Its that time of the year again to make Elderberry Syrups!!
Elderberry is a natural remedy with three flavonoids that have antiviral properties. Flavonoids are very effective against different strains of influenza virus. Black Elderberry also has other compounds, called anthocyanins, which have an anti-inflammatory effect, thus reducing aches and pains. Elderberries contain flavonoids, which are natural chemical substances that give food their taste and color; they also boost the immune system, and supply the body with antioxidant protection.
Elderberry has been shown to be very effective against at least eight strains of flu virus
Why pay $12.89 for a small 4oz bottle when you can do it your self. I usually bottle or freeze mine for medicinal uses. This year I'm trying it w/ ginger root. I'm also putting aside some for wine making!!
You can use the syrup in many ways. I give my kids a teaspoon everyday, to prevent colds. Elderberry syrup great in a glass of sparkling water over ice, dripped some over plain yogurt, atop of vanilla ice cream, pancakes and waffles! You can also use the berries to make Elderberry jelly. Oh yes when I make fruit leather I add some syrup into the mix. Yummy!
Here's a recipe
Elderberry Syrup
Makes 1 quart
Make sure the cookware you're using is non-reactive and your clothes are stain-friendly. If you use an Stainless Steel pot,note spatulas and anything else to plan to use to stir the syrup while it's cooking will stain!
2-pounds (1kg) elderberries (see note below), woody stems removed and rinsed
4 cups (1l) water
2½ (500g) cups sugar
one nice-sized squirt of freshly-squeezed lemon juice(optional)
1. Put the elderberries in a large, non-reactive pot with the water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a low boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, until tender and soft.
2. Pass through a food mill, or cheese cloth and squeeze then discard the skins.
3. Pour the juice back into the pot (I use a fine-mesh strainer again at this point, but I'm crazy...), add sugar, and cook at a low boil over moderate heat for 15 minutes, until the syrup has thickened. Add a spritz of lemon juice. Cool completely.
4. Pour into a bottle or jar and store in the refrigerator. Can or Freeze
More goods on Uses & Benefits Of Elderberry
•Elderberry used for kidney problems, urinary problems, eliminating excess water from the body and Inflammatory Conditions.
•Elderberry may be helpful in arthritic and rheumatic complaints.
•Elderberry flowers tea use to treat respiratory infections.
•It is also used for fighting influenza and colds as an excellent internal cleanser.
•Elderberry helps in relieves asthma, bronchitis, sore throat, colds and influenza.
***Only those with blue/black berries are medicinal. The flowers and berries are both used.
Happy Well being~
