Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) syrup is one of my go to remedies during winter. These berries have been shown to have antiviral effects and shorten the duration of viral illnesses, like influenza, by four days! And with less side effects than prescription antivirals.
Benefits of Elderberries
These nutritious berries are packed with vitamins A, B, and C along with antioxidants to boost your immune system. It has been shown to increase the production of inflammatory cytokines, thus activating a healthy immune system. In fact, one study found that it even helps to reduce and prevent biofilm formation of antibiotic resistant bacteria, such as MRSA, in soft skin tissue infections! This is one mighty berry Mother Nature has blessed us with.
Why You Should Make Elderberry Syrup
Making elderberry syrup is a little time consuming, but can save you money! Also, my kids and husband love the taste of this syrup. I’m not risking wasting my money on some expensive, organic syrup that they may not like. It also allows us to use it as a syrup, freeze it, or make elderberry gummies (which my kids would eat all day if I allowed them!)
To ensure my concentration wasn’t too weak in the beginning, I referred to the Franklin Institute of Wellness. I have since tweeked it a bit!
DIY Cold & Flu Fighting Elderberry Syrup
Ingredients:
3/4 C Dried Elderberries
3 C Water
1 TBSP Ginger Powder
1 tsp Cinnamon
1/2-1 tsp Cloves (I like it more clovey, Justin & the girls don’t)
1 C Honey
- Put all ingredients EXCEPT the honey in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer for about 45 minutes until you have about 2 cups of syrup.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- When cool enough, strain berries from liquid.
- Mash berries and put in a cheese or other thin cloth. Squeeze out all the juice and keep the berries and juice separate.
- Pour through a strainer into a jar or bowl for mixing.
- When no longer hot, add honey and mix well.
- Pour into your mason jar or glass container to store in the fridge.
Voila! You have homemade elderberry syrup. Take 1/2-1 tsp for kids and 1/2-1 TBSP for adults. If illness strikes your household, take every 2-3 waking hours for up to one week.
Please Note
Do not consume the berries. These can cause GI upset and illness. The berries are suited for syrup or gummies.
Do not add the honey while the syrup is hot or you will lose the antibacterial benefits of the honey.
Honey is not recommended for children under the age of 1. You can omit the sweetner, use maple syrup, or molasses.
I generally make a double batch of these. I freeze 2 cups, use 1 cup to make gummies, then keep the other cup in the fridge to use in smoothies or make more gummies. After it’s all said and done, I throw our berries into the compost.
This article is not intended to provide personal medical advice! As always, talk to your doctor about contradictions and if elderberry syrup is right for you.
Does your family consume elderberry syrup or gummies? What other natural ways does your family fight illness during cold and flu season?
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