DIY Immune-Boosting Elderberry Syrup
Harness the natural power of elderberries with this easy homemade syrup that supports your immune system and helps ward off flu symptoms. Made with warming spices and raw honey, it’s a tasty and effective way to stay healthy through cold and flu season.
Prep & Total Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients
2/3 cup dried black elderberries
3 ½ cups water
2 tbsp fresh or dried ginger root
1 tsp cinnamon powder
½ tsp cloves or clove powder
1 cup raw honey
Instructions
Pour water into a medium saucepan. Add elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves (do not add honey yet).
Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Let simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until liquid reduces by nearly half.
Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. Mash the berries carefully using a spoon or flat utensil.
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into a glass jar or bowl, discarding the solids.
Let the liquid cool to lukewarm, then stir in the raw honey until fully combined.
Pour syrup into a quart-sized mason jar or a 16-ounce glass bottle. Store in the refrigerator.
Usage
Take daily for immune support:
Kids: ½ tsp to 1 tsp
Adults: ½ tbsp to 1 tbsp
If flu symptoms appear, take the usual dose every 2–3 hours until symptoms subside.
Some recommend taking the syrup on weekdays only to boost immunity.
Notes
Instant Pot Method: Place all ingredients (except honey) in the pot, seal lid, and set on high pressure for 9 minutes. Vent pressure, strain, cool, and then add honey.