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Homemade Elderberry Syrup

Elderberry syrup has been used for centuries to treat and prevent colds, coughs and mild cases of the flu.  It's easy to make and tastes delicious!

Prep Time
15 mins
Cook Time
15 mins
Total Time
45 mins
Servings: 48 tablespoons
Calories: 25 kcal
Course: Condiments

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quality dried elderberries
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh ginger, peeled
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • 4 teaspoons ground cloves
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup raw honey, local if possible (use raw: non-raw is simply sugar with no health benefits) (raw buckwheat honey has the highest levels of antioxidants)

Instructions

    Cup of Yum
  1. Place all of the ingredients, except for the honey, in a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil then reduce the heat to a low simmer and simmer uncovered for approx. 30 minutes or until the liquid is reduced by roughly half (though that much isn't necessary).  Use a fork or potato masher to mash the berries.
  2. Let the mixture steep for a few minutes, the strain the liquid through a fine sieve or cheesecloth and mash or squeeze the solids to release as much liquid as possible.  You can also use a food mill. Let the liquid cool until room temperature (no hotter than lukewarm) and then stir in the honey.  Makes about 3 cups. 
  3. Store in the refrigerator.  Will keep for at least 2 weeks. 
  4. There is no standard dose for elderberry syrup.  Adults trying to prevent a cold or flu can take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day and increase it to 2 tablespoons 3-4 times a day to treat a cold or flu until the symptoms disappear.  Decrease the dose for children.  If giving to children it's always best to consult your pediatrician.IMPORTANT NOTE:  The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends not giving raw honey to infants younger than 12 months. 

Nutrition Information

Serving 1tablespoon Calories 25kcal (1%) Carbohydrates 6g (2%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 48tablespoons

Amount Per Serving

Calories 25

% Daily Value*

Serving 1tablespoon
Calories 25kcal 1%
Carbohydrates 6g 2%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.