Hey there, fellow homesteaders! Welcome back to The Honeystead. Today, I've run out of my beloved Elderberry syrup, and it dawned on me that I've never taken you along for the process of making it.
Here's what you'll need:
- 1 cup of dried Elderberry
- 1/4 cup of dried sumac (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of ginger
- 2 tablespoons of clove
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
- 6 cups of water
- 2 cups of raw honey
First, combine the Elderberry, sumac, ginger, clove, and cinnamon in a pot. Add six cups of water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for at least 30 minutes.
After simmering, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Strain the mixture using cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer, then return it to the pot. Add two cups of raw honey and stir until fully combined after cooled.
Transfer your homemade Elderberry syrup to a quart-sized mason jar and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for 2-3 months.
Elderberry syrup is renowned for its immune-boosting properties, making it perfect for cold and flu season. The combination of Elderberry, ginger, cinnamon, and clove creates a delicious and warming concoction that can help soothe sore throats and alleviate cold symptoms.
If you're interested in foraging, consider adding sumac berries to your syrup for an extra medicinal boost. Just be sure to properly identify the plant and harvest responsibly.
Dosage-wise, you can take a tablespoon a day for general immune support, or a teaspoon every 2-3 hours if you're feeling under the weather.
Let's look ant the benefits:
Elderberry:- Immune-Boosting Goodness: Elderberries are like nature's little superheroes, packed with antioxidants and vitamins to give your immune system the boost it needs. Perfect for kicking colds and flu to the curb!
- Antiviral All-Star: Elderberries come armed with compounds that battle viruses, helping to shorten the duration and intensity of pesky infections.
- Soothing Inflammation: Say goodbye to inflammation woes with elderberries by your side. They're like a soothing balm for your body, keeping inflammation at bay and promoting overall wellness.
- Antioxidant Powerhouse: Sumac berries are like tiny treasure troves of antioxidants, protecting your body from free radicals and oxidative stress.
- Anti-Inflammatory Wonder: Just like elderberries, sumac knows how to calm inflammation and keep your body feeling its best.
- Tummy Tamer Extraordinaire: Ginger is the ultimate digestive superhero, soothing upset stomachs and banishing bloating with its zesty kick.
- Immunity Booster: Ginger packs a punch when it comes to supporting your immune system, helping you fend off those nasty bugs and stay healthy all year round.
- Pain-Relief Champ: Clove is your go-to for knocking out pain, whether it's a toothache or a sore throat. It's like a little miracle worker in spice form!
- Germ Fighter: Clove doesn't mess around when it comes to germs. With its antimicrobial powers, it's like having a personal bodyguard against bacteria and viruses.
- Blood Sugar Balancer: Cinnamon is like a balancing act for your blood sugar, helping to keep levels steady and your energy levels on point.
- Germ-Fighting Warrior: Cinnamon doesn't just make your kitchen smell amazing – it's also a fierce fighter against all sorts of pathogens, keeping you healthy and happy.
And there you have it – homemade Elderberry syrup straight from The Honeystead Apothecary! Thanks for joining me on this homesteading adventure, and remember, don't be afraid to get your hands dirty and learn something new! Until next time, happy homesteading!
Kaylee Richardson