elderberry syrup recipe

elderberry syrup-1.jpg

Elderberry Syrup 💜🍯

Autumn has brought a few sniffles into our household, so today I’m busy in the kitchen brewing up potions. This elderberry syrup is a must-have for your herbal kit — gentle enough for toddlers, yet powerful enough for adults.

💕 Ingredients 💕

(All sourced from my local health store 🌿)

  • ⅔ cup dried black elderberries

  • 3 ½ cups water

  • 2 tablespoons fresh or dried ginger root

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder

  • 1 teaspoon cloves (whole or ground)

  • 1 cup local raw honey (or to taste)
    Tip: use Manuka if it’s within budget — but don’t add it until the liquid has cooled, honey doesn’t like heat!

💕 Method 💕

  1. Pour the water into a medium saucepan. Add elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves (leave out the honey for now).

  2. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 45–60 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by almost half.

  3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

  4. Mash the berries gently with a spoon, then strain into a clean glass jar or bowl.

    • Optional: use cheesecloth to squeeze every last bit of goodness out. ✌️

  5. Compost or discard the used elderberries.

  6. Let the liquid cool to lukewarm, then stir in the honey until fully dissolved.

  7. Pour the syrup into a mason jar or glass bottle. Store in the fridge.

💕 How to Use 💕

  • Standard dose:

    • Kids → ½ teaspoon–1 teaspoon daily

    • Adults → ½ tablespoon–1 tablespoon daily

  • If flu hits: Take the same dose every 2–3 hours until symptoms ease.

💡 It’s like a cordial — kids usually love it! I give it to my little one with a dropper, but you can also freeze it into popsicles or ice cube trays.

The honey helps preserve it, and I find it lasts a little over two weeks in the fridge. Share extra with community families in need 💛.