Elaeagnus angustifolia | Russian Olive

Botanical Overview:

• Family: Elaeagnaceae

• Common Names: Russian Olive, Oleaster, Silver Berry

• Plant Type: Deciduous small tree or large shrub

• Native Range: Central Asia, Eastern Europe; naturalized in North America

• Key Identifiers:

  • Silvery, lance-shaped leaves covered in dense, silvery scales

  • Small, fragrant, yellowish flowers appearing in late spring or early summer

  • Produces small, olive-like fruits that are yellowish to reddish-brown and edible when ripe

  • Thorny branches contribute to its dense, shrubby growth habit

Properties:

• Active Compounds: Flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, carotenoids, and vitamin C

• Pharmacological Actions: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective

Distribution and Habitat:

• Grows in riparian zones, sandy soils, and disturbed areas; tolerates drought and saline soils

• Widely distributed in Central Asia, Europe, and invasive in parts of North America, where it often outcompetes native vegetation

Medicinal Uses:

• Cardiovascular Health: Traditionally used to support heart function and regulate blood pressure

• Anti-inflammatory: Infusions and extracts used to treat joint pain, swelling, and fever

• Wound Healing: Applied as a poultice to promote healing of minor wounds and reduce inflammation

• Digestive Health: The fruits and infusions of the leaves have been used to alleviate diarrhea and improve digestion

• Antioxidant Benefits: Due to its high flavonoid content, it has been used to combat oxidative stress

Psychoactive Properties and Effects:

• Psychoactive Nature:

  • Elaeagnus angustifolia is not traditionally considered psychoactive

  • Used in traditional medicine as a calming remedy, but this is likely more somatic than directly psychoactive

Magical Correspondences and Uses:

• Element: Earth

• Planetary Association: Venus

• Magical Uses:

  • Associated with protection and abundance, symbolizing resilience and adaptability

  • Used in rituals to foster healing and emotional stability

  • The silvery leaves are sometimes used as offerings or in charms to invoke blessings and attract prosperity

  • Fruits can be incorporated into rituals for grounding and connection to nature

Folklore and Mythology:

• Symbol of Resilience: In Central Asia and the Middle East, the tree is admired for its ability to thrive in harsh environments, often seen as a symbol of survival and endurance

• Traditional Reverence: Its fragrant flowers and edible fruits made it a valued plant in ancient times, often associated with abundance and sustenance

• Cultural Importance: Used in traditional Persian medicine and mentioned in folklore as a tree of protection and fertility