Did you know that Elderberry is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants? It’s the herbalist’s go-to for all sorts of ailments. The whole world over.
So, I wanted to share with you one of my favorite ways of using Elderberry. And why I take it daily during the winter months. Elderberry immune support.
First and foremost, let’s start with what elderberry is. Known as Sambucas to us herbalists. There’s a number of types. But basically, it’s a flowering tree. (I honestly love the flowers too. And they have medicinal qualities, I’ll share another time.) The tiny little white star-shaped flowers give way to deep, dark, lush purple berries.
Which are bitter and best not eaten raw. Ever! See Disclaimer at the bottom if those types of deets interest you.
I use wild-crafted Elderberries that come ready dried, but you can pick and dry them yourself.
Psst! Come close. Elderberry and Elderflower remedies shorten flu and cold symptoms. I know, I know. Not supposed to give medical advice. But seriously, Check This Link, for the results of the clinical review.
And testing is in place to see if Elderberry helps as a preventative to catching flu and flu-like viruses.
My personal experience, is that it lessens symptoms. I take it at the first sign of a cold or winter ickies coming on. And during the autumn and winter of 2021/22 I take a teaspoon daily as an immune boosting tonic.
And all the family can enjoy this. Make a batch and to support you and your family’s immune health.
But, there’s more:
Elderberry is an awesome anti-oxidant. Which, as we know, helps our bodies stay cancer free.
Studies also indicate that Elderberry is good for our heart health. Reducing the risk of heart disease.
Also: lowering blood sugar, improving cholesterol levels and even useful in lowering uric acid.
This wonderful little berry is chockablock full of Vitamin C, is high in dietary fiber, and has components that reduce the impact of stress on our bodies.
Hey, and they’re also anti-inflammatory and fight infections.
Surely, you’re now sold on the benefits and are gagging to get some Elderberry Syrup into your life!
Here goes. Elderberry Immune Support!
Jacqui’s Easy Elderberry Syrup
Ingredients
1 cup dried elderberries
6 cups filtered water
thumb-sized piece of ginger
10 to 15 dried cloves
1.5 cups raw, local honey (or maple syrup if children are under a year)
Method
Pop berries and water into a pan over heat. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes.
I just use the colander, but if you want to get fancy: drain through cheesecloth.
Strain the berries out and discard. The good stuff has been extracted and is ready for step two.
Local, raw honey has so many health benefits. However, raw honey isn’t recommended for babes. Use maple syrup if your little one is under a year old.
Add chopped ginger and cloves to the elderberry juice.
Return to the heat and simmer for a further 45 to 60 minutes. You’ll have about 3 cups of juice left as it reduces.
Remove from the heat and strain the ginger and cloves out.
Ready to be poured into a nice glass bottle.
Bottle in glass. Label. And finally, refrigerate.
As I mentioned, I take a teaspoon of elderberry immune support each day. But when I had a nasty cold last year, I upped the ante. Went with a big ol’ tablespoon. I made a lemon and ginger tea. (That’s lemon slices and ginger, with some honey, steeped in hot water.) And I added my elderberry syrup instead of honey.
Simple and easy. This cold/flu fighter is also super tasty.
So, there you have it. A simple, easy and delicious way to boost your immune system, take care of your heart. And fight off those colds and flus that hover around every autumn/winter.
If you don’t fancy making your own, there are several good brands around. Look at your local health food store. But, they’re a lot more expensive than making your own. So, why not have a go!
And perhaps, you’ll share with family and friends. The gift of health. How cool is that!
Enjoy! And make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss any of my health and wellness tips. But it’s important to know how your body works, so you can take care of it. Learn how your body works and enjoy your fabulous health and wellness. Check out A&P.
Big love,
Disclaimer: I do have to tell you that raw Elderberries aren’t good for you. The raw berries, bark and leaves contain a substance called lectin. Ingestion can lead to an upset tummy. But we’re cooking the berries, so we’re good. And they’re quite bitter if eaten raw. Mother Nature is great at natural warnings.
And, you may read on the net, that Elderberries contain cyanide. Yes, they do. But, in such teeny-tiny amounts that you’d have to ingest enough to choke an elephant before something nasty happened. And btw, apples contain arsenic. Bet you’ve eaten a few of those in your time! These naturally occurring components come from the soil.
So, enjoy your Elderberry Syrup, unless you’ve an allergy.
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