By Alyssa P
CN buyer, herbalism student, beverage enthusiast
It’s that time of the year again when elderberries become the star of the bulk herbs show. Elderberries are known for their immune supporting properties as well as their delicious taste, especially in syrup form. Elderberry syrup is such a fun way to support your immune system and can be taken every day.
This elderberry syrup is inspired by Mountain Rose Herbs’ recipe, a company that supplies many of our bulk herbs and more. Also included is tulsi rama, aka holy basil. Tulsi can act as an immune supporter and is great for stress support as well. The inclusion of tulsi adds some spice and depth of flavor to the syrup and compliments the elderberries well.
Materials
Medium pot
Measuring tools
Strainer and/or cheesecloth
Sterilized glass jar
Ingredients
1 cup dried elderberries
2 cups cold water
2 tsp dried ginger
4 tbs dried tulsi rama
1 half vanilla bean, sliced and scraped
1 half cup raw, local honey
1 half cup vodka or brandy (optional to increase the shelf life of the syrup)
Directions
Add berries. herbs, and cold water to a pot and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and let simmer for 30-40 minutes.
Remove from heat and let steep for 1 hour
Strain berries and herbs using a funnel overlaid with cheesecloth and squeeze out all the liquid. It may still be hot so use caution.
Let liquid cool to a bit warmer than room temperature and stir in honey. Make sure the amount of honey is at least half of the total liquid left (1/2 cup honey for 1 cup liquid). This will help to increase the shelf life. If using vodka or brandy, stir that in as well.
Store in a sterilized glass jar in the fridge. You should be left with about 1-1.5 cups of syrup or a bit more if you added an alcohol.
This syrup can be taken daily to support your immune system. It tastes amazing on its own or you could use it as a base for mixed beverages. I love adding a tablespoon or two of the syrup to a Ruby Hibiscus Sparkling Water- a delicious drink that’s only two ingredients!
P.S. Find the Mountain Rose Herbs Elderberry Syrup Recipe (and video!) here!
The information in this blog post is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.