Warm & Zesty Elderberry Syrup
In the pursuit of natural wellness, few ingredients rival the effectiveness of elderberries. This recipe elevates the classic elderberry syrup by incorporating rose hips and fresh ginger to create a broader spectrum of immune support. Simmered slowly to extract maximum potency and sweetened with raw honey, this syrup preserves the delicate enzymes of the honey while delivering a concentrated dose of phytonutrients. It is an essential addition to any home apothecary, ready to be used at the first sign of seasonal sniffles.
Preparation Time: 5 Minutes
45 Minutes - 1 Hour
Serves: ~ 24
Ingredients
2 cups water
½ cup elderberries, dried
¼ cup rose hips, dried
1 tbsp ginger, fresh
1 cinnamon stick
1 tsp orange zest (optional, but tasty)
1 cup honey
Directions
Combine ingredients
In a small saucepan, add the water, dried elderberries, rose hips, sliced ginger, and cinnamon stick.
Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it gently simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the liquid has reduced to approximately 1 cup.
Steep
Remove from heat. Stir in the orange zest, cover with a lid, and let steep for 5–10 minutes to infuse the citrus flavour.
Strain
Using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain out the herbs. Gently press or squeeze the solids to extract as much liquid as possible. Note: Ensure herbs are warm, not hot, before handling to avoid burns.
Sweeten
While the liquid is still warm (not boiling), stir in the honey until fully dissolved. Adding honey to very hot liquid can degrade its beneficial enzymes.
Store
Transfer to a clean glass jar or bottle. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Use within 4 weeks.
Suggested Use
Adults 1 tbsp up to 3x a day, with water
Children 1 tsp up to 3x a day, with water