Everyone’s been talking about elderberry syrup, so I had to try it myself! It’s Back to School season, so the more wellness tools we have, the better. As a mama, I’ll take any immune support I can.

WHY ELDERBERRIES?

First off, I’m not a doctor. But, a quick internet search makes it easy to understand why so many people are raving about elderberries! Turns out elderberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that may help to strengthen your immune system, lower your blood sugar, promote healthy digestion, reduce wrinkles, and more. They contain vitamins A, B, and C and complex sugars that support and stimulate the immune system. They may also help to avoid minor illnesses and shorten the duration if you were to get one.

ELDERBERRY SYRUP

Buying quality elderberry syrup can add up quick, so I decided to try my hand at making my own with some friends. We had so much fun even though we had a couple mishaps! The good thing is that even if you make a mistake, you can still wind up with some delicious syrup.

It might be best known for its wellness benefits, but if you wanted to add the syrup to some sparkling water or to flavor your favorite drink, I would totally understand! When I got together with friends to make it, we also talked about how amazing it would taste drizzled over pancakes! I don’t think anyone would have an issue with adding some immune support to their pancakes, right?

Ready to add another tool to your wellness cabinet?

HERE’S HOW

INGREDIENTS

2/3 cup elderberries
3 cups water
1 cup local raw honey (has antiviral and antibacterial properties)
8 oz. glass bottle
Essential oils (check out some options below)

ESSENTIAL OILS
add your faves to your syrup (I like a drop of each per batch)

Thieves Vitality: blend of Clove, Lemon, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus Radiata, and Rosemary that is pretty dang powerful + an amazing for immune support
Clove Vitality: tons of antioxidants
Nutmeg Vitality: smells and tastes amazing; powerful adrenal support
Ginger Vitality: stimulates and regulates digestion aka supports the gut , where over 90% of the immune system can be found
Orange Vitality: contains the naturally occurring constituent limonene; supports healthy digestion
Frankincense Vitality: overall wellness bringer; google it

NEED OILS? CLICK HERE!

STOVETOP RECIPE

Add water and elderberries to a medium saucepan (be sure to remove all stems).
Bring to a boil.
Cover and reduce heat. Simmer for about 45 minutes or until the liquid is reduced by half. If you’re making a larger batch, you will need to adjust the time accordingly.
While your berries simmer, mix your Vitality oils into your honey.
When the berries are reduced to a syrup (by half), remove from heat.
Once they have cooled, mash the berries and pour through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl.
Discard the berries.
When no longer hot, stir in your honey/essential oils.
Store in two 8 oz. airtight containers in the fridge.

INSTANT POT RECIPE

Add water and elderberries to a medium saucepan (be sure to remove all stems).

Place water and elderberries in the Instant Pot.
Choose manual pressure for 7-10 minutes.
While your berries cook, mix your Vitality oils into your honey.
Quick Release pressure.
Strain into a bowl with a mesh strainer, and press berries to release all juices.
Discard the berries.
When no longer hot, stir in your honey/essential oils.
Store in two 8 oz. airtight containers in the fridge.

FAQs

How do I use elderberry syrup?
Depending on where you look, you’ll find a variety of answers. The most common recommendation is for adults to have 1 Tbsp each day or every few days and hourly at the onset of something and for kids to have 1 tsp daily or every few days and hourly at the onset of something.

Can I eat raw elderberries?
Do not eat raw elderberries as they can be poisonous. The stems, leaves, and uncooked seeds are toxic and should NOT be eaten. Cooking the berries makes the seeds safe for consumption.

Is elderberry syrup safe for babies?
Since this recipe includes honey, it is not recommended for children younger than one.

How long does the syrup last?
It can last up to 6 months in the fridge, but ours will be gone before that!