It was time to refill our elderberry syrup stash! So yesterday I spent time in the kitchen cleaning while this magical elixir simmered on the stove. In an effort to stay above the wellness line, we will take 1 TBSP (1 tsp for D man) every or every other day as a general rule to support our immune systems. But if we are feeling a little something coming on….we kick that into high gear and take the same amount every few hours. Elderberry syrup is super simple to make and a no-brainer when trying to keep a family healthy.
So, what’s all the fuss about elderberries? Well, first of all, they are aaaaaamazzzing! But seriously, elderberries are actually extremely rich in vitamins A, B and C and are a traditional cold and flu remedy that has been used for hundreds of years. They are known to have high antioxidant activity and the bioflavonoids and other proteins in the juice of the berry, destroy the ability of a cold or flu virus to infect a cell. And because I am an oil lover, I of course added some immune support powerhouses to this syrup.
Essential Oils Added
* Thieves Vitality – This is an amazing blend of clove, lemon, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata and rosemary. The stories behind this blend are pretty legendary! (google it)
* Ginger Vitality – Supporting our immune systems begins in the gut. Over 90% of the immune system resides there, so using ginger, with it’s ability to stimulate and regulate digestion, only seems natural.
* Nutmeg Vitality – Besides tasting and smelling freaking awesome, this oil is GOOD STUFF.
* Cinnamon Bark Vitality – Already found in the Thieves blend, it is a powerful support to the immune system, so why not.
* Frankincense Vitality – One of the gifts given to Jesus by the Three Wise Men and has been used for centuries. It can stimulate, protect, and maintain the health of the immune system and even stimulate the growth of new cell. It is one of my most prized and used daily oils. 🙂
Time to Make Your Syrup
- 2/3 cup dried black elderberries
- 3 1/2 cups of water
- YL Vitality Essential oils (cinnamon bark, nutmeg, ginger, frankincense, clove, orange)
- 1/2 cup local raw honey
- 1/2 cup manuka honey
Pour water into medium saucepan and add elderberries (do not add honey or EOs)
Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer, covered for about 45 minutes to an hour until the liquid has reduced by almost half. Remove from heat and let liquid cool enough to be handled. Mash the berries carefully using a spoon or other flat utensil. Pour through a strainer, cheesecloth or nut milk bag into a glass jar or bowl. Be sure to squeeze out all of the liquid from the berries.
Discard the elderberries (or compost them!) and let the liquid cool to lukewarm. When it is no longer hot, add 1 cup of honey (you don’t have to use two kinds), and one drop of each essential oil and stir well. (I add extra orange to mine)
When the honey has been well mixed into the elderberry juice, pour the syrup into a quart sized mason jar or large glass bottle of some kind.
Feel free to change up any oil combinations or leave them out altogether to make it your own. Just a small way to support your immune system daily…
Happy making my wellness seekers!
XO,
Callie