ELDERBERRY SYRUP FOR IMMUNE SUPPORT
Keeping ourselves and our household healthy during the winter can be a challenge and I’m sure as other mothers can attest, something as benign as a cold can wreak havoc and cause nothing but misery as it spreads from person to person.
We don’t spend as much time outside in the fresh air, especially during the cooler months, the indoor air is warm and dry, and we’re usually in relatively close quarters with others which makes germ-spreading too easy! Unfortunately, conventional medicine is unable to provide much support for a simple cold or flu. One of our favorite immune boosting remedies throughout the year, but especially during the winter, is elderberry syrup.
Elderberries (sambucus) have been long used in traditional European medicine to help combat colds, the flu, and to improve general immunity. They pack a nutrient punch and are chock full of antioxidants, flavonoids, potassium, beta carotene, vitamin C and minerals like iron, potassium, phosphorus, and copper. Research done in Norway studied the efficacy and safety of oral elderberry extract in the treatment of influenza A and B viruses. Symptoms were shown to be relieved on average 4 days sooner and the use of medication was significantly less in those receiving elderberry extract versus placebo.
Remember, never give honey to a baby 1 year of age or younger. Talk with your physician/pediatrician should have you have questions or concerns.
How to make your own elderberry syrup:
{adapted from Wellness Mama}
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
2/3 cup dried black elderberries (we purchase from Mountain Rose Herbs or here)
3 ½ cups filtered water
1 teaspoon organic cinnamon powder
2 tablespoons fresh chopped ginger root
½ teaspoon cloves
1 cup raw honey (from local farmer’s market or here)