DIY Elderberry Syrup for Immune Health
Elderberry syrup has been used for centuries to heal a variety of different ailments. Today it is more commonly used to boost immune health and provide relief for the common cold and flu. Consume elderberry syrup at the onset of cold or flu symptoms or take a small daily dose during the winter months for immune support.
Equipment
- Stainless steel or ceramic pot, medium size
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Large glass measuring cup or bowl
- Glass container with lid for storing syrup
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup dried elderberries
- 2 cups spring, purified or distilled water
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1/2 orange peel*
- 2-3 whole cardamom seed pods
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup honey (maple syrup or brown rice syrup)**
Instructions
- Combine elderberries, water, ginger, orange peel, cardamom, cinnamon and cloves in a medium-sized pot. It is best to use a stainless steel or ceramic pot for this recipe.
- Bring just to a boil on medium heat and reduce to a simmer.
- Partially cover and simmer for about 20 - 30 minutes or until liquid is reduced in size by half. Uncover for the last 5 minutes, if needed.
- Occasionally stir throughout the cooking process.
- When the liquid has reduced, turn off the heat and allow it to steep and slightly cool for about 5 minutes.
- Strain the mixture using a fine mesh strainer into a large glass measuring cup or bowl. Use a spoon to press the berries and extract as much juice as possible. Alternatively, a nut milk bag or cheesecloth may be used. Squeeze by hand to extract all of the liquid.
- Add the vanilla extract and honey and stir until well combined.
- Pour into a glass mason jar or container, top with a lid and store in the refrigerator.
Notes
Adults take 1 Tbsp per day and children 1 tsp per day during cold and flu season for immune health. When cold or flu symptoms appear, increase the dose to 3-4 times per day.
* I used the peel from half of a large orange. If using a smaller sized orange, use the peel from the entire orange.
** Use maple syrup or brown rice syrup for children under 1 and as a vegan substitute.