Elderberry Syrup (Immune Tonic)

Elderberry syrup is a popular immune-boosting herbal concoction for cold and flu season. This simple recipe allows you to make this powerful preparation at home.

½ cup dried Elder berries *50g

4 cups water

3 tbsp fresh ginger, chopped (substitute for chopped dried ginger *powder will be more potent so use much less)

3 whole clove buds

1 Tbsp licorice root

30g dried rose hips

*high in vitamin C

2-3 cinnamon quills

1½ cups raw honey

Instructions:

In a large stock pot, bring the water, elderberries and other dried herbs to the boil (not the honey)

Reduce the heat and simmer until the liquid is reduced by half. This may take approx 1 hr.

Allow the mixture to cool to warm temp *to keep the honey raw.

Strain the herbs and return the liquid to the pot. Add honey and stir to dissolve.

Pour the syrup into clean, sanitized glass jars and label. Store in refrigerator and use within 1-2 months.

Suggested usage for adults is 1 tablespoon up to 3x/day and for children is 1 teaspoon up to 3x/day.

You can also add 500ml - 1L of apple, pomegranate, cranberry etc juice to sweeten and add other medicinal benefits

*Notes:

There are so many options to add different herbs to this syrup ie. elderflower, reishi, echinacea, thyme *for sore throats etc.

You can find these ingredients in your local health food store, have a look in the loose leaf tea section!