This simple elderberry syrup recipe is enhanced with immune supporting essential oils and makes a great addition to your winter wellness routine. I know it is time for me to make a batch of this elderberry syrup when the leaves start to fall and frost covers my windows.
Elderberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support a healthy immune system. Studies suggest that it can decrease the duration of undesirable upper airway symptoms when taken within 48 hours of the onset. You can read more research about the benefits of elderberries
here.
Immune supporting essential oils such as cinnamon, OnGuard, and clove have similar immune supporting properties. As colder weather approaches, I am ready with essential oils in my diffuser to purify the air, support a healthy respiratory, and give my immune system a boost. Elderberry + essential oils = immune supporting powerhouse!
The basis of most elderberry syrup recipe includes 3 ingredients...elderberries, raw honey, and water. Elderberries are boiled with water to release a toxin called cyanogenic glycoside. This molecule is deactivate when boiled and is an important reason why dried elderberries should not be consumed without cooking first. After the elderberries and water have boiled and the liquid is reduced to half, allow the mixture to cool to room temp. After cooled, strain liquid into a measuring cup and discard cooked berries. Add raw honey and mix in essential oils for additional health benefits and flavoring. Store sealed in a glass jar or bottle in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Here's my simple 3 ingredient elderberry syrup recipe + essential oils for a happy immune system!
Ingredients:
2 cups water
1/2 cup raw honey
Directions: Bring dried elderberries and water to a boil in a saucepan. Simmer, uncovered until liquid is reduced by half (about 20 minutes). Remove pan from heat and allow to cool to room temp (below 95deg F so you don't disturb the enzymes in your raw honey). Strain liquid from the elderberry mixture into a container and discard boiled elderberries. Mix in raw honey and essential oils into strained liquid. Store sealed in a glass jar or bottle in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Typical dosing is 1 tsp a day for adults and 1/2 a tsp a day for children, seasonally as needed. If I feel undesirable symptoms coming on I take a dose 3x's a day and also increase my essential oil usage until symptoms are gone. Do not give raw honey to kids younger than one year old. This suggested dosing is what I do for myself and family and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please use this info to consult with your physician for the best dosing for you.
Visual learner? I created this video tutorial just for you! Check it out!
I recently updated my recipe for this Elderberry Syrup the main difference is this new recipe has a sweeter taste than the one above and uses different essential oils.
PS. Are you interested in learning how to continue to live a toxin and chemical free life?
If so you can register for my free mini essential oils ecourse
here.