Homemade Elderberry Syrup
Elderberry syrup has been used for centuries to treat and prevent colds, coughs and mild cases of the flu. It's easy to make and tastes delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 cup quality dried elderberries
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh ginger, peeled
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 4 teaspoons ground cloves
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup raw honey, local if possible (use raw: non-raw is simply sugar with no health benefits) (raw buckwheat honey has the highest levels of antioxidants)
Instructions
- Place all of the ingredients, except for the honey, in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil then reduce the heat to a low simmer and simmer uncovered for approx. 30 minutes or until the liquid is reduced by roughly half (though that much isn't necessary). Use a fork or potato masher to mash the berries.
- Let the mixture steep for a few minutes, the strain the liquid through a fine sieve or cheesecloth and mash or squeeze the solids to release as much liquid as possible. You can also use a food mill. Let the liquid cool until room temperature (no hotter than lukewarm) and then stir in the honey. Makes about 3 cups.
- Store in the refrigerator. Will keep for at least 2 weeks.
- There is no standard dose for elderberry syrup. Adults trying to prevent a cold or flu can take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day and increase it to 2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day to treat a cold or flu until the symptoms disappear. Decrease the dose for children. If giving to children it's always best to consult your pediatrician.IMPORTANT NOTE: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends not giving raw honey to infants younger than 12 months.
Nutrition
Serving: 1tablespoonCalories: 25kcalCarbohydrates: 6g
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