Elhaz is a Rune of protection as well as connection with the supernatural realms.
Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem
Eolh-secg eard hæfþ oftust on fenne
wexeð on wature, wundaþ grimme,
blode breneð beorna gehwylcne
ðe him ænigne onfeng gedeþ.
Elk’s sedge has its home most often in the fen,
it waxes in the water and grimly wounds
and reddens with blood
any man who, in any way, tries to grasp it.
What is commonly referred to as Elk’s sedge these days is a North American sedge species (Carex geyeri) that, unlike most sedges, actually grows on land. As the poem clearly demonstrates, the kind of sedge that the poet had in mind was an aquatic sedge like the Greater Pond-sedge (Carex riparia) that is very common in modern day Great Britain. What clearly fascinated the author of the poem as it aptly described the function of the corresponding Rune is the fact that it has its roots in the earth (the past), grows through water (the material world) and then flowers above the surface (the spiritual world).
So in the quest for Self-transformation this Rune can help the Seeker to connect to higher aspects of the Self. The shape of the Rune Stave very much reminds us of a position that is assumed all over the world when trying to contact the divine, an upright posture with the arms stretched out sideways and upwards towards the sky.
Magically the Rune offers us protection. Unlike Thurisaz it has no real capacity to attack as well but simply protects whatever is entrusted to its care. It can be used to fend off unwanted thoughts and behaviors as well as real life threats.