Elderberry recipes are at top of my list to vanquish cold and flu symptoms. Not only do elderberries (Sambucus mexicana and S. nigra) enhance the immune system, their antiviral properties hinder flu virus from penetrating cell membranes. The berries are also rich in vitamins A and C and loaded with flavonoids.
“Elderberry recipes are at top of my list to vanquish cold and flu symptoms.”
To prevent respiratory viral infections, these elderberry recipes work best when taken at the onset of a cold or flu. Don’t wait until the virus has already taken hold. At the very first sign of symptoms like a drop in energy, achy muscles, or a tickle in the throat, get your elderberry cordial, syrup, or fire cider flowing!
#1 Elderberry Cordial
Drink a shot of this “no more colds” cordial as soon as you feel cold or flu symptoms coming on, and you can really keep it from progressing into a full-blown sickness. This cordial can also be sipped before or after dinner as a tonic. I love having extra to give away and make bottles of elderberry cordial for family, friends, and students.
Get the recipe: Elderberry Cordial Recipe
#2 Elderberry Syrup
This syrup contains the benefits of elderberries along with juniper berries, which are incredibly antimicrobial and help keep the lymph and circulation moving. If I start catching a cold and feel that first sign of fatigue that is not normal, and I JUMP ON IT with this syrup… it doesn’t progress. Bonus: you can even turn this syrup into a delicious elderberry elixir mocktail!
Get the recipe: Elderberry Juniper Syrup for the Masses
#3 Elderberry Fire Cider
Fire cider is a brew of pungent herbs steeped in apple cider vinegar, taken at the first sign of cold or flu, or as a daily tonic during the colder months. This twist on the traditional fire cider recipe integrates the immune-supportive powers of elderberry. I’ve found that elderberry is a great addition to fire cider that mellows out the intensity a bit.
Get the recipe: Elderberry Fire Cider Recipe
Where can I find elderberries?
You can purchase organically grown, dried elderberries at Mountain Rose Herbs.
Elderberry is relatively easy to grow and you may be able to grow your own, save a bunch of money, and provide amazing medicine for your community. Get the How to Grow Elderberry Tutorial and see if where you live is a good fit for growing your own elderberries.
I would love to hear from you! Do you have any favorite elderberry recipes? Have you experienced the power of elderberries to stop a cold or flu in its tracks? Please share in the comments below.
