Name: Homemade Elderberry Syrup
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 4 oz. dehydrated elderberries; 1 Tbsp. dehydrated ginger (or 1-inch section of fresh ginger peeled and sliced); 3-4 cinnamon sticks; 1 tsp. whole cloves; 6 star anise; 3 1/2 cup water; 1 1/2 cup local raw honey

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In a world that often seems to be racing against the clock, the idea of slowing down, connecting with nature, and nurturing our well-being can be a soothing balm for the soul. One delightful way to embrace this ethos is by making homemade elderberry syrup, a centuries-old elixir cherished for its immune-boosting and wellness-enhancing properties.

I am not a doctor. Please consult your physician or pediatrician before taking this Elderberry Syrup.

This post is not sponsored.

This post may contain affiliate links which means I make a small commission if you make a purchase through my link which is of no cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Why take Elderberry Syrup?

Taking elderberry syrup can offer a wide range of health benefits due to its natural compounds and properties. Here are some compelling reasons why people choose to take elderberry syrup:

Immune Support:

Elderberries are rich in antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and vitamin C, which are known to boost the immune system. Regular consumption of elderberry syrup can help strengthen your body's defenses against various infections and illnesses.

Cold and Flu Relief:

Elderberry syrup has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms. It can help alleviate symptoms like congestion, coughing, and sore throat, making it a popular choice during the cold and flu season.

Antiviral Properties:

Elderberries contain natural compounds that have antiviral properties. These compounds can inhibit the replication of viruses, potentially making it more difficult for viruses to take hold in your body.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects:

Elderberry syrup has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, making it beneficial for conditions like bronchitis and asthma.

Rich in Nutrients:

Elderberries are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and dietary fiber, which can contribute to overall health and well-being.

Allergy Relief:

Some people find relief from seasonal allergies by taking elderberry syrup regularly. It may help reduce allergy symptoms due to its potential immune-boosting effects.

Holistic Wellness:

Many individuals appreciate elderberry syrup for its holistic and traditional roots. It offers a natural approach to maintaining and enhancing health without the use of synthetic medications.

Before adding elderberry syrup to your daily routine, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications. While elderberry syrup has numerous benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone, and proper dosage is important for safe and effective use.

Why make your own?

I feel like in the last 5-10 years elderberry immune-boosting products have taken over! There are chewable tablets, gummies, ready-made syrups, capsules, teas...there is certainly a wide variety of elderberry products to choose from. Unfortunately, many of these products are very processed and contain unwanted ingredients like corn syrup, or preservatives.

If you make your own, you can source your own ingredients and choose the quality of those ingredients. This elderberry syrup contains local, raw honey and organic spices. It also has to be refrigerated because it contains no preservatives. By making your own elderberry syrup you end up with a much simpler product.

Grow your own elderberries

I had 2 elderberry bushes for about 3 years and they did fantastic, coming back larger and with more berries each year. Unfortunately, I had to dig them up to make room for cow fencing and they were neglected in the pots waiting to be re-planted. But I plan to give elderberry bushes another chance in the future.

Elderberries thrive in a variety of climates and are relatively easy to cultivate. To start, choose a well-draining location with full to partial sunlight and ensure the soil is rich in organic matter. Elderberry bushes require regular pruning, usually in late winter or early spring, to encourage new growth and maintain a manageable size. Proper spacing between bushes is essential to allow for adequate air circulation. Be mindful that elderberries are known to attract birds, so consider installing bird netting to protect your harvest.

In Michigan, where we live, the berries ripen in late summer/ early fall.

Health benefits of each ingredient:

Elderberry

Elderberry, the dark purple berries from the Sambucus nigra plant, offers a powerful combination of immune-boosting and respiratory benefits. These berries are rich in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, and flavonoids, which not only strengthen the immune system but also help the body defend against respiratory infections. Elderberry's immune-boosting properties have been studied extensively and have shown promise in reducing the severity and duration of colds and flu. By enhancing the body's defense mechanisms, elderberry can fortify the respiratory system, making it more resilient to various pathogens and allergens. This potent berry serves as a natural and holistic approach to supporting overall immune and respiratory health, making it a valuable ally, especially during cold and flu seasons.

Because I killed my elderberry bushed (see above) We are using organic, dehydrated elderberries for this recipe.

Star Anise

Star anise, scientifically known as Illicium verum, provides a unique combination of respiratory and immune benefits. This aromatic spice contains compounds like anethole, which possess expectorant properties, aiding in the loosening and expulsion of mucus from the respiratory tract. This makes Star Anise a popular addition to herbal remedies for respiratory conditions, including coughs and congestion. Furthermore, star anise boasts potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat respiratory infections and reduce inflammation in the airways. Its immune-boosting potential is further accentuated by its high antioxidant content, which fortifies the body's defenses against pathogens.

Ginger Root

Ginger, scientifically known as Zingiber officinale, is a versatile root renowned for its combined respiratory and immune-boosting benefits. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it effective in alleviating respiratory ailments, including congestion and coughs. Ginger's warming qualities help soothe the respiratory tract, providing relief from discomfort associated with colds and allergies. Moreover, ginger is rich in antioxidants, particularly gingerol, which strengthens the immune system by combating free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. This dual-action approach enhances the body's defenses against infections and supports overall respiratory health.

