How to make Elderberry syrup, a potent immune boosting folk medicine safe for the whole family.
- 3½ cups water
- 2/3 cup dried elderberries
- 2 TBSP ginger (grated)
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder or one stick crushed
- ½ tsp ground cloves or a few whole ones
- 1 cup local raw honey
Pour the water into a medium saucepan and add the elderberries, ginger, cinnamon and cloves.
Bring to a boil and then cover and reduce to a simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until the liquid has reduced by almost half.
Remove from heat and let cool until it is cool enough to be handled.
Mash the berries carefully using a spoon or other flat utensil.
Pour through a strainer into a glass jar or bowl.
Discard the elderberries and let the liquid cool to lukewarm.
When the honey is well mixed into the elderberry mixture, pour the syrup into a sterilised bottle. one with a cap like pictured.
Store in the fridge and take daily for its immune boosting properties. Some sources recommend taking only during the week and not on the weekends to boost immunity.
It is very important that the syrup is covered as it reduces, this way no goodness escapes in the steam.
Using local honey will help with any seasonal allergies as well.
You can buy dried elderberries to use for this recipe from {here}
*this recipe was adapted from the Wellness Mama website.
