Elderberry syrup: one of the best home remedies for cold and flu

It seems like everyone gets sick around this time of year. So I will be focusing on some of the best home remedies for cold and flu this month. First up, elderberry syrup!

I love elderberry syrup because it can reduce the duration of cold and flu symptoms. And even better, can give your immune system a good boost to prevent you from getting sick. The trick is to make sure you are taking a tablespoon daily.

Although you can buy elderberry syrup at health food stores or even drugstores these days, I highly recommend making your own. Like anything, when you make it yourself you know exactly what’s in it (and how much.) Plus by making your own, you’ll get higher quality ingredients at a lower price.

So enjoy and drink up!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup organic dried elderberries

2 cups water

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

1/2 cup raw, local honey

Instructions:

Combine the elderberries, water, and ginger (if using) in a small saucepan over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and allow the mixture to simmer until the water has been reduced by half, about 20 minutes. Transfer the cooked berries and liquid to a clean bowl and pour it through a fine mesh strainer to remove the berry skins. Use the back of a spoon to press on the berries in the strainer to extract all of the juice, then discard the small amount of pulp left in the strainer. Allow the elderberry juice to cool to room temperature, so that the heat doesn't harm the nutrients in the honey, then stir in the honey. Use a whisk to incorporate it smoothly, then transfer the syrup into a sealed glass jar that you can store in the fridge.

*This syrup should keep well for at least a month when stored in the fridge, but if you don’t think you’ll use it all before then, freeze the rest. Homemade elderberry syrup doesn't become as thick as the store bought version because it uses less sugar and no preservatives or thickeners, so don't be alarmed if the final syrup has a more liquid consistency.