So cool that elderberry syrup has become a household word! Even folks that could care less about herbal remedies know what elderberry syrup is.
Today’s recipe and inspiration is about going back to basics and making sure elderberry syrup is a tried and true staple in your herbal cupboard.
I am sure glad it’s in my medicine cabinet! One trip to the health food store for elderberry syrup can cost a mild fortune!! Yesterday in the store I saw a 6 oz. bottle of elderberry syrup for $33 and a 3.9 oz. bottle for $25.99. I can easily take 3 oz. a day at the onset of a cold, so do the math for a family of 3…Yikes!
With just a little time, you can get yourself set up for the next few months to have elderberry syrup on hand. It’s less expensive this way and is there when you need it. And…you can dispense it generously! No more doling out a teaspoon here and there!
My son, Gabriel, pounding down the elderberry syrup when he was young!
Crafting your own elderberry syrup is also a fun activity for the family. Kids can help measure, stir, and even choose their favorite spices to add, like cinnamon sticks or a slice of ginger for a little twist. Creating syrup together brings the reassurance of knowing exactly what goes into each batch for your family.
Elderberry syrup offers a delicious way to nourish our immune systems naturally. It has certainly earned its place as a go-to formula in many homes, especially during cold and flu season. That’s because this simple yet potent syrup is full of antioxidants and vitamin C, providing reliable immune support that can help keep sniffles at bay.
What are the Benefits of Elderberry?
Elderberries and local honey make an excellent team when it comes to enhancing immune health. Elderberries contain antioxidants, like the deep-purple anthocyanins that may help the body handle daily stress. With vitamin C and flavonoids, elderberries offer a boost to the immune system. Some studies even suggest that elderberries may help with faster recovery when we’re feeling under the weather, which explains why they’ve been a staple in herbal traditions for centuries.
Additionally, elderberry’s antiviral properties are believed to keep viruses from attaching to healthy cells, helping to prevent them from reproducing. This makes elderberry especially effective when taken at the onset of symptoms, potentially reducing the severity and duration of colds or flu.
Local honey is more than just a healthy sweetener—it’s a great way to add immune-supporting qualities to your elderberry syrup recipe. Antibacterial and full of antioxidants, honey enhances the syrup’s taste while offering an additional layer of nourishment.
What I have found to be true for three decades of using elderberry syrup is that its effectiveness is so much about timing. As soon as notice that first sign of feeling a little run down or the initial scratchy throat, that is when I start taking the elderberry. If you wait until you have a full-blown cold, it can still help you, but my experience is that taking it at the onset is what keeps the cold from really coming on.
How to Make Easy Elderberry Syrup
This elderberry syrup recipe is a straight forward way to make this delectable herbal remedy something that you can rely on. This recipe is great for beginners because it only includes the essential ingredients without bells or whistles.
This recipe includes the option of adding brandy. This is an option that is not necessary. The benefit of adding brandy is that it extends the shelf life. Some people like this option, others don’t want the brandy in their remedy. Adding brandy or not is a personal preference.
How to Make Easy Elderberry Syrup
Ingredients
- 4 cups (32 oz water)
- 1 cup dried elderberries
- 2 cups raw honey (ideally local) (only for children over 12 months old)
- 1 cup brandy (optional)
Instructions
- Combine the elderberries and water in a large pot without a lid.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Simmer until the liquid is reduced to half its original volume.
- Once the liquid is reduced by half, strain the herbs through a tightly woven muslin cloth.
- Strain out the herbs and allow the liquid to cool slightly.
- Add the honey once the liquid has cooled down to be slightly warm.
- This allows for the honey to mix in well without disturbing the enzymes from over-heating.
- Add the brandy, if using, and mix well.
- Pour into sterilized storage jars.
Notes
- With brandy: 2-3 months in the refrigerator.
- Without brandy: 2-3 weeks in the refrigerator. Make sure to check the syrup before each use and store it properly.
Optional Add-Ins
One of the best parts about making elderberry syrup at home is the chance to personalize it to suit your tastes. You can add a few other herbs and spices, turning your syrup into a truly custom creation. Here are some options to consider:
- Orange Peel: Adds a bright citrusy note that pairs beautifully with elderberries.
- Cardamom Pods: Cardamom adds a warm, aromatic flavor that’s perfect for syrups.
- Cinnamon Sticks: This classic spice brings warmth and goes really well with honey.
Feel free to experiment to find what you like most! For another creative variation, check out my Elderberry Juniper Syrup Recipe for a unique blend that incorporates a handful of different herbs (and makes a giant batch for sharing!).
Ways to Use Your Elderberry Syrup
Once you’ve made your own elderberry syrup, there are plenty of ways to enjoy its benefits. Here are a few fun ideas:
- Winter Health Boost: Take a spoonful on its own each day during the winter for immune support. It’s a simple and effective way to add elderberries into your routine.
- Mix into Beverages: Stir your syrup into a glass of water, herbal tea, or sparkling water for a refreshing drink.
- Sweeten Smoothies: Add a bit of elderberry syrup to your morning or afternoon smoothie for more flavor.
- Top Your Breakfast: Drizzle over yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes for a fruity, antioxidant-rich topping that’s both appetizing and beneficial.
- Add to Your Mocktails & Cocktails: Elderberry syrup’s sweet, earthy taste works nicely in mixed drinks. Try it in a homemade mocktail or add it to a cocktail recipe for your next gathering with friends.
Immune Support Made Simple
Crafting your own elderberry syrup recipe brings a special touch to daily routines, adding care and intention to each batch. Whether you keep it basic or play around with added flavors, this syrup is a rewarding addition that you can feel good about sharing with loved ones. Making it at home also lets you appreciate the process, from simmering the berries to filling your jars with a beautiful syrup. Enjoy every spoonful as a reminder of the benefits of creating your own herbal essentials—straight from your kitchen.
If you liked this recipe, take a peek at my online courses for more herbal inspiration! Discover how to create easy home remedies with everyday ingredients in Herbal Kitchen Remedy Solutions.
Let me know! Are you inspired to make your own elderberry syrup? Or, if you already make elderberry syrup, how has it worked for you?
