If there’s one staple I always keep on hand during cold and flu season, it’s elderberry syrup. This deep purple, immune-boosting powerhouse has been used for centuries to help fight off sickness, reduce inflammation, and support overall wellness. While you can find store-bought versions, they’re often filled with unnecessary fillers and preservatives. Nothing beats a homemade batch made with fresh ingredients- especially when you can use homegrown ingredients and raw local honey for an extra health boost!
Why Elderberry Syrup?
Elderberries (from the Sambucus nigra plant) are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and antiviral properties. Studies have shown that elderberry syrup can help reduce the duration and severity of colds and flu by supporting the immune system. It’s also known to:
•Reduce inflammation – The high levels of flavonoids in elderberries help calm inflammation in the body.
•Soothe respiratory issues – Elderberry syrup can help with congestion, coughs, and sinus infections.
•Support heart health – The antioxidants in elderberries may help lower blood pressure and improve circulation.
•Aid digestion – Elderberries have mild diuretic and detoxifying properties, which can support gut health.
And let’s not forget raw local honey- it’s loaded with enzymes, antibacterial properties, and immune-boosting benefits of its own. Plus, using honey from your own region can help with seasonal allergies! Fresh ginger adds another layer of support, as it’s known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and digestive benefits.
Homemade Elderberry Syrup Recipe
This is my go-to elderberry syrup recipe, made with homegrown ginger and raw local honey. It’s easy to make, tastes amazing, and keeps in the fridge for months.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup dried elderberries (or 2 cups fresh)
• 4 cups filtered water
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely chopped (homegrown if you have it!)
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional, but great for added warmth and circulation support)
• 3 whole cloves (optional, for extra immune-boosting properties)
• 1 cup raw local honey
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the elderberries, water, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
2. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by nearly half.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a bowl, pressing out as much liquid as possible.
5. Once the liquid has cooled to lukewarm (not hot-so you don’t kill the beneficial properties of the honey), stir in the raw honey until fully dissolved.
6. Pour the syrup into a glass jar and store in the fridge. It should last for 2-3 months.
How to Use:
• Daily wellness support: Take 1 teaspoon per day for kids and 1 tablespoon per day for adults.
• At the first sign of illness: Take the same dosage up to 3 times a day.
• Other uses: Drizzle over pancakes, stir into tea, or mix into sparkling water for a refreshing immunity-boosting drink.
Making your own elderberry syrup is not only easy but also a great way to control the quality of the ingredients you’re putting into your body. Plus, there’s something satisfying about crafting your own herbal remedies from homegrown and locally sourced ingredients.
Do you make your own elderberry syrup? Let me know in the comments if you have any favorite add-ins or ways to use it!
Comments