Elderberries: A Natural Remedy for Cooler Months
Elderberries are a staple in my herbal remedy kit for the colder months, thanks to their immune-boosting properties and delicious flavor. I use them to create elderberry marshmallows, tea, kombucha, and an easy-to-make syrup for a healthful boost.
Benefits of Elderberry
The dried berries from the Sambucus nigra plant are packed with antioxidants, aiding in combating colds and flu. My preferred method of utilizing elderberries is by making a simple, effective syrup.
Research indicates that black elderberries (Sambucus nigra) can help fend off these ailments and potentially reduce recovery time. Personally, I have found elderberries helpful in easing discomfort during minor illnesses.
The Power of Elderberries
Elderberries are loaded with vitamins A, B, and C. They naturally stimulate the immune system. Studies by Israeli researchers highlight how the complex sugars in elderberries support immune health, potentially halving recovery time or better.
Dr. Madeleine Mumcuoglu of Hadassah-Hebrew University found that elderberry prevents viruses from infiltrating healthy cells in the respiratory tract. Her clinical trials revealed that patients saw improvement in 24 hours, and most recovered within three days. Placebo patients took up to 6 days.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe With Honey
Elderberry syrup is an excellent way to reap the concentrated benefits of elderberries, and it’s tasty! My recipe uses elderberry concentrate with herbs like cinnamon and ginger, plus raw honey for added immunity. If honey isn’t an option for you, substitution suggestions are listed below.
Recipe Ingredients:
– Grated ginger
– Ground cinnamon
– Ground cloves
– Dried elderberries
– Raw honey
Steps to Make Elderberry Syrup:
1. Gather your ingredients: grated ginger, cinnamon, cloves, elderberries, and raw honey. Cinnamon sticks and whole cloves also work.
2. Pour water into a saucepan and add elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Boil, then uncover and simmer for 30 minutes until reduced by half.
3. Remove from heat, cool until lukewarm, then mash the berries.
4. Strain through a strainer or cheesecloth into a jar. Discard elderberries.
5. Add honey to the mixture when lukewarm and stir well.
6. Pour syrup into a mason jar or bottle.
7. Enjoy your homemade elderberry syrup! Store in the refrigerator and use daily for immune support.
Why Make Your Own Elderberry Syrup?
Making elderberry syrup at home is cost-effective. Store-bought options can cost $15 or more for a small amount, while this recipe yields 16 ounces economically. Plus, you can customize it to fit your preferences. Don’t have elderberries? Consider pre-made elderberry gummies or syrup, though they might cost more. Fresh or frozen elderberries can be used, too—just double the amount.
Understanding Elderberry Syrup
Elderberry syrup tastes slightly sour like grape juice, and the honey adds sweetness. It’s thinner than sugar-based store versions, so don’t be surprised by the consistency.
Differences Between Elderberry Syrup and Juice
The recipe creates a concentrated elderberry blend with honey, similar to herbal syrups made traditionally with sugar. Elderberry juice is simply the juice of fresh berries.
Shelf Life of Homemade Elderberry Syrup
Storage affects how long the syrup lasts. Stored in a canning jar with an airtight seal, it can last months in the fridge, typically two weeks otherwise. Freeze unused portions or ice cubes for later.
Fresh Elderberry Tips
Grow your own elderberry bush or harvest fresh elderberries with guidance from a local herbalist. Only use berries, as stems and leaves can be toxic.
Where to Order Elderberries
I order elderberries in bulk from a reliable online source. They tend to sell out in the fall, so order early. Find wildcrafted or organic options online, or try a kit from Kombucha Kamp.
Uses and Dosage of Elderberry Syrup
We take it daily for prevention, increasing the dosage when sick. It’s used for immune support throughout the year. Elderberries add unique flavor in recipes, like panna cotta or toppings for desserts.
Daily Elderberry Syrup Intake
Consult an herbalist or natural healthcare provider for personal dosage. I consume a teaspoon a day and give half to my kids. During illness, I increase this amount.
Elderberry Ingredients and Alternatives
I use raw local honey, fresh ginger, and sometimes powdered elderberries. Adjust the ingredients as needed—use 1/2 cup powdered elderberries if whole ones aren’t available.
Substituting Honey
For babies under 1 or those avoiding sweeteners, substitutes include:
– Maple syrup or nutrient-rich molasses instead of honey.
– No sweetener, creating quicker-to-consume elderberry juice.
– Make an elderberry tincture with alcohol, if not for children.
Reusing Elderberries
I don’t recommend reusing the berries; boiling and mashing remove their nutrients. Consuming large amounts might not be safe. Explore elderberry kombucha, tea, and gummies for varied uses.
Medically Reviewed
This article was reviewed by Dr. Scott Soerries, MD. Consult your doctor for personal medical advice.
Have you tried elderberry? Will you try this recipe? Share your natural remedies for warding off illness.
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