Homemade Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry syrup has so many benefits especially this time of year when the cold and flu season is gearing up. We should do everything we can to keep our immune system strong to combat whatever is coming our way!

The BENEFITS:

• Boost the immune system

• Fight and protect against bacterial infections

• Fight and protect against viral infections

• Reduce the symptoms and duration of a cold or the flu

• helps clear sinus infections

• has natural diuretic effects and promotes bowel movements

• anti-inflammatory properties

• anti-carcinogenic properties

• eases symptoms of allergies

• high in antioxidants

• high in vitamin A, which makes it great for healthy skin

As you see there are many benefits of taking elderberry syrup daily especially this time of year. The only negative thing I have to say is that it is EXPENSIVE. I know, you've heard it before that someone made something and it was easy. Well to be honest with you, if it's not easy, I'm not doing it! I don't have time. I have two kids with very busy schedules and I also work. I'm not about to commit to something that's going to put me in the weeds in the kitchen! So if I've made this, you can be clear that it is simple. The other great thing about making it, is that it cost a fraction of the store bought syrup. I bought about 1.5 cups of elderberries for only $5. I had the rest of the ingredients in my cabinet.

How To Make Elderberry Syrup

The first step will be to get some dried elderberries. I purchased mine from a Sprouts Farmers Market. Anywhere that sells in bulk where you can get just what you need. Wholefoods would probably have too or you can even order on Amazon.

Bring your water to a boil and simmer your dried elderberries and spices for about 45 minutes. Then go do whatever you need to get done for the next 45 minutes!

Once the liquid is reduced by half, you drain the liquid. I use a fine mesh strainer I bought from Walmart which makes it super easy. Use the back of a wooden spoon to get all the liquid from the berries. Let it cool and then add your honey. Store in an air tight container (I used a mason jar).

For adults, take 1 tablespoon daily and for children, 1 teaspoon daily. If you or your children are experiencing sickness or feel something coming on, that dose should be repeated four times daily.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup dried elderberries

• 3 cups water

• 1 teaspoon dried cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick

• 1 teaspoon dried cloves or 4 whole cloves or 1 drop clove essential oil

• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger or 1 teaspoon dried ginger or 1 drop ginger essential oil

• 1 cup raw honey

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring the elderberries, water, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger to a boil.

2. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the liquid has reduced by half, about 45 minutes.

3. Allow the liquid to cool, and then drain the liquid using a fine mesh strainer or cheese cloth.

4. Press all liquid out of the berries using the back of a wooden spoon.

5. Add the raw honey and mix well.

6. Store in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to two months.

Stay Healthy!

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”