The Elderberry - The Wise Elders of the Forest.

The Grandparents of our time came through years of tumultuous economics, the rise and fall of leaders, prime ministers, presidents, the threat of communism, war, famine, scarcity and constant terror from the media. Societal changes that have impacted millions, and have brought upon the innate ability to adapt, adjust and carry on with solid resilience.

These changes have all equated to the wisdom our Elders carry.

The same goes for the spirits of the trees. They have lived for generations far surpassing our own bloodlines. They have witnessed thousands and even millions of years of constant change throughout the country, the contintent and the world. Feeling the ripples of destruction from across the oceans, witnessing the wild winds of change by the tiniest of movements within the tectonic plates. Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Volcanoes, Meteor strikes, Hurricanes, Tornadoes and extreme weather conditions affected the whole undercurrent of the roots systems across the globe.

Because everything is connected.

But what does this have to do with the Elderberry?

Humans have survived on this planet for what some speculate as thousands of years, perhaps 12,000, perhaps millions of years!

But with all of this destruction, challenge and change, could it be that our forests and wilderness are responsible for keeping us alive all this time?

Could it be that the wild spirits of the forest have been protecting us humans for all these years?

How could the spirits of the forest protect us?

Everything is energy, this is the ultimate, fundamental lesson we are taught at school. If everything is energy, then our Elders have been existing alongside us, on different frequencies, making changes within the forest according to what we need.

Are you paying attention to what you need?

The Earth provides what we need. In order to acknowledge what our bodies need, we need to learn to listen to our "In-Tuition." But thats a blog for another day.

Let's talk about the Elderberry...One of the most potent protectors of the forest, working hard to ensure we are nourished, fit and well, to be able to exist.

Elderberries (from the Sambucus nigra plant, most often used for syrups, teas, and tinctures) are surprisingly nutrient-dense.

They don’t just offer antioxidants – they also contain a range of vitamins and minerals.

Here’s a breakdown of the main ones:

Vitamins in Elderberries

• Vitamin C – high levels (important for immune health, skin, and collagen formation).

• Vitamin A – supports vision, skin, and immune function.

• Vitamin B6 – involved in metabolism and nervous system health.

• Folate (B9) – helps with DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.

• Other B vitamins – small amounts of riboflavin (B2), pantothenic acid (B5).

• Vitamin E – antioxidant, supports skin and cardiovascular health (in small amounts).

Minerals in Elderberries

• Potassium – important for heart health, blood pressure, and fluid balance.

• Calcium – supports bones and teeth.

• Iron – helps red blood cells carry oxygen.

• Phosphorus – works with calcium for bones and energy production.

• Copper – essential for energy metabolism and collagen formation.

• Zinc – supports the immune system and wound healing.

Other Notable Compounds

• Anthocyanins & flavonoids, powerful antioxidants (give elderberries their deep purple-black color).

• Dietary fibre – supports digestion and gut health.

In fact, Elderberries are particularly rich in antioxidants, they contain more flavonoids than blueberries, cranberries, or goji berries.

Isn't this just a prime example of how our Mother Earth is providing for us. With each season comes a new fruit, vegetable, flower that corresponds to our own biology. Giving us exactly what we need at each time of the year.

Have you ever tried elderberry syrup or tea? I’d love to hear your experience in the comments below.

We made our own Elderberry Gummy Sweets. Perfect for kids and without any nasty fillers, binder or additives.

---

Every month we open the doors to our professional Massage Therapy Training Courses — but spaces are limited to just a few students, to ensure each person receives the highest level of guidance and support.

Are you feeling the call to massage therapy? Do you want to learn the art of bodywork, not just as a technique, but as a pathway to truly healing others? Our courses are designed to take you deeper, combining the foundations of anatomy and physiology with the wisdom of energy medicine — so you understand not only how the body works, but how to release blockages and restore balance on every level.

Unlike many programmes that are heavy on theory and light on practice, we follow the 50/50 model: 50% theory to ground you in knowledge, and 50% hands-on practical training so you graduate with the confidence to begin working on clients right away.

During your training, you’ll also receive your Reiki Level 1 Attunement, connecting you to the universal life force energy — allowing you to channel healing through your hands as you work with the body, mind, and spirit of your clients. You won’t just be learning massage; you’ll be stepping into the role of a healer, activating your intuition, and learning to sense the subtle energies that surround every living being.

🌿 By the end of the course, you’ll have the skills, knowledge, and spiritual connection to offer your clients a truly transformational healing experience.

✨ If you feel the call, now is the time.

For more information and to reserve your space, simply fill out the form on this page and Alyra will be in touch with you personally.

https://www.thenwo.co.uk/courses

Author

Alyra Beaumont