Elfshot

Elfshot or elf-shot is a medical condition described in Anglo-Saxon medical texts, notably Wið færstice, and believed to be caused by invisible elves shooting invisible arrows at a person or animal, causing sudden shooting pains localised to a particular area of the body.[1] Modern dignoses might include rheumatism, arthritis, muscle stitches or cramps. Similar concepts existed in other northern European cultures.

Belief, or at least references to, elfshot persisted into the 20th century,[2] also in Scotland, though more modern elves seem to have concentrated their attentions on animals.[3] In rural areas country folk would sometimes find small arrowheads (the remains of Neolithic or Mesolithic flints, or naturally-occurring spear-shaped stones). The prevention or curing of Elfshot comes from using a charm against the sudden stitch, the three plants used in the cure are feverfew, red nettles and waybread. All have vaguely spear-shaped leaves, which may have suggested their use as a remedy for pains attributed to elf-arrows.[4]

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ Jolly, 19
  2. ↑ Hereot
  3. ↑ The Fairy Folk attack!, Orkneyjar
  4. ↑ Hereot

References

http://www.wiltshireheritage.org.uk/uploads/images/149/l_4elf_shot.JPG

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