Creating Elderberry Syrup for Powerful Immune Support

Elderberries are one of the most popular herbal remedies I turn to during the cooler months. Not only are they immune-boosting, but they are also delicious in various recipes. From DIY elderberry marshmallows to tea and even kombucha, there are plenty of ways to incorporate these beneficial berries into your routine. This simple elderberry syrup recipe is a fantastic way to reap all the benefits elderberries have to offer!

The dried berries of the Sambucus nigra plant are rich in antioxidants that can help with colds and flu. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of remedies, with elderberry syrup being one of my favorites.

Elderberry: A Natural Remedy for Colds and Flu?

While there is a time and place for conventional medicine and doctor visits, they may not always be effective for common colds or mild cases of the flu. If you or your child has experienced a rough case of the common cold or the flu, you know how miserable it can be. As a parent, it can be heartbreaking to see your children feeling unwell and not being able to do much about it. Luckily, nature has provided us with remedies that can help alleviate symptoms and even shorten the duration of these illnesses.

Research has shown that black elderberries (Sambucus nigra) can help prevent colds and flu and even speed up recovery time for those who are already sick. Elderberries also provide relief from discomfort during minor illnesses.

Benefits of Elderberry

Elderberries naturally contain vitamins A, B, and C, and are known to stimulate the immune system. Israeli researchers have found that elderberries are effective in combating colds and flu. The complex sugars in elderberries have been clinically shown to support the immune system and can reduce recovery time significantly!

Dr. Madeleine Mumcuoglu of Hadassah-Hebrew University in Israel discovered that elderberry disarms the enzyme viruses use to enter healthy cells in the nose and throat lining. When taken before infection, it can prevent infection. When taken after infection, it can prevent the spread of the virus through the respiratory tract. In a clinical trial, 20% of participants reported significant improvement within 24 hours, 70% within 48 hours, and 90% claimed complete recovery in three days. In contrast, those receiving a placebo took six days to recover.

Elderberry Syrup Recipe With Honey

Elderberry syrup offers concentrated immune-supporting benefits of black elderberries while also being delicious. This recipe combines homemade elderberry concentrate with synergistic herbs like cinnamon and ginger, along with raw honey for an added immune boost. If you cannot or do not want to use honey, there are substitution suggestions provided below the recipe.

Start by gathering your ingredients, including grated ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, elderberries, and raw honey. You can also use cinnamon sticks and whole cloves instead. Then, follow the steps outlined in the recipe to make the elderberry syrup.

Once the syrup is ready, strain it and transfer it to a glass jar or bottle. Store it in the fridge and take it daily for its immune-boosting properties. You can also use this elderberry syrup in various recipes like elderberry panna cotta, ice cream toppings, or pancake syrups.

Why Make Your Own Elderberry Syrup?

There are several reasons to make your own elderberry syrup. Not only can you save money by making it at home, but you can also customize the recipe to suit your preferences and health needs. Store-bought elderberry syrups can be expensive and may not provide the same level of customization that homemade versions offer. Additionally, if you have fresh or frozen elderberries on hand, you can easily double the amount used in the recipe to make your syrup.

Elderberry Syrup Recipe

A simple elderberry syrup recipe made with dried elderberries, honey, and herbs for immune-boosting and delicious syrup. Can be used medicinally or on homemade pancakes or waffles.

Pour the water into a medium saucepan and add the elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.

Bring to a boil and then uncover and reduce to a simmer for about 30 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.

Remove from heat and let cool until it’s lukewarm.

Mash the berries carefully using a spoon or other flat utensil.

Pour through a strainer or cheesecloth into a glass jar or bowl. Discard the elderberries.

When the liquid is no longer hot, add the cup of honey and stir well.

When the honey is well mixed into the elderberry mixture, pour the syrup into a  mason jar or glass bottle of some kind.

Ta-da! You just made homemade elderberry syrup! Store in the fridge and take daily for its immune-boosting properties.

