Elderberries come from the Sambucus Nigra plant. They provide numerous health benefits, including the ability to naturally improve colds, the flu, sinus issues, inflammation and allergies. Elderberries give the immune system a natural boost!
A 2016 study published in Nutrients showed that elderberry supplementation can reduce the duration and symptoms of a cold in travelers. The study found that travelers using this herb from 10 days before travel until 4-5 days after arriving experienced on average a two-day shorter duration of their colds.
How Does It Work?
The flavonoids in the elderberry extract are able to bind to the H1N1 human influenza virus as well as the H5N1 avian influenza virus. Studies have shown this allows the extract to be effective in controlling influenza symptoms. Elderberry has natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains Vitamins A, B and C which stimulate the immune system. The complex sugars in elderberries help the body kick illnesses. If you or your children are fighting a cold or the flu, taking elderberry syrup can help your body get back on track. This homemade elderberry syrup also includes cinnamon, ginger and raw honey for an extra immune boost. Not only will you save money on cold and flu medicines, you'll be giving your body a healthy dose of natural medicine, instead of taking your chances with nasty side effects. This recipe makes 16 ounces for under $10! As a bonus, it tastes good too! You should have no problem getting your kids to take it. The standard dosage for children is 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon. The standard dosage for adults is 1/2 tablespoon to 1 tablespoon. You can take it daily to help prevent illnesses, or you can double the amount when you're sick.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe For Cold And Flu Prevention
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup of dried elderberries
- 3 1/2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of fresh or dried ginger root
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of cloves or clove powder
- 1 cup of raw honey
Directions
- Pour 3 1/2 cups of water into a medium saucepan.
- Add elderberries, ginger, cinnamon and cloves.
- Bring the water to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the liquid has reduced by almost half.
- Remove from heat and let it cool enough to be handled.
- Mash the berries using a spoon, then pour through a strainer into a glass jar or bowl.
- Discard the elderberries and let the liquid cool to lukewarm.
- When the water is no longer hot, add 1 cup of honey and stir well.
- When the honey is well mixed into the elderberry mixture, pour the syrup into a pint-sized mason jar or a 16-ounce glass bottle.
- Congrats! You've just made homemade elderberry syrup. Store it in the fridge and take it daily for its immune-boosting properties, or use it as a natural medicine when you're sick.
