Taking elderberry syrup is an effective remedy to protect yourself from viruses. If you do get sick, it will help to shorten the duration of your illness. But you may have heard that elderberries are poisonous. Let me explain.

COOKED ELDERBERRIES ARE SAFE TO EAT

Elderberry leaves, stem, root and raw seeds are poisonous to humans.  They have chemicals that metabolize into cyanide making you ill.  Other edible plants have similar chemicals in their pits and seeds like peaches and apples. Cooking the berries makes the fruit completely safe to eat. Cooked elderberries are not poisonous.  Are Elderberries Safe to Eat, Or Are They Poisonous? has additional helpful information about elderberries.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF ELDERBERRIES

Elderberries, according to Anthony William,  have powerful bioflavonoids and special proteins that kill viruses on contact. They have the ability to boost the immune system by increasing the production of cytokines. Elderberries are especially helpful for bronchial and respiratory problems helping the body loosen and expel congestion in the lungs.

Healthline referenced a study of people taking elderberry syrup 4 times per day showing significant improvement of flu symptoms after just 24 hours. Another study showed shorter durations of illness with less severe symptoms from the control group.  Elderberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. It also support the immune system by increasing the number of white blood cells.

IS ELDERBERRY SYRUP SAFE FOR KIDS?

The simple answer is yes! I wish I would have known about elderberry syrup when my kids were young.  I think it’s a powerful way to boost their immune systems. Elderberry and Kids: What You Need to Know has well researched information to help you decide if this popular supplement is right for your family. 

MAKING YOUR OWN SYRUP

Elderberry syrup is a powerful herbal remedy that’s easy and inexpensive to make. The recipe below uses dried elderberries, which I have on hand during the winter months. Using organic elderberries and raw honey ensures that I’m making a safe and powerful herbal medicine for my family.  I often double this recipe and share it with family and friends.

Watch the video below the recipe to see how easy it is to make your own Elderberry Syrup!

I purchase dried organic elderberries from either Mountain Rose Herbs or at Amazon. Here is the Amazon link for the berries I use: USDA Certified Organic Dried Elderberries (1lb – Bulk) For Making Elderberry Syrup Kit – Natural Sambucus Nigra, Free Of Chemicals, non-GMO, Whole Black Elder Berry Immune System Support Booster – Cook Gummies, Jelly, Tea, and Wine – Raw, Vegan

If you prefer to purchase Elderberry Syrup already made, I would recommend Gaia Herbs. Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup – Daily Immune Support with Antioxidants, Organic Sambucus Elderberry Supplement, 5.4 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

Take one tablespoon of elderberry syrup each day for health maintenance. If you start to feel sick increase to one tablespoon three times a day as recommended by Anthony William. 

Elderberry syrup

• Servings: makes 1-2 cups
• Print

Credit: https://www.medicalmedium.com/blog/elderberry-syrup

Ingredients

3/4 cup dried elderberries
3 cups water
3/4 cup raw honey
Optional additions:
1 cinnamon stick
1 whole star anise
1/4 tsp. whole cloves

Directions

• Place the dried elderberries and water in a medium-sized saucepan (with optional spices).
  
• Cook on medium-high for about 1 hour, until liquid is reduced by half. Remove from heat and cool.
  
• Strain the syrup into a bowl, pressing the juice out of the berries with a spoon.
  
• Mix in the raw honey and pour into jars. Store in the refrigerator.

For health maintenance, enjoy 1 Tbsp. per day. For assistance in recovering from a cold or flu, enjoy 1 Tbsp. 3 times per day.