The Rowan Tree: Nutritional Value, Medicinal Properties, and Folklore

The Rowan Tree: Nutritional Value, Medicinal Properties, and Folklore

The Rowan tree, often known as the "mountain ash," is a beloved tree with a long history rooted in culture, folklore, and medicine. With its fiery red berries and delicate, feather-like leaves, this tree has fascinated people for centuries. In this blog, we will explore the nutritional facts of the Rowan tree, its medicinal properties, myths, and folklore, as well as some interesting facts about this storied plant.


Nutritional Value of Rowan Berries

Rowan berries, though not commonly consumed in the modern diet, have historically been an important food source in various parts of the world. They are small, bright red, and bitter, but can be used in culinary practices when prepared correctly.

  • Vitamin C: Rowan berries are rich in vitamin C, making them a traditional remedy for scurvy and a great immunity booster.
  • Antioxidants: These berries contain a range of antioxidants, particularly flavonoids and carotenoids, which help combat oxidative stress and support overall health.
  • Fiber: As with most berries, Rowan berries offer a good source of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting gut health.
  • Low in Calories: Like many fruits, rowan berries are low in calories, making them a healthy addition to a diet, especially in the form of jams, jellies, or drinks.

Rowan berries are unfortunately not edible raw because of the levels of parascorbic acid which can cause nausea and stomach ache. Additionally they are also too bitter and astringent to eat, cooking, drying or freezing will not only make them less bitter but also edible. Therefore once processed, they can be used in recipes for wine, jelly, and sauces, often paired with other fruits to balance their tartness. 


Medicinal Properties of the Rowan Tree

The medicinal properties of the Rowan tree have been recognized for centuries. Though the berries, leaf and flowers were traditionally used in folk medicine, modern science has confirmed some of these benefits.

  1. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects: Rowan berries are rich in flavonoids, which possess potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These compounds help reduce inflammation in the body, promote healthy cell function, and fight free radicals that contribute to chronic diseases.

  2. Digestive Aid: Rowan berries and bark were traditionally used as a remedy for digestive issues. The astringent properties of the berries can help with diarrhea and other gastrointestinal ailments. Rowan berry tea has been consumed to soothe upset stomachs and improve digestion. Additionally they increase bile production, regulate metabolism and have detoxifying properties. 

  3. Cold and Flu Remedy: Due to their high vitamin C content, Rowan berries have long been associated with warding off colds and other respiratory infections. In traditional European medicine, they were brewed into teas or syrups to alleviate symptoms of colds, coughs, and bronchitis.

  4. Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties: The Rowan tree’s leaves and berries contain compounds with antibacterial, anti septic and antifungal properties. Historically, these were used to treat minor infections, wounds, and skin irritations. 

  5. Urinary Health: Some herbal traditions suggest using Rowan berries as a diuretic to help with urinary tract infections and to cleanse the kidneys. They were believed to flush out toxins from the body.

In many Eastern European shops you can find dried Rowan berries in "Forest Teas". These tea blends consist of black tea and dried berries like Rowan, Hawthorn, Blackberry, Rose hip and Blueberry. 

Usually the flowers and leaves are used to make medicinal teas, syrups, tinctures and added into a bath. Traditional recipes of Rowan leaf and flowers: 

Pour 500 ml of boiling water over 2 tablespoons of flowers and leaves or 3 tablespoons of ground fruit; leave for 30 minutes; strain. The fruit infusion can be sweetened with honey. Drink 3-4 times a day, 200 ml each. 


Myths and Folklore Associated with the Rowan Tree

The Rowan tree is steeped in myth and folklore, particularly in Europe and the British Isles, where it has been considered a symbol of protection, magic, and mystery.

  1. A Tree of Protection: In Celtic mythology, the Rowan tree was revered as a protective tree. It was often planted near homes, farms, and churches to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. It was believed that the tree had the power to protect against witchcraft and bad luck.

  2. The Tree of Life: In Norse mythology, the Rowan tree played a significant role as a tree of life. It was believed that the first woman was created from a Rowan tree, and it was often associated with the Norse god Thor. According to one myth, the Rowan tree saved Thor from being swept away by a river, making it a symbol of resilience and protection.

  3. Warding Off Witches: In Scotland, the Rowan tree was commonly planted near homes to keep witches away. Its bright red berries were thought to symbolize the life-giving blood of the Earth, and their vibrant color was believed to repel evil. The five-pointed star (pentagram) found on the base of the berries also strengthened this belief.

  4. Magical Staffs and Talismans: The wood of the Rowan tree was often used to craft magical staffs, wands, and amulets. These objects were said to enhance psychic abilities and provide protection during rituals or when traveling. Rowan branches were carried by travelers for protection, especially during long journeys.

  5. A Tree of Faeries: In Irish folklore, the Rowan tree was often linked to the faerie realm. It was considered bad luck to harm a Rowan tree because it could upset the faeries who were thought to live among its branches. In some stories, the tree was a portal to the mystical world of the fae.


Interesting Facts About the Rowan Tree

  • Botanical Identity: The Rowan tree belongs to the Sorbus aucuparia species and is part of the rose family (Rosaceae), related to apples and pears.

  • Birds Love Rowan Berries: Despite being bitter to humans, Rowan berries are a favorite food for many birds, especially in the colder months. The name “aucuparia” comes from the Latin word for bird-catching, as the berries were traditionally used as bait to lure birds into traps.

  • Rowan Trees in Christianity: In Christian tradition, the Rowan tree is sometimes called the "Tree of the Cross" because its leaves form a cross-like shape. The red berries were seen as a symbol of Christ’s blood, further enhancing its protective symbolism.

  • Hardy Nature: Rowan trees are hardy, growing in rocky, high-altitude environments where few other trees can survive. This resilience has added to the tree’s reputation for protection and endurance in difficult circumstances.


Conclusion

The Rowan tree’s rich history spans nutritional, medicinal, and mythical domains. With its vitamin-packed berries, healing properties, and longstanding role in folklore, it remains a symbol of resilience and protection. Whether used to make jelly, as a traditional remedy, or in rituals to ward off ill fortune, the Rowan tree continues to enchant and offer benefits to those who respect its place in nature.

Disclaimer: The materials on this are for education purpose only. I am not responsible for misapplication, misinterpretation of any content on this site. Always consult your doctor before consuming herbs

If you want to schedule a consultation, advice or selection of herbs and treatments, write me an email at infonewmoonbotanicals@gmail.com



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