Elderberry Syrup
Elderberry syrup
It may be 87 degrees today in Chicagoland (It’s October 3!) but no doubt cold and flu season is among us. The best way to combat a sickness, is prevention. If you haven’t taken a peek at my Immunity Guide, go ahead and read through that HERE and it will give you all of my favorite immune supporting habits, as well as my supplement recommendations for supporting your immune system, and then what to do once you get sick.
One of my favorite ways to support my family’s immunity is homemade elderberry syrup! If you are new to the Elderberry craze, it’s basically a super berry that is rich in flavonoids which contain many antioxidants that work to keep your immune system strong and resilient, helps to reduce oxidative stress in your body, is an anti- inflammatory and is packed with Vitamin C & fiber. In a nutshell, it is a great herbal support that helps fight/prevent cold & flu and boosts overall wellness. Bonus points that it tastes great so the kids have no problems taking it!
Elderberry plant
Recipe:
What you’ll need:
¾ cup dried organic Elderberries
1 TBS ginger root (or 1 tsp dried)
1 cinnamon stick (or 1 tsp ground)
1 tsp dried clove
3 cups water
1 cup raw honey (can use Manuka too)
Mason Jar
Directions:
- Combine all the ingredients except the honey in a pot, and simmer over med/low heat for 40-45 minutes.
- Once it has reduced, remove from heat and filter through a mesh strainer, using a fork to press all the liquid out of the berries into the glass jar.
- Mix in 1 cup of raw honey.
This is where the original recipes ends. I added another cup of water and repeated the whole process again and added it to the same jar!
Once the syrup has cooled, seal and store in the refrigerator for up to two months. It will mold so be sure to use an airtight container.
I hope you try this and that your kids don’t give you grief for taking it daily. Mine like the tart taste. I had heard you should only take this 5 days a week for fear of building a “resistance.” I have no clue if that is true or not, but don’t feel bad if you miss a day here and there .
If you try this, please let me know how you like it!
In health,
Stephenie