Elderberry Syrup

During cold and flu season, we take this daily to protect ourselves from the cold and flu viruses going around.  It is super easy to make and will keep in the refrigerator for quite some time.  If you do get the flu, take a dose of elderberry syrup every three hours until symptoms subside.  I have used it and it really works!  We buy our elderberries from Mountain Rose Herbs (they also have some tasty teas!).  This recipe was adapted from the Wellness Mama and Elliott Homestead. Also, make sure to use some local honey, usually you can find some at the grocery stores or health food stores in town.  This is important for the cold aspect of the cold and flu prevention. Merry Christmas and be well!

Elderberry Syrup
(makes about 1 1/2 quarts)

Ingredients:
2 c. dehydrated elderberries (see above for where we buy ours from)
8 c. filtered water
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp whole cloves
2 Tbsp fresh ground ginger
1 c. raw local honey

Directions:

1. Using a large saucepan, mix together water, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and berries.  Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it begins boiling, put a lid on the saucepan and drop the heat down to low so it is barely simmering. 

2. Simmer the mixture for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Allow to cool to room temperature.  Using a fine strainer, strain out the liquid and squeeze any remaining juice out of the elderberries.  Discard the elderberries.

4. Then, stir in the honey and store in a mason jar in the refrigerator.  I recommend adults taking about 1 Tbsp per day.  Kids can also take it, a smaller dose of about 2 tsp per day.

Stay well this holiday season!