Why try elderberry syrup for your cold and flu prevention and remedy?
Elderberries are naturally high in immune-boosting compounds that are specifically shown to help beat the cold and flu more quickly.
There is certainly a time and a place for conventional medicine and doctors visits. Unfortunately, there isn’t much that conventional medicine can do for a common cold or even a mild case of the flu. My personal strategy has been to keep us all as healthy as possible so that we can avoid going to the doctor during cold and flu season! Maybe it’s paranoia, but I can almost feel the germs on me when we enter a doctor’s office in the middle of winter so we do all we can to stay away.
**If you or someone in your care has been sick for days without improvement and is not keeping down fluids, it is important to see a doctor to avoid dehydration which can lead to very serious complications.
Elderberries contain vitamins A, B, and C and have been shown to stimulate the immune system. A team of Israeli researchers found that the complex sugars in elderberries support the immune system in fighting the cold and flu. Their research found that elderberries help to stop the enzyme viruses use to penetrate healthy cells in the lining of the nose and throat. When taken before infection, it prevents infection. When taken after infection, it prevents the spread of the virus through the respiratory tract. In a clinical trial, 20% of study subjects reported significant improvement within 24 hours, 70% by 48 hours, and 90% claimed complete cure in three days. In contrast, subjects receiving the placebo required 6 days to recover.
Why make your own elderberry syrup?
- Save a ton of money! One little bottle costs about $25. Most 2 lb. bags of berries cost about $20 (making 4 batches of syrup). I purchased these from Amazon.
- Control the ingredients (many syrups are very high in sugar or artificial sweeteners) and other additives
- Control the dosing
- Have it on hand when you need it – no rushing to the store at night when someone comes down with the sniffles!
To make a proper batch of safe and effective elderberry syrup, you will need:
100 g dried elderberries
1-2 quarts cold distilled water
1/2 cup raw honey (or to taste)
plus whatever flavorings you choose
I add 1 teaspoon each of cinnamon, cloves and fresh ginger to my syrup. Here’s why:
Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory properties, may cut the risk of heart disease, can improve sensitivity to insulin, can lower blood sugar levels.
Cloves are high in antioxidants, may protect against cancer, can kill off bacteria, may improve liver health, may help regulate blood sugar and reduce stomach ulcers.
Ginger aids in digestion, helps relieve GI irritation and nausea, has been shown effective in cold and flu relief, pain reduction, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
I think this combination of spices with the elderberry makes a great tasting syrup. My kids prefer it without the spices. I’d suggest trying it both ways and figuring out what you like best.
How to make your syrup:
Combine the berries and water and any spices in a large (cold) saucepot. Place over medium-high heat and gradually bring to a boil. Once a rolling boil has been reached, reduce heat to a simmer and continue to cook for 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mixture has reduced to 2 cups. Do not cover the pot during this phase. This process cannot be shortened as it is crucial for eliminating the cyanide-like toxin in the seeds.
Strain the concentrated extract and measure the liquid. It should be approximately 2 cups. (If you have less than 2 cups, water can be added to reach 2 cups. If you have more than two cups, continue boiling the mixture down. It is crucial to have a 2-cup measurement at this state to ensure accurate dosing.) Place syrup back in your pot and add sweetener. Bring back to a boil and continue to boil for approximately 10 minutes or until reduced back to 2 cups. Allow to cool slightly and pour into a glass storage container. Store in the refrigerator.
You can watch the video preparation of elderberry syrup here:
Dosing:
For adults as preventative: 15 mL per day, 5-6 days per week
For adults as treatment for active infections: 15 mL 4 times per day
For children as preventative: 5 – 10 mL per day (my 60 lb. child take 5 mL and my 100 lb. child takes 10 mL), 5-6 days per week
For children as treatment for active infections: some dose as above 3-4 times per day
Sources: https://fsihs.org/proper-elderberry-syrup/
https://normsfarms.com/blogs/elderberry-and-your-health/how-much-elderberry-should-i-take
http://abc.herbalgram.org/site/DocServer/Elderberry-scr.pdf?docID=165