Buy dehydrated ginger root here

Clove

Clove's antimicrobial properties make it a valuable ally in the battle against respiratory infections, aiding in relieving symptoms of colds, flu, and bronchitis. Its active compound, eugenol, acts as a natural expectorant, helping to ease congestion and clear mucus from the airways. Furthermore, clove's anti-inflammatory attributes can soothe irritated respiratory passages and reduce inflammation, providing relief from respiratory discomfort.

Cinnamon Stick

Cinnamon sticks offer a harmonious blend of respiratory and immune benefits. Rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, cinnamon sticks help fortify the immune system by neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. This antioxidant-rich spice supports the body's ability to fend off infections and maintain overall well-being. Moreover, cinnamon's anti-inflammatory properties make it valuable for respiratory health by alleviating symptoms of conditions like bronchitis and asthma, thanks to its ability to reduce inflammation in the airways. Cinnamon's natural warming effect can also help soothe respiratory discomfort and ease congestion.

Ceylon Cinnamon vs. Regular Cinnamon

Ceylon cinnamon, also known as "true cinnamon," and regular cinnamon, often referred to as "cassia cinnamon," are two distinct varieties of this popular spice, each with its unique characteristics. The Ceylon cinnamon is renowned for its delicate, sweet flavor, and light tan color. It's known for its subtlety, making it an ideal choice for recipes where the spice should not overpower other flavors. In contrast, regular cinnamon, typically Cassia cinnamon, has a stronger, spicier flavor and a darker reddish-brown color. While both types offer health benefits due to their high levels of antioxidants and potential blood sugar regulation properties, Ceylon cinnamon is considered a safer choice for frequent consumption due to its lower coumarin content, a compound that can be harmful in large quantities.

The choice between Ceylon and regular cinnamon often depends on personal preference and the intended culinary or medicinal use, with Ceylon being favored for its milder taste and potential health benefits.

Raw Honey

Raw local honey is a golden elixir known for its dual respiratory and immune benefits. When sourced locally, honey can contain trace amounts of local pollen, acting as a natural immune booster by helping the body build resistance to local allergens. Moreover, honey possesses potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and protect the respiratory system. It's an effective natural cough suppressant and can provide relief from sore throats and irritation. Honey's viscosity also creates a protective layer in the throat, reducing irritation and promoting a healthier respiratory tract. This versatile sweetener serves as a delicious way to support the immune system and maintain respiratory health.

We are blessed to raise our own bees so our honey comes from our own backyard. To those of you who don't raise bees, be sure to source your local raw honey from a reputable beekeeper. Try farmer's markets in your area, or join a local beekeeping group. I personally don't trust grocery store honey. There is little regulation on honey labeling requirements. Many contain corn syrup and other artificial ingredients. I suggest talking to a local beekeeper, ask about their beekeeping practices, where they're located, and if they use organic methods to raise their bees.

What does Elderberry Syrup taste like?

Elderberries when eaten outright are quite bitter and sour. But in this recipe, the honey makes everything delicious! This syrup tastes very warm and soothing. The berries, once sweetened have sort of a blackberry flavor, maybe a little more earthy. The spices give it the warmth that kind of lingers on the back of the tongue after it's swallowed. I personally think it's delicious and my 6-year-old daughter loves it! She always reminds me that it's time to take her berry juice.

Doses of Elderberry Syrup

Please consult your doctor or pediatrician before taking this elderberry syrup. If elderberry is over consumed it can cause stomach distress.

We start taking Elderberry Syrup as an immune booster at the end of August, or early September. I try to have my syrup made by September 1st. You can take it year-round, but I find that we are seldom sick in the summer, but as we enter into cold and flu season I feel that our bodies need an extra boost.

For immune support:

Children: 1 teaspoon daily with food

Adults: 1 tablespoon daily with food

When actively sick:

Children: 1 teaspoon 3 times a day at each meal

Adults: 1 tablespoon 3 times a day with meals

If I find that the syrup is a bit hard on our stomachs, I space the doses out or skip every other dose until our system gets acclimated.

I started giving this syrup to my daughter when she was 2 years old. I wouldn't give this syrup to children under 2, but consult your pediatrician for more information on appropriate ages.

Utensils

dark colored (amber or blue) bale top bottle

medium saucepan

spoon for stirring

funnel

mesh strainer

measuring cup

kitchen scale

Ingredients

I am lucky that I live near an adorable little herb shop called Hawthorne and Violet, where I can purchase these amazing ingredients. They also sell a kit which has everything you need! If you don't have a local herbalist you can source many of these ingredients at the grocery store. Look for organic varieties where possible. Dehydrated, organic elderberries can be found on Amazon, along with most of the other ingredients and supplies.

4 oz dehydrated organic elderberries

1 Tbsp. dehydrated organic ginger pieces (or a 1-inch section of fresh ginger peeled and sliced)

3-4 organic cinnamon sticks

1 tsp organic whole cloves

6 organic star anise

3 1/2 cups water

1 1/2 cups local honey

Instructions

Place all ingredients in a medium saucepan.

Add 3 1/2 cups water and bring to a simmer.

Simmer uncovered for 30-60 minutes over low heat until the liquid has reduced by half.

Remove from heat and allow to cool to under 110 degrees (this temperature will not kill the beneficial bacteria in the raw honey)

Strain the liquid into a bowl using a mesh strainer. Press the berries to get as much juice as possible.

Add 1 1/2 cups raw honey.

Mix well

Adding the raw organic honey to the elderberry juice

Makes around 3 cups of finished syrup.

Bottle in a bale top bottle ( or any other glass container with a lid.) and store in the refrigerator. Keeps for up to 3 months.