Forage and Make Elderberry Cordial & Blackberry Vinegar
Fancy an early autumn hedgerow foraging course? Join Christine from the Hedgerow Apolthecary on a forage through the Stansted Estate in pursuit of Elderberries and Blackberries – as well as many other seasonal delights that you can learn about.
The Elder Tree has long been used as a countryside medicine chest. This common hedgerow tree is steeped in folklore and legend with tales of witches and superstition.
The flowers make a truly wonderful summer cordial and can be made into a fragrant tea to help combat hay fever. An ointment made from the leaves is good for bruises, sprains and chilblains. Autumn brings an abundance of dark red berries rich in Vitamin C and anti-oxidants that can be made into a soothing cough and flu cordial. This is best taken hot with a splash of rum; it will certainly make you feel better!
We will be foraging for Elderberries in the magnificent grounds of Stansted House, identifying seasonal wild flowers and discovering their folk and medicinal uses. Then, we will return to the Farm Shop to watch Christine, from The Hedgerow Apothecary, demonstrate how to make your own Elderberry cordial (with a bottle to take home.)
But that’s not all….
Bramble season will be underway so we will also be learning how to make some delicious blackberry vinegar.
Brambles long spikey shoots naturally form arches which were used in folk ceremonies in England to treat rheumatism, hernias and boils.
Long used as a gargle for sore throats, this fruity vinegar can also be mixed with olive oil for an unusual salad dressing.
The course is £20 each and runs from 10.30 – 12.30 on Saturday 13th September.