Elderberry Syrup

Black elderberries make a delicious syrup that is best known as a home remedy for helping regulate immune response and fighting coughs, colds, the flu, and other bacterial and viral infections. They contain very unique proteins with more antioxidant capacity than vitamin E or vitamin C. Elderberries also lower cholesterol, improve vision, and improve heart health.

Use as an immune booster during the cold and flu season. One tablespoon per day five days per week for adults, one teaspoon for children.

Ingredients

1 cup fresh or 1/2 cup dried black elderberries
3 cups water
3 whole cloves
1 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
1 cinnamon stick
1 cup raw honey

Cooking directions

Put elderberries, water, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon sticks in a saucepan and bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer from 45 to 60 minutes. When the liquid has reduced by almost half, remove from heat. Pour the mixture through a strainer into a glass jar. Squeeze as much juice as possible from the mixture with a spoon or by pressing it through a cheesecloth. Compost the rest of the mixture.

Now add the honey to the liquid and stir well (substitute with maple syrup if you have a family member under age 1). Refrigerate.

Prep Time: 5 min
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Makes about 3 cups

Image courtesy of thedabblist.