Elderberry Syrup
My go-to recipe when colds & flus start to hit in my kid’s school! Elderberries have numerous health benefits including:
antioxidants that boost the immune system
fights & protects against bacterial and viral infections
reduces the duration of cold or flu symptoms by almost half compared to other methods
helps clear sinus infections
helps with constipation due to its diuretic effects
Purchasing elderberry syrup is expensive and if you are not careful you may choose brands that have extra preservatives, food dyes, and sugar which all negatively impact the immune system. Making your own not only saves you money, but also allows you to control the flavour your child prefers and makes your home smell delcicious!
Ingredients:
3/4 cup dried elderberries
3 cups of water
1 tsp dried cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick
1 tsp dried cloves
1 tsp dried ginger
1 cup of raw or manuka honey
Instructions:
In a large pot bring the elderberries, water, cinnamon, cloves, & ginger to a boil.
Reduce heat to simmer & cover. Simmer for 45 minutes until the liquid is reduced to half.
Allow the liquid to cool, and then drain using a fine strainer or cheese cloth. Press out all the liquid of the berries using the back of a wooden spoon.
Discard the squeezed berries.
Add honey and mix well.
Store in an airtight glass container in fridge for up to 2 months.
Adults take 1 tbsp daily and children 1 tsp daily. If actively fighting a cold or flu, it can be taken up to 4 times per day.
Note: if you or your child has autoimmune conditions, please speak to a health practicioner for specific instructions.
