How To Make Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry syrup is an herbal preparation made from the berries of the elder (sambucus) plant. This preparation has a long history as a folk medicine for boosting the immune system and as a cold and flu remedy.* More recently there have been several scientific studies that have corroborated it’s healing powers.

Elderberry syrup is one of the easiest herbal preparations you can make and it’s much cheaper than purchasing store-bought, so I wanted to share an easy recipe so people can make it themselves at home. I’ve always found that medicine made by hand with love to be some of the most powerful.

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Elderberry Syrup

An immune boosting folk remedy

Materials

• 2 cups dried elderberries
• 4 cups water distilled, purified, or spring
• 2-3 tsp fresh or dried ginger root optional
• 1 cinnamon stick optional
• 1 cup honey raw organic honey is best
• 1 cup vodka or brandy optional to increase shelf life

Instructions

• Combine berries and herbs with cold water in pot and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat and allow herbs to simmer for about 30 minutes or until the liquid reduces by half
• Remove from heat and let steep about an hour.
• Strain berries and herbs using cheesecloth or a muslin or nut bag and squeeze out liquid. (Be careful, liquid will be hot!).
• Once liquid has cooled to just above room temperature, add honey and stir.
• If using alcohol, add here and stir.
• Bottle in a sterilized glass.

Notes

Adults take 1 tsp a day during cold and flu season, or 1 Tbsp every 2-3 hours when actively sick. It also makes a nice treat added to a glass of cold seltzer. This will keep in the fridge several months or longer if prepared with alcohol.

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.

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