Elderberry syrup is an effective remedy to protect yourself against viruses. If you do get sick, it will also help to shorten the duration of your illness.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF ELDERBERRIES
Elderberries have powerful bioflavonoids and special proteins that kill viruses on contact. Elderberries are especially helpful for bronchial and respiratory problems since they help the body loosen and expel congestion in the lungs.
Healthline referenced a study where people who took elderberry syrup 4 times a day showed significant improvement in flu symptoms after just 24 hours. In another study, people who took elderberry syrup experienced a shorter duration of illness and less severe symptoms than the control group. Elderberries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants. They also support the immune system by increasing the number of white blood cells.
COOKED ELDERBERRIES ARE SAFE TO EAT
Elderberry leaves, stems, roots and raw seeds are all poisonous. They contain chemicals that metabolize into cyanide: not toxic levels of cyanide, but enough to make you ill. Other edible plants, such as peaches and apples, have similar chemicals in their pits and seeds. Cooking elderberries 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.
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 young immune systems. Elderberry and Kids: What You Need to Know has researched information so you can decide if this popular supplement is right for your family. Take 1 Tbsp of elderberry syrup each day for health maintenance. If you start to feel sick, increase to 1 Tbsp 3 times a day.
MAKING YOUR OWN SYRUP
Elderberry syrup is a powerful herbal remedy that is easy and inexpensive to make. The recipe below uses dried elderberries, which I like to have on hand during the winter months. Organic elderberries and raw honey ensure 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, a small business that sells high quality organic products, or Amazon.
Elderberry syrup
Ingredients
3/4 cup dried elderberries3 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).
2. Cook on medium-high for about 1 hour, until liquid is reduced by half. Remove from heat and cool.
3. Strain the syrup into a bowl, pressing the juice out of the berries with a spoon.
4. Mix in the raw honey and pour into jars. Store in the refrigerator.
Elderberry syrup will last 2-3 week in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it or use this recipe to make Elderberry Popsicles.
If you prefer to purchase elderberry syrup already made, I recommend Gaia Herbs Black Elderberry Syrup.
Have you ever taken elderberry syrup? What natural remedies do you use to keep your immune system strong?
My Medicinal Home 
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