DIY Elderberry Syrup (super easy to make!)
Looking to maintain healthy immune function this winter? Then you need Elderberry Syrup in your life! Elderberries are full of antioxidants, which are key for a healthy immune system.
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How can Elderberry Syrup help you?
Elderberry syrup has been a staple in my life for many years. Whenever my kids or I feel some sickness coming on, it’s elderberry syrup all the way. We take it several times a day when we are under the weather and it lessens the severity of the illness – every time. I also take it daily to strengthen my immune system. My kids, not so much.
Elderberries are packed with antioxidants and Vitamins A and C. Elderberries have been shown to reduce symptoms of the flu and other respiratory infections. Elderberry syrup is a must-have for your natural medicine cabinet!
Homemade Elderberry Syrup vs. Store Bought
I know it’s super easy to pick up Elderberry Syrup at the store or online, but I highly recommend making your own. The store-bought versions have ingredients you don’t really need, like citric acid and other preservatives. When you make your own, you know exactly what you’re putting into it and this recipe is so simple – only 3 ingredients (aside from water).
I took a class at a local herbal shop over the summer and elderberry syrup was the first thing we made. I didn’t realize how easy it was to make and I want to share the recipe with you!
Ingredients for DIY Elderberry Syrup
3/4 cup dried elderberries
3 cups water
1 cup local raw honey
juice of 1/2 a lemon
Directions for Homemade Elderberry Syrup
1. Add water and elderberries to a saucepan, place the lid on the pot and turn the heat on high until the water boils.
2. Once boiled, turn the heat to medium/low and allow the elderberries to gently simmer until the liquid is reduced by half. It should be slightly thicker than when you first started.
3. Once the liquid is reduced, take the pot off the heat and strain the liquid into a bowl or big glass measuring cup. Try and squeeze all the excess liquid out from the berries as much as you can.
4. Once slightly cooled but still warm, add in your honey and lemon juice. Stir really well so the honey gets fully incorporated.
5. Pour into a mason jar and keep it in the fridge. Done!
How to use Elderberry Syrup
As I mentioned earlier, you can take elderberry syrup daily for healthy immune support and/or when you start to feel under the weather.
I personally take one teaspoon of my DIY Elderberry Syrup daily and if I’m not feeling great I increase it to one teaspoon 3-4 times daily.
I hope you try and make your own homemade elderberry syrup. It’s definitely worth it!
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