The cold and flu season has begun. What do you do to support your immune system?
Why wait until you are feeling under the weather? Add Elderberry Syrup to your daily routine.
Functional greatness-
Support immune system by taking Elderberry Syrup
You could buy it, but it is so easy to make yourself.
Ingredients
1/2 cup dried elderberries
1/4 cup dried Schisandra berries
3 1/2 cups filter or spring water
1 teaspoon dried cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick
1 teaspoon dried cloves or 1 drop clove essential oil (If using essential oil do not add until liquid has cooled)
1 tablespoon fresh ginger or 1 teaspoon powdered ginger or 1 drop ginger essential oil (If using essential oil do not add until liquid has cooled)
3/4 to 1 cup raw honey
Directions
- In a pot add dried Elderberries, schizandra berries, water, cinnamon, clove, and ginger.
- Bring to boil, cover and simmer for about 45 minutes
- Use sterile glass containers for storage
- Strain berries into container pressing to release all the juices
- Optional: Use several layers of cheesecloth in a strainer to drain. Twist to get out all liquid.
- When the liquid is at room temperature, then it is time to add honey and essential oil if using them. If the elderberry juice is too hot, it will destroy the properties of the honey and essential oils.
- Stir honey until dissolved.
- Pour elderberry syrup into glass containers and store in the refrigerator.
Dosage: Children 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, Adults 1/2 to 1 tablespoon use as daily support. When you feel a cold creeping up on you, take the recommended dosage 3 to 4 times during the day until symptoms disappear.
Store in the refrigerator should keep for several months if it is not gone way before that.
Additional Uses
Use to flavor homemade ginger beer/soda or as a second ferment for kombucha.
Can use on pancakes, waffles or even drizzle on ice cream.
Why use Schisandra berries?
The Chinese have been using the Schisandra berry for more than 2000 years. Schisandra berry has been used for coughing and various lung issues by Chinese. “Wu-Wei-zu” is the Chinese name for the plant which meane “5 taste fruit”. Schisandra berries incorporate the five tastes: sweet, sour, bitter, astringent and salty flavors.
Schisandra Benefits
- Lowers inflammation
- Supports adrenal function
- Improve liver function and digestive health
- Protects the skin
- Improves mental performance
- Helps with healthy sexual function
MounitanRoseHerbs.com is a reputable source to buy both dried elderberries and dried Schisandra berries.
Check out how to make Elderberry Kombucha if you are looking for more information on other health benefits of elderberries along with a special recipe from yours truly!
The information in this article is for informational purposes only. The material presented is not attempting to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Consult with your medical professional regarding your health. Do not stop any medicine prescribed for you. Do not make any changes without consulting your caregiver. If you are pregnant or nursing consults with your healthcare provider before using elderberry syrup.