Elderberry Syrup: a classic herbal remedy for wellness

In a recent post I shared with you the amazing qualities of Elderberries. In a nut shell, they help to stop a virus from replicating and therefore lessen the symptoms and the duration of a cold or flu, boost your immune system, help to reduce inflammation, and are brimming with anti-oxidants. 

Last week Elissa (one of my besties and fellow herb enthusiast) and I made Elderberry Syrup. Not only is this remedy delicious, it is also wonderful at keeping you well during the colder months and fighting off those yucky viral symptoms.

I have modified this recipe from one I received in my herbal medicine training from The Herbal Academy (their courses are wonderful by the way, so if you're interested in herbalism I suggest you check them out). 

Elderberry Syrup Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup fresh or ½ cup dried Elderberries

4 cups water

¼ cup fresh ginger rhizome, chopped

4-6 whole cloves 

3 sticks cinnamon

1½ cups raw honey

Directions

1. In a large, covered stock pot, bring the water, berries, fresh ginger root, cloves, and cinnamon sticks to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat and simmer until the liquid is reduced by half and 2 cups remains in the pot.
3. Allow the mixture to cool just enough to handle.
4. Strain the herbs and return the liquid to the pot.
5. Add honey and stir to dissolve.
6. Pour the syrup into glass jars, label, date, and refrigerate.
7. Suggested usage for adults is 1 tablespoon up to 3x/day and for children is 1 teaspoon up to 3x/day.

Download the Recipe card