Saturday, December 27, 2014

Homemade Elderberry Syrup

The last family wedding was a big one. The kids were both in the wedding, as well as Paul. Simon was only 3 weeks old. Of course, two days before the wedding, I got a cold.  I was with all my sisters getting our nails done and the mother-of-the-bride saw that I was not in my normal condition and asked me if I had been taking elderberry syrup. Elderberry what?

On my way home, I picked some up at the local pharmacy. It was pretty pricy, but from what it sounded like, the price would be worth it. I had a few doses and by the time the wedding came, I felt great! That was now four months ago and that little tiny bottle is finally gone. Time to make some from scratch, save a little money and test out a homemade recipe!

This past week, the whole house has had a little sore throat or stuffy nose but taking the elderberry syrup has kept the colds from amounting to anything. I love this stuff!



Elderberries: Elderberries contain a lot of biofavanoids, which can help boost your immune system. They are also an anti-inflammatory which reduces congestion and swelling. Taking elderberries helps shorten your cold and flu by a few days while not letting the symptoms get as strong. Some people actually take elderberry syrup preventatively so the cold and flu never sets in. I ordered my elderberries from Mount Rose Herbs.

Cinnamon: The combination of honey and cinnamon has long been used to fight colds and flu. There is no scientific evidence to back it up, but since the ancient Chinese used it and it has stayed popular until current day, I'm a believer!

Ginger: I love ginger for calming bellies but it also is great at fighting colds by keeling your immune system strong.

Honey: As you may know, I love honey and its amazing healing elements. Honey helps suppress a coughs, keeping honey in its raw form also provides stronger healing by not killing off its natural minerals and enzymes. While it's not essential, try to pick us some raw local honey.


Homemade Elderberry Syrup

Makes 2 cups

3/4 c dried elderberries
3 c water
1 t cinnamon or 1 stick
1 1/2 t grated ginger
3/4 c raw honey


In a pot, boil water, elderberries, cinnamon and ginger. Keep it at a slow rolling boil for about 45 minutes or until it reduces by half. Remove from heat and strain out the berries. Let it cool down for about 30 minutes before adding in the honey.

Dosage: 1/2 to 1 tablespoon for adults and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon for children. Children under the age of one should not take honey. If interested, you can substitute honey with blackstrap molasses

Keep refrigerated in a container. This syrup is sure to last for a couple months.


Homemade Elderberry Syrup

Natural remedies do not work for everyone so consult your physician for any concerns. I am far from a doctor and I don't pretend to be one on the internet. Elderberries have worked for me and my family and I hope they work for you!



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