A look back into the dark ages and the lives of the pagan Anglo-Saxon

click here to go back to herb index

Elm


Elven Ulmus campestris

Elm tree

Embla, the first woman was made from an Elm, and given the three gifts of wod, divine breath, and form by Woden, Willa, and W?oh (Odin, Villi, and V?). Therefore the elm symbolizes the feminine principal in life. It is said to be a favorite tree of Elves and they are said to gather beneath its limbs often. The elm was also said to ward against lightning, and to be a storehouse of ancient wisdom. It makes a powerful love charm when combined with ash.

The leaves of the elm were once used in poultices to reduce swelling, and on open wounds to help heal them.