Elderberry Syrup

In the middle of two weeks of school Christmas break linked to a week of vacation for sweet hubby and I, with lots of family time spent together, someone came down with a cold!  As in any generous family, it was shared.  Thankfully it wasn't the flu and didn't put us down and out, but complaints about sore throats and congestion were sounded.  

A dose of over the counter medication cleared up our son's nose, but totally knocked him out. It was ok at bedtime, but would greatly interfere with daily activities.  As soon as hubby started having symptoms, natural mama here jumped in with some proactive natural remedies!

Essential oils rubbed on throat - Thieves and Breathe blends to fight germs and clear nose, then a batch of elderberry syrup to build up the immune system to help it do it's job.  Elderberries naturally contain A, B, and C and stimulate the immune system.  Click HERE to read about some of the powerful benefits of elderberries.  

Here is an easy recipe to prepare.  I halved this to make less for our small family. 

Classic Elderberry Syrup 

4 cups cold water

2 cups organic dried Elderberries

1 organic Cinnamon Stick

1 tsp fresh grated organic ginger root or organic dried Ginger Root

raw local honey

Directions:

To make the syrup, combine the berries and herbs with cold water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and allow herbs to simmer for 30 to 40 minutes. Remove from heat and mash the berries in the liquid mixture. Strain the berries and herbs through cheesecloth and squeeze out the juice. Measure the liquid and add an equal amount of honey. Gently heat the honey and juice for a few minutes until well combined. Do not boil! Bottle in sterilized glass.

The Bulk Herb Store is where I purchase the majority of the herbs I use. 

DISCLAIMER: For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.