Elderberry syrup benefits are plentiful and it can help you with a wide range of illnesses. It is a a powerful herbal preparation that helps with colds and the flu.. It has been used for centuries because of the support it provides during an illness. We now know this is because of its high level of antioxidants compared to other berries.
Why Make Homemade Elderberry Syrup?
Pre-made elderberry syrup is available in health food stores or online on amazon but it is an inferior version compared to homemade syrup. It's also a lot more expensive.
It is very easy to make your own elderberry syrup. Homemade herbal syrup is more economical and healthier because you can control the sweetener used and there is no need for preservatives. Raw local honey is the best option because it adds even more health benefits. If raw local honey is not available to you or if you are making this for a child under 2 years old, maple syrup can be substituted.
How to make Elderberry Syrup
Ingredients you need:
- 1 cup dried elderberries
- Pinch of whole cloves
- 1 tsp cinnamon chips
- 4 cups filtered water
- A 1-qt. mason jar with lid
- 1/2 – 1 1/2 cup Raw local honey
First, put the elderberries and water in a pot and heat until boiling. Once it boils leave it on low heat for 30 minutes. Turn off the heat and let it steep until cool in the pot. To make this easy, I created a Elderberry Syrup Kit, that contains all the herbs you'll need.
Strain the liquid and pour into the mason jar. You can use a tool like an herb press to get out every last drop. Let the liquid sit until completely cooled and then stir in the raw honey. To make it a thicker syrup, use equal parts honey to elderberry juice. The more honey you use the longer it will last due to the higher sugar content. Store in the refrigerator.
Once you are more comfortable making this recipe, you can add other herbs to increase the benefits. Some herbs to add could be cinnamon, clove, astragalus, rosehips, orange peel, or thyme.
If you are not up for making it yourself, this is a good one that I trust – Gaia Elderberry Syrup.
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