By Hanna Bäckmo
Elderberries have long been celebrated for their remarkable health benefits, particularly in strengthening the immune system and aiding in the recovery from cold and flu. Packed with vitamin C and potent antioxidants, elderberry syrup has become a popular natural remedy for respiratory infections. In this comprehensive blog, we will delve into the process of making elderberry syrup and explore its numerous health benefits.
INGREDIENTS
- 2 cups elderberries (fresh, dried, or frozen)
- 2 cups water
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp whole cloves
- 2 cm ginger, freshly grated
- 1 cup honey: wildflower, heather or ivy depending on taste
- 3 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar
OPTIONAL
- 1 tbsp dried thyme or two sprigs of fresh thyme
- Juice from ½ lemon
- 10-20 drops propolis tincture
HOW TO MAKE ELDERBERRY SYRUP
- Place elderberries, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and thyme (if using) in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After 10-15 minutes, add the grated ginger to the saucepan.
- Once the simmering time is complete, remove the cinnamon stick. Mash the berries with a potato masher to release their juice.
- Strain the mixture through a fine sieve, collecting the juice and discarding the pulp.
- Allow the juice to cool to 37 degrees Celsius.
- Stir in the honey, vinegar, and propolis tincture and/or lemon juice (if using) until thoroughly combined.
- Transfer the syrup to a lidded jar or bottle and store it in the refrigerator. It can be kept for 2 to 3 months.
About the Ingredients
Elderberries contain vitamin C, but much of it is destroyed by heat. Adding lemon juice provides an additional vitamin C boost to the syrup. Ensure you use ripe, dark purple elderberries, as they are rich in anthocyanins, which offer numerous health benefits. Additionally, it is important to note that elderberry syrup should only be made from the cooked, ripe, purple-bluish, almost black-colored elderberries to ensure safety.
How to Take Elderberry Syrup
Standard doses for elderberry syrup are typically 1/2 to 1 teaspoon for children and 1 tablespoon for adults, taken 2 to 3 times a day. Remember, elderberry syrup is a home remedy made from natural ingredients and should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment.
Reported Health Benefits of Elderberry Syrup
- Antioxidant and Chronic Disease Protection: Elderberries, rich in anthocyanins and quercetin, are powerful antioxidants that help remove free radicals from the body. Their consumption is associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
- Effective Against the Flu: Compounds found in elderberry fruit are known to inhibit the activity of pathogenic microorganisms like viruses and bacteria. Elderberry syrup has been found effective in treating flu symptoms, with studies showing shortened recovery time and milder symptoms when compared to placebos.
- Remedy for Nasal Congestion, Fever, and Cough: Elderberry preparations, such as syrup, can alleviate nasal congestion, reduce fever, and alleviate cough symptoms. The bioflavonoids and quercetin in elderberries block cold and flu pathogens from infecting cells, providing relief for respiratory tract infections.
- Rich in Vitamin C: While the cooking process destroys the natural vitamin C content in elderberries, adding lemon juice and/or citric acid to the syrup can compensate for this loss. Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and helps fight off infections.
- Allergy and Asthma Relief: Elderberry is believed to alleviate symptoms of allergies and asthma, particularly hay fever. However, it’s essential to consult a doctor before trying elderberry for the first time to rule out any potential allergies.
- Benefits for High Cholesterol and Constipation: Elderberry has shown promise in reducing cholesterol levels, improving digestion, and acting as a mild natural laxative and diuretic.
Conclusion
Elderberry syrup is a remarkable natural remedy that can strengthen the immune system and aid in the recovery from respiratory infections, especially when paired with raw honey. With its antioxidant properties and ability to fight off pathogens, elderberry syrup has gained popularity as a safe and effective alternative to conventional medicines. When prepared correctly and consumed responsibly, elderberry syrup can be a valuable addition to your wellness routine. Harness the power of elderberries and enjoy the benefits of this delicious immune-boosting syrup.
Hanna Bäckmo
Hanna Bäckmo is an award-winning beekeeper, entrepreneur, hobby gardener and internationally published writer. Originally from a small island in Sweden, she now lives in East Cork with her son, two dogs, a flock of rescue chickens and lots of bees. Hanna is the founder of Hanna’s Bees, producing a unique range of natural and sustainable honey, propolis, and beeswax products sold in Ireland’s leading Gift & Artisan food stores and select US outlets. With 70 colonies of Native Irish honeybees, she is a passionate bee-advocate and educator and is an Ambassador for the Native Irish Honeybee.
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