2004. 18cm. Pp.144. 20 photos. Paperback. The elder is a tree or bush (or even a weed) for which humanity has found a use for each and every part: the leaf, the bark, the wood or branch, the flower, the berries or fruit. Some of these functions are both mythic and grounded in superstition: that the elder encourgaes the fertility of cattle for instance; or its relation to witchcraft; or its place in Celtic folklore. Others are more nearly medicinal: it was an essential to classical and medieval physicians. And, of course, it may be eaten or drunk. The flowers lend their fragrance to gooseberries, or are sensational as a Spring fritter. The berries are wonderful as ice-cream, or as wine. Ria Loohuizen has pursued the elder into every corner of history, literature and kitchen usefulness. She claims that this is only the second book on the tree (the first being published in 1644). In an evocative text, she explores its meaning to early physicians, its place in mythology and folklore, its occurance in literature and gives maximum exposure to recipes for medicaments, sweet dishes and drinks. Here you may find how to make elder ointments or lotions to ward off rheumatism as well as chilblains. And detailed instructions for elderflower champagne, or elderflower syrup, or elderberry wine. Then there are recipes for tarts, fools, jams, jellies, fritters, glazes and vinegars as well as details obout the Jew's Ear fungus which grows only on the elder tree. This book was first published in Holland in 2002, this the first English edition, translated by the author. Ria Loohuizen has lived in America and Spain and is now living in Amsterdam. She is a translator of prose and poetry from English and Spanish as well as a published author of cookery books about the chestnut, wild mushrooms and the quince.

Trees,  Dendrology,  Arboriculture,  Caprifoliaceae,  Sambucus  Nigra,  Elder,  Elderberry,  Cookery,  Wine,  Folklore,  Elder  Recipes