Why Use Elderberry Syrup & How to Make it
How to Make Elderberry Syrup & Why It is so Beneficial
The best supplements are the kind you can make at home, and add honey to! Elderberry syrup is a powerful natural remedy that has been used for centuries for its immune-boosting properties and its ability to support overall health. Elderberry syrup is made from dried elderberries. It is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can help strengthen the immune system overall, reduce the severity of colds and flu, and provide relief from seasonal allergies.
The dark purple berries of the elderberry plant are rich in flavonoids, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their deep color and contribute to their anti-inflammatory and antiviral benefits (causing symptoms from viruses to be lessened). Elderberries also contain high levels of vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties and its role in supporting skin health and collagen production.
How Elderberries are Being Used
Because elderberry is so helpful for supporting the immune system, many people turn to it as a natural alternative to over-the-counter medications, especially for alleviating symptoms like a sore throat, congestion, and cough. Not only is elderberry syrup effective in treating colds and flu, but it can also help reduce inflammation in the body. For those dealing with chronic conditions or inflammatory skin conditions, elderberry syrup may provide a natural, holistic solution to support overall wellness. It’s often used to help ease discomfort and improve circulation, as well as promote better respiratory health.
The best part about elderberry syrup is that it’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine. So let’s get to it; I will share the recipe below! Whether you prefer taking a spoonful each morning as a preventative measure or using it as a remedy when illness strikes, elderberry syrup is versatile and can be added to tea, smoothies, or even used as a topping for pancakes or yogurt. You can find elderberry syrup in health food stores or make your own at home with simple ingredients like dried elderberries, honey, and water, along with ginger and cinnamon.
ELDERBERRY SYRUP RECIPE
2 ¼ Cups Dried Elderberries (I always order mine From Azure Standard, along with my canning jars, all grains, and pantry staples. You can find out if they have a grocery drop point near you by putting in your zip code. Shop with them using code MeredithLarson2 HERE)
9 Cups of Filtered Water
3 Teaspoons of Dried Cinnamon or 3 Full Cinnamon Sticks
3 Teaspoons of Dried Cloves or 12 Whole Cloves
3 Tablespoons of Ginger
3 Cups Raw Honey
- Add all ingredients into a large boiling pot and bring to rolling boil
- Once boiling, reduce the heart and let simmer for 30 minutes. Some of the water will reduce.
- Turn off the burner, add the honey while the syrup is warm, and allow the syrup to cool completely before straining into jars.
- Some people do like to repurpose their berries. I do not. I just throw them away.
*As with any supplement, it’s important to use elderberry syrup responsibly. Additionally, raw elderberries or parts of the plant can be toxic, so always make sure the syrup is prepared properly to avoid any adverse effects.
Wishing you wellness & lots of energy when you need it most!
xoxo,
Meredith
