The cold and flu season are among us, a natural way to fight this ugly season is with elderberries! Elderberry syrup is becoming popular to treat the cold and flu, but it has been around for thousands of years. Black elderberries are small berries that come from the elder tree native to North America and Europe. Some studies have shown that taking elderberry syrup in the early stages of the flu can reduce the duration of illness by as 2 to 4 days. You can find the syrup at several drug stores or any natural organic store. You can also make your own for a lot less, just make sure you follow the directions and use organic ingredients. During the winter season I have this stocked in my fridge for myself and the family. Every day the kids and I take a dose to just keep our immune system up and to fight any nasty cold that lurks among us. Below is the recipe that I was given from a local organic market, which has worked for my family.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe:
2/3 cup dried elderberries
31/2 cups water
2 tablespoon fresh or dried ginger root
1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
½ teaspoon ground clove
1 cup honey
In a medium saucepan combine water and all ingredients except the honey. (place honey aside until the end) Bring to a boil and cover with lid cracked so steam can be released and turn heat down to a simmer. Simmer your ingredients for 45 minutes and then let cool. Pour entire cool content through a strainer or cheesecloth into a glass jar. After most of the liquid has strained through into the jar take a spoon to mash the berries to release more liquid into the jar, be careful because elderberries can stain your hands or countertops. When your liquid is cooled add your cup of honey and stir until dissolved. This recipe will make about 16 ounces so using a one-pint mason jar is preferred. Syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for several months.
Dose suggestions for adults: ½ to 1 tablespoon daily as preventive. If the flu does strike take above amount 3-4 times a day.
Dose suggestions for children: ½ to 1 teaspoon daily as preventive. If the flu strikes, take amount every 3-4 hours until symptoms decrease.
Children under 1 should not take and if pregnant or breastfeeding consult doctor first.
If you have use or make the syrup, please comment! Love to hear!
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