HOW TO MAKE ELDERBERRY SYRUP

“Growth is painful, change is painful, but nothing is as painful as staying the same” ~ Dr. Sebi

Today, you’ll learn how to prepare elderberry syrup by way of a decoction method as a change in how you combat the cold/flu season. With winter around the corner, a tried and true herbal remedy is needed to strengthen and support your immune system.

The market is saturated with over the counter cough syrups that are loaded with sugar and things you can’t pronounce.  Am I right?  So, why not exert the effort and make your own apothecary to take charge of your health and well being.  Your body will thank you later.

I love this elderberry syrup recipe for so many reasons.  It’s easy, berrylicious, and kid-approved!

So, what are Elderberries?

As the name states, they’re berries also known as Sambucus nigra. Elderberry is known and respected for its medicinal uses. This herb is a powerhouse when it comes to fighting off colds/flu because it’s loaded with vitamin C and flavonoids that partner together to strengthen the immunity.  It’s also an anticatarrhal herb that breaks down the mucus when it has invaded the body. Elderberry also lends support to the respiratory system, it opens the body whereby creating a sweat that will aid in reducing fever.  This herb is POWERFUL!

Here are the details on how to make this decoction…

Gather your elderberries, and spices put them in a pot filled with spring water.  The spices I used are cinnamon, cardamom seeds, peppercorn, whole spice, star anise, and ginger.  You don’t have to use as many spices as I did in the beginning, but I encourage you to be creative with the flavor profile.

Next, 

Place the pot on the stove.  Allow the herbs to boil for 30-40 minutes this the decoction method when the herbs are boiled to extract the medicinal properties of the berries.  Be patience allow the herbs to work their MAGIC.

The last step…

Strain the berries using a funnel or cheesecloth squeeze out the liquid.  Transfer the liquid back into the pot add honey and stir in the arrowroot.  The arrowroot acts as a thickening agent to create the syrup consistency I explain in detail in the recipe card below.

So what does Elderberry syrup convey on the palate? It has a sweet berry taste coated with cinnamon overtones complimented by cardamon seeds that introduce a complex element that plays well with the ginger and allspice.   In other words, simply sublime.

This is how you make your very own Elderberry syrup give it a try. I hope this serves as a catalyst for you to learn more about the plant kingdom and its holistic properties.

In closing, I want to thank my Mama for her infinite wisdom in introducing herbs into our medicine cabinet as an alternative to pharmaceutical drugs. As a result, it has afforded me the opportunity to take charge of my well being and the health and wellness of my family. Thank you, Mama!

Side Note:  This post is no way advocating that you throw out your medication because it is not, but what I am suggesting is that you introduce natural alternatives by way of herbal remedies that are tried and true into your daily regimen. What does the adage say?  “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”. My sentiments exactly.

Lastly, I challenge you to purchase a herb book to learn more about herbs and the bountiful ways they can add VALUE into your life.  I recommend Alchemy of Herbs as a great introduction.  Don’t thank me, thank the herbs they’re the best teacher.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Where can I purchase Elderberries?

• I get mine from Starwest Botanicals

Is Elderberry syrup safe for children?

• NOT Recommended for children under the age of 1, due to infantile botulism.

What other ways can you consume Elderberry syrup?

• Add to smoothies.
• Drizzle on pancakes, waffles or fonio.

You may also be interested in:

• How To Prepare Sea Moss
• Lemon Lime Water Cleanse

5.0 from 2 reviews

HOW TO MAKE ELDERBERRY SYRUP A HERBAL REMEDY

 

Print

Prep time

5 mins

Cook time

105 mins

Total time

1 hour 50 mins

 

Author: Taste of Yummy

Serves: 3 cups

Ingredients

• 2 Cups of dried organic elderberries
• 4 Cups of cold water (Spring water, Distilled or Alkaline)
• 1 Teaspoon of Ground Ginger
• 1 Organic Cinnamon Stick
• 11/2 Cup of Organic honey
• 1 Whole Star Anise
• 4 Cardomon Seeds
• 2 Whole Peppercorns
• 4 Whole Allspice
• 1 Lemon Squeezed
• Optional:
• 1 Cup of brandy or vodka to extend shelf life.
• Thickening Agent For Syrup Like Consistency
• 1 Tablespoon Arrowroot Starch Flour
• ¼ Cup of Spring Water

Instructions

1. Combine berries and herbs into a pot of cold water. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and allow herbs to simmer for 30-40 minutes.
3. In a separate jar, add 1 tablespoon of Arrowroot Starch, and ¼ cup of water. Shake well until arrowroot is dissolved. Set aside.
4. Remove from heat and let steep for 1 hour.
5. Strain berries with a funnel or you can use a cheesecloth. Squeeze out excess liquid exercise caution, contents may still be hot.
6. Add arrowroot to liquid. Heat for 3-5 minutes whisking until the mixture begins to thicken. You can gradually adjust the amount of arrowroot to your desired consistency. Exercise caution here to not over thicken. The goal is to achieve a syrup consistency. Otherwise, you'll end up with a slimy-like consistency.
7. Now that the liquid has cooled, add honey and stir.
8. Bottle in 4 ounce airtight Mason jars.
9. Special Notes
10. Recommended Dosage: As a preventive measure, 1 teaspoon 1-2 times per day. When Ill, take 2-3 teaspoons up to 4 times per day. Small doses for children, larger doses for adults.
11. Store in refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

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