Vitamin C Infused Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry syrup has been a significant part of our medicine cabinet for years. I honestly believe it is what helps us bounce back so fast when we don't feel our best!

The history of Elderberries goes back centuries and is SO interesting! Historians generally trace the tradition of the elderberry’s healing power back to Hippocrates, the ancient Greek known as the “father of medicine.” He described this plant as his “medicine chest” for the wide variety of ailments it seemed to cure. The dried berries of the Sambucis Nigra plant are naturally high in immune-boosting compounds that are specifically shown to help beat the cold and flu in record time.

Over the centuries, elderberry has been used to treat colds, flu, fever, burns, cuts, and more than 70 other maladies. In the 17th century, John Evelyn, a British researcher, declared, “If the medicinal properties of its leaves, bark, and berries were fully known, I cannot tell what our countryman could ail for which he might not fetch a remedy [from the elderberry], either for sickness or wounds." Powerful right!?

The berries are rich in vitamins and minerals and are best used as a tonic syrup to ward off winter ailments. They are full of vitamins and thus strengthen and support the whole body. In particular a vitamin J is mentioned, which is specifically indicated to counteract pneumonia. Elderberries are reported to be of value as an alterative remedy in rheumatic conditions. They also soothe sore (inflamed) nerves and help to improve poor circulation. There are SO many benefits!

Our main use is when we get coughs, fevers or body pain. If you've ever taken a natural cough syrup, it has no doubt contained elderberry as a main ingredient. Elder relax bronchial spasms, making them very useful for treating upper respiratory infections.. Elderberry may help treat cold and flu symptoms by reducing congestion and possibly making you sweat more. One study suggested that using a standardized elderberry extract, Sambucol, could shorten the duration of flu by about 3 days.

This recipe makes about 32 oz and the bags you buy of all the ingredients will last you quite a while and make PLENTY of batches! If you don't want to use honey, you can use coconut nectar, maple or agave syrup. I buy a lot of the ingredients locally or on Amazon!

DOSAGE:

ADULTS: There is no standard dose of elderberry syrup. For colds and flu, I take 1 tsp a couple times a day until I feel better. Usually only 2 days.

CHILDREN: Children can take 1/4 – 1/2 tsp of elderberry syrup per day for daily maintenance. During times of cold and flu we increase it to 2-3 times per day for 2 days. 


INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups dried organic elderberries
• 4 cups cold water (distilled, purified, or spring water works best)
• 3 star anise
• 5 whole cloves
• 1/4 cup dried rosehips
• 1/4 cup dried orange peel
• 1 Tbsp organic dried ginger root
• 1 organic sweet cinnamon stick
• 1/4 cup dried rose petals
• 1.5 cups raw, local honey

DIRECTIONS:

1. Add all the ingredients besides the rose petals and the honey to a big pot and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer until liquid is reduced by half, about 45 minutes. Turn off the heat and add the rose petals; allow to steep until it's warm to the touch, about another 20 minutes.
3. Strain over a large bowl to remove all ingredients. Allow the liquid to cool to room temperature, then stir in the honey (or other sweetener).
4. Carefully pour elderberry syrup to a large mason jar with air tight lid. Store in fridge for a few weeks.

DISCLAIMER: I am not a physician, this is just what I do for my family. It is best you seek out dosage best for you and your family through a medical physician or herbalist. 

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only

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