Elderberry Syrup

 Nature's Medicine

Last week I stepped into my local health Food/Natural food store to pick up a few items on my shopping list. I noticed the corner where the bulk herbs are kept, a group of people waiting their turn to scoop out a portion of elderberries. The word is out , Elderberries are not only delicious but are said to have immune building qualities. Store bought preparations are expensive, but Elderberry elixir is easy to make at home. This can be made with fresh, frozen or dried berries.

I'm fortunate to have a bush at home where I pick not only berries but the flowers. I also supplement my supply by foraging nearby fields. My berries fill the dehydrator, bags in the freezer and become a few bottles of wine. All are used and enjoyed during the winter and early spring months.

Elderberry Syrup

 Ingredients

• 3½ cups water
• 2/3 cup dried elderberries or 1 1/3 cups fresh or frozen)
• 2 TBSP ginger (grated)
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ½ tsp cloves or 4 whole loves
• 1 cup raw dark honey

Instructions

• 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 it is no longer hot, add the honey and stir well.
• When the honey is well mixed into the elderberry mixture, pour the syrup into a  mason jar  
  Lasts approximately 30-60 days in the refrigerator.
  Dosage for adults: 1 Tbsp.
  Dosage for children over the age of one year: 1 tsp.
  Take once daily for immune support. May be taken 3x/day when fighting a cold or flu.
  CONTAINS HONEY AND NOT SAFE FOR CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 1
  
  

  

  Elder Berry