Nutrition Facts

Elderberry Syrup Recipe

Amount Per Serving (1 teaspoon)

Calories 14

% Daily Value*

Fat 0.01g0%

Saturated Fat 0.001g0%

Polyunsaturated Fat 0.004g

Monounsaturated Fat 0.001g

Sodium 1mg0%

Potassium 7mg0%

Carbohydrates 4g1%

Fiber 0.1g0%

Sugar 3g3%

Protein 0.03g0%

Vitamin A 7IU0%

Vitamin C 0.5mg1%

Calcium 1mg0%

Iron 0.04mg0%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Instant Pot option: Put all the ingredients except honey in the Instant Pot. Seal the lid, and set manually for 9 minutes on high pressure. Vent pressure and strain. When cooled to room temperature stir in the honey.
Standard dose is ½ – 1 teaspoon for kids and ½ – 1 tablespoon for adults. If the flu does strike, take the normal dose every 2-3 hours instead of once a day until symptoms disappear.

More of a Visual Person?

If you prefer visual instructions, watch the one-minute tutorial video on how to make elderberry syrup:

What Does Elderberry Syrup Look/Taste Like?

Elderberry syrup can taste a little sour on its own, similar to grape juice. However, the addition of honey transforms it into a sweet and tasty syrup. Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade syrup may be thinner in consistency.

What’s the Difference Between Elderberry Syrup and Elderberry Juice?

This recipe creates a concentrated elderberry tea or syrup mixed with honey. Elderberry juice, on the other hand, is simply the juice extracted from fresh elderberries.

How Long Does Homemade Elderberry Syrup Last?

The shelf life of homemade elderberry syrup can vary. By sealing the finished syrup in a mason jar while warm, you can extend its life in the fridge for several months. Generally, it can last up to two weeks when refrigerated. Unused portions can be frozen in ice cube trays for future use.

Fresh Elderberry Syrup Recipe

If you have access to fresh elderberries, you can harvest them and make your own syrup. It’s essential to ensure you’re using the correct plant and to consult with a local herbalist for guidance. Harvest only the berries, as the stems and leaves are toxic.

Where is the Best Place to Order Elderberries?

If you don’t have a local source for elderberries, consider ordering them online from a reputable source. It’s recommended to order early, as elderberries may be in high demand come Fall. You can choose from wildcrafted or organic elderberries online.

What is Elderberry Syrup Used For?

Elderberry syrup can be used preventatively by taking a small dose daily during cold and flu season. If illness strikes, you can increase the dosage until symptoms improve. Elderberry syrup is commonly used for immune support and offers a range of health benefits year-round.

The unique flavor of elderberry syrup makes it a versatile ingredient in various recipes. Consider using it in desserts like panna cotta, as a topping for ice cream or pancakes, or to make elderberry gummies.

How Much Elderberry Syrup Should You Take Daily?

The recommended dosage of elderberry syrup can vary depending on individual needs. Consult with an herbalist or healthcare provider for personalized guidance. As a general guideline, adults can take 1 teaspoon daily, while children can take half of that amount. During illness, the dosage can be doubled or tripled.

Elderberry Syrup Ingredients and Substitutes

This elderberry syrup recipe uses raw, local honey, but store-bought raw honey is also suitable. Fresh ginger is preferable, but powdered ginger can be used as a substitute. Cinnamon sticks and whole cloves can also replace ground versions of these herbs. If using powdered elderberries, adjust the quantity accordingly.

Is There a Substitute For Honey in Elderberry Syrup?

If you prefer not to use honey, you have several alternatives:

• Use maple syrup or molasses instead of honey.
• Omit the sweetener for a more concentrated elderberry juice.
• Create an elderberry tincture by mixing the concentrated syrup with alcohol for a sweetener-free option.

Can I Reuse the Elderberries?

It is not recommended to reuse the elderberries after making the syrup. The boiling and mashing process extracts most of the nutrients from the berries, and consuming them in large quantities may not be advisable. Explore other elderberry recipes, such as elderberry kombucha and elderberry tea, to make the most of these beneficial berries.

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