Making Elderberry Syrup
Recently one of my children was sick with a cold and I went to purchase Elderberry Syrup. I was completely stunned by how much it was! It was $28.00 for 8 ounces. Making it myself was easy and I happy to share the process with you!
Why use Elderberry Syrup:
Elderberry syrup is commonly used to treat symptoms of the common cold and flu. Some studies have suggested that elderberry syrup can reduce the duration and severity of these illnesses. As with most food related solutions, more research is needed to confirm its full effectiveness. Elderberry syrup is also high in antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system and protect cells from damage. In addition, elderberry syrup may have anti-inflammatory effects and may help to lower cholesterol levels. As with any supplement, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking elderberry syrup to ensure that it is safe for you.
Organic Ingredients:
- 1 cup of dried elderberries or fresh. I used dried and purchased from Amazon.
- 3 cups of filtered water
- 1 cup of raw local honey
- Optional Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp of elderflowers
- 1 Cinnamon Stick
- 3 Cloves
- 1-2 inches of grated ginger or 1/8 tsp dried
- 1 -2 Star Anise
Now What:
Place your berries, herbs and water into a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce your heat and simmer for 60 minutes stirring every so often.
Remove from heat and using a potato masher or back of a ladle, mash the berries well to release the juice. Strain your mixture by using one of the following methods:
- Cheesecloth: Strain mixture through and squeeze out as much juice as possible by wringing the cheesecloth. Good method for small batches.
- Strainer: Scoop out small amount and using back of ladle press out as much juice as possible.
- Potato Ricer: I use this method. Place small amount in ricer and squeeze out juice. After squeezing the juice, strain the juice through a layer of cheesecloth.
After mixture is strained, measure how much liquid you have and add to it an equal amount of honey. For example, if you have 2 cups of juice then you would add 2 cups of honey. Mix well and store in refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Instructions for use:
Adults – Take 1 Tablespoon a day or up to 3x as needed
Children over the age of 12 months – Take 1 Teaspoon a day or up to 3x as needed. Elderberry contains honey. It is always best to talk to a healthcare provider before giving honey to a child.
Elderberry Mash
The leftover berries and herbs are called Elderberry Mash. If you dry this mash, it makes a wonderful tea. Once dried, place 1 heaping teaspoon in tea strainer and let steep for several minutes. Delicious!
There are several methods to dry out the mash.
- Spread in even layer on cookie sheet and bake at 115 degrees until berries are completely dry.
- Spread in even layers in dehydrator until berries are completely dry.
Store dried mash in an airtight container and enjoy!
I love not wasting anything and being able to make this yummy tea from something that I would have tossed, is extra satisfying. Win Win!
