“Elderberries are tasty cold and flu fighters. They contain compounds that inhibit the enzyme flu viruses from penetrating our cell membranes and also prevent the virus from invading respiratory tract cells. Taken early enough, as a tea or tincture, you may be able to head off an upcoming illness before it becomes a full-blown flu. They are especially good for bronchitis, colds, coughing, and influenza. Also contains substances that ease inflammation and pain and soothe the intestines, thus making them useful in all inflammatory bowel diseases. It is known to have a gentle laxative action, and their mild tonic action helps to arrest diarrhea.” ~Bulk Herb Store
I decided to make some elderberry syrup for my family to have on hand at the first sign of sniffles and as an overall immune booster. I’m not big on pharmaceuticals, but when your little one is sick it’s so frustrating that there’s technically nothing you could give them except Tylenol. However, Tylenol does not help with sniffles. My 2.5 year old has a cold right now, and it’s nice to be able to do something.
Below are the step by step instructions so you can do it too!
NOTE: If you are looking to make elderberry syrup in the instant pot, head on over here.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried elderberries or 1 cup fresh elderberries
- 3 cups of water
- 1/2 cup honey
Step 1: Pour elderberries and water in to a pot of water. Bring to a boil.
Step 2: Reduce heat to medium or medium low so that the berries are no longer boiling but simmering. Keep on the stove for about an hour. Notice how the water is evaporating – that’s what you want to have happen! While the berries are simmering, stir occasionally and with a spoon mash berries on the side of the pot so that it gets really mixed up.
Step 3: Carefully pour the liquid through a strainer into a glass jar. Mash the strained berries to get all the liquid out and down into the jar.
Step 4: Slowly pour the honey into the jar. Since the berry liquid is hot the honey should mix easily.
Storage: Store the syrup in the refrigerator up to three months. Use daily for maximum benefit.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe Dosage Instructions
For Daily Maintenance: Adults: Take 2 teaspoons daily, Children: Take 1 teaspoon daily.
For Intensive Use: Adults: Take 1 tablespoon four times daily, Children: Take 1 tablespoon two times daily.
How to Make Instant Pot Elderberry Syrup | Mother Rising
Thursday 14th of February 2019
[…] been making elderberry syrup at home for years. In fact, I’ve even made elder syrup for my babies. Obviously, I’m totally late […]
Elderberry Syrup for Babies |Mother Rising
Thursday 11th of February 2016
[…] elderberry syrup recipes call for honey, but for babies under one honey is contraindicated. This recipe is a perfect way make elderberry […]
Denise
Friday 9th of October 2015
Making my umteenth batch of this since you posted it years ago. Yay cold and flu season.
Lindsey Morrow
Thursday 11th of February 2016
Stay heathy!! :)
Homemade Facial Cleanser
Monday 15th of September 2014
[…] a healthier and safer alternative to store bought products (my herbal remedy for pregnancy anemia, elderberry syrup and Aveda Tea are great examples!). Store bought products need to have a shelf life and along with […]
Beverly
Monday 20th of February 2012
Is this safe to take while pregnant? I have been battling sore throat, cough and congestion for a week and a half now and all the doctor said I could take is Robitussin DM but I would really prefer not to take it but I am so miserable :(
Lindsey Morrow
Tuesday 21st of February 2012
Yes! In Susun Weed's book, Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Year, she mentions it as an excellent source of calcium. Drink up! (try a Netti Pot too)