If elderberry syrup isn’t already in your arsenal of cold and flu remedies, it should be. Read on to learn more about the impressive healing powers of black elderberry, how to make elderberry syrup and, of course, how to enjoy it.
Black elderberry for the common cold and flu:
If you’re looking for little boost to help your immune system push through the sniffles, you may be in luck. Studies have determined that black elderberry supplementation may reduce the intensity of cold and flu symptoms, and it is recognized that black elderberry may be a healthy alternative to antibiotics for treating cases of the common cold and influenza.
Elderberry for healthy travel:
If you’re traveling by air for the holidays (or ever), elderberry supplementation may be a healthy precaution to take. In one study, participants traveling by air that had become sick after traveling were assessed. The participants that had taken elderberry during the 10 days prior to traveling and 4 days after arrival at their destination reported significantly lower symptom scores and shorter duration of illness compared to air travelers in the control group that had fallen ill but did not take elderberry.
Bottom Line:
Consuming black elderberry may reduce the severity and symptoms of the common cold and flu. Check with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.
Elderberries are actually quite delicious when you dress them up a bit. Most consider them to be a bit too tart or bitter when raw or plain. Using elderberries as a syrup helps to balance out the flavor with a little sweetness in the form of raw honey and spices like cinnamon and cloves.
This spritzer combines elderberry syrup, sparkling water, lemon, mint and pomegranate seeds. It is so refreshing I could sip on it all day.
Elderberry Spritzer
ingredients:
- 3 1/2 cups water
- 2/3 cups dried black elderberries
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1 cup raw honey
- 1 cup sparkling water
- 1/2 - 1 tablespoons elderberry syrup
- 1 slice of lemon
- 1 tbsp pomegranate seeds
- a few fresh mint leaves
instructions:
How to cook Elderberry Spritzer
- Add elderberries, cinnamon cloves and water to a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the mixture until the liquid has reduced by about half - approximately 1 hour. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Using a spoon or other tool, mash up the berries, then strain the liquid into a new container and discard the berries.
- Add the raw honey, and mix until combined.
- Store in an airtight container and refrigerate.
- Pour 1/2 tablespoon of elderberry syrup into a glass.
- Add 1 cup of sparkling water and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with sliced lemon, mint and pomegranate.