A delicious and immune boosting treat
What is elderberry syrup? A liquid supplement that is made with dried berries of the Sambucus Nigra plant. They are naturally high in immune-boosting compounds that are specifically shown to help beat the cold and flu more quickly.
What does elderberry syrup help with?
Help prevent or speed recovery of a common cold or the flu.
Boost the immune system with naturally occurring vitamins such as A, B and C.
Making a homemade version is simple and saves you a lot of money! And it ensures you get great quality ingredients.
INGREDIENTS
4 cups water
⅔ cup dried elderberries (or 1 1/3 cups if you use fresh or frozen)
2 TBSP fresh ginger (grated), (or 3/4 Tbl. if you use dry ginger)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (or 1 cinnamon stick)
½ tsp ground cloves
1 cup raw honey
Instructions:
Combine water, elderberries, ginger, cinnamon and cloves in a pot.
Simmer on low until the liquid begins to reduce (usually 20-30 minutes).
Remove from the heat and let cool a bit.
Gently smash berries (get all that goodness released into the liquid).
Pour through a strainer into a glass or stainless steel bowl. Discard berries.
When the liquid has cooled to lukewarm, add the honey and stir until dissolved.
Store liquid in a glass jar. I like to use a funnel to get it in the jar.
Store the jar in the fridge to keep it fresh. Kids take a teaspoonful daily and adults a tablespoon a day, to boost your immune system. If you have a cold or the flu, take several servings a day.
Common Questions about Elderberry Syrup
How long does elderberry syrup last?
To be on the safe side, I would say 2 weeks. (Though I have personally kept and used mine much longer.)
Do you have to use honey in the recipe?
I use raw, local honey which has amazing benefits - including helping with allergy symptoms. Some recommend not giving honey to children under two. You can leave the honey out, but it won’t taste great. You could also sub with maple syrup, but this does change the flavor.
Should I buy organic ingredients?
I would recommend organic ingredients and filtered water for this recipe.
Let us know if you make it and what you think.
Resources:
Disclaimer:
This is not intended to be medical advice. If you have questions about your health, please speak with your doctor (or better yet, multiple practitioners)!
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