The most commonly used Western varieties of rowan are Sorbus aucuparia, S. americana, and Pyrus aucuparia. In the East, S. phaushanensis and S. hupehensis are more typically used. Often called mountain ash, it is not a true ash(Fraxinus ornus), even though it has similar leaves.

For thousands of years, these trees have grown in Scandinavia, High in the Balkans, Northern Asia, and Newfoundland.

The rowan is a sacred Tree of Life in Celtic mythology. The entire shrub/tree is useful, including the bark, leaves, and fruit (berries).

Rowan berries are considered best used for diarrhea and hemorrhoids as well as to treat scurvy and malaria. The bark can also be used to treat diarrhea and as a douche to treat leucorrhea. A gargle can be made from the berries and is used to treat sore throats.

Find out more about rowan and its medicinal, culinary, magical, and sacred properties.