Maybe some of you know that Caden was sick a few weeks ago and I cured him naturally without taking him to the dr. I am still pretty proud of myself. I ordered some herbs with a friend and decided I would make my own elderberry syrup. Its cheaper and I can add what I want to it. Thought I would share the recipe and the ins and outs of it all. xoxo enjoy!
Lets start with
"What is an Elderberry?"
Great question!
Elderberries contain organic pigments, tannin, amino acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, sugar, rutin, viburnic acid, vitaman A and B and a large amount of vitamin C. They are also mildly laxative, a diuretic, and diaphoretic. Flavonoids, including quercetin, are believed to account for the therapeutic actions of the elderberry flowers and berries. According to test Elderberry's are powerful antioxidants and protect cells against damage. Elderberries were listed in the CRC Handbook of Medicinal Herbs as early as 1985, and are listed in the 2000 Mosby's Nursing Drug reference for colds, flu, yeast infections, nasal and chest congestion, and hay fever. In Israel, Hasassah's Oncology Lab has determined that elderberry stimulates the body's immune system and they are treating cancer and AIDS patients with it. The wide range of medical benefits (from flu and colds to debilitating asthma, diabetes, and weight loss) is probably due to the enhancement of each individual's immune system.
I know right! Who knew?
This stuff is powerful and it doesn't have the nasty reactions as most drugs. I also am in favor of anything that is God given.
So here we go.
Here are the herbs. They are from Bulk Herb Store and they have had pretty much anything I have looked up. If not, they have an option where you can sign up to be notified when they are back in stock. LOVE that option.
This is the mixture. The colors are so beautiful.
Brought to a boil and then simmered uncovered for 20-30 minutes.
After its done cooking you strain the mixture through cheese cloth. SQUEEZE that juice out!
Add some raw honey...and there you go! Its the best flu syrup you can get! promise!
Here is the recipe:
1/4 cup dried Elderberries
2 Tablespoons dried Rose Hips
2 Tablespoons dried Echinacea
3/4 Teaspoon dried ginger root
1 cinnamon stick
1 Cup filtered water
1/2 cup local raw honey.
Bring first six ingredients to a boil, then let herbs simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. The water will reduce by half. Pour mixture through a mesh strainer or cheese cloth. Press the mixture to squeeze juice out. Discard the herbs. Let syrup cool until you can touch it. Then add honey.
Note: for children younger than 1 year, honey isn't recommended. You can substitute maple syrup or agave nectar.
Dosage: Children take 1-2 tsp a day. Adults take 1-4 tsp a day.
Enjoy!
xoxo
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