What are elderberries?

Elderberries are small, black-purple berries that belong to the sambus tree, also known as the European elderberry or black elder. The berries can be used as a syrup for medicinal purposes, which may have some potential health benefits.

What is Elderberry Syrup? 
Elderberry Syrup is a natural anti-viral and remedy to the common cold and flu. Elderberry syrup is known as a powerful cold preventative and remedy. Just one cup of berries contains about 40% of the recommended daily value of vitamin C. It's also a great source of antioxidants — which may protect your cells from damage and help prevent heart disease and cancer.

Does Elderberry Syrup Really Work?

This natural remedy for the common cold and flu has gained traction over the years. The dark purple berry is said to have powerful natural antiviral effects that can help prevent or lessen the symptoms of the flu and common cold. In addition there are other possible benefits to Elderberry Syrup include managing diabetes, reducing inflammation and acting as a natural diuretic. In addition to the potent elderberry, this recipe also contains raw honey which also has natural anti-fungal and antibacterial properties. When paired together, elderberry and raw honey is said to be a great way to naturally fight the common cold and flu.

Is Elderberry Syrup Safe?

Yes, if prepared properly! There is a toxin in the dried berries that is deactivated by proper cooking. Also if you have any concerns about taking this natural culinary remedy speak to your doctor. This is especially true if you have an autoimmune disorder, so consult your doctor before taking it if you have any questions whether this is right for you.

This recipe contains raw honey so this is not safe for children under 1 years of age to consume.

5 Main health benefits of elderberry syrup:

1. May help to reduce symptoms of the flu

2. May help to support a healthy immune system

It may help support a healthy immune system by increasing inflammatory cytokines production – cytokines are a group of proteins that are secreted by specific cells of the immune system.

3. May help to reduce the risk of chronic disease

Elderberry is naturally high in vitamin C, the body’s most abundant antioxidant, which not only helps reduce the risk of chronic disease, but may also be good for those with high blood pressure, and prevent iron deficiency anemia. 

4. May offer some neuroprotective benefits

The dark black-purple colour of the elderberry means it's a good source of compounds known as anthocyanins, which have been shown to protect the brain. 

5. May help to improve exercise performance

Elderberry has been shown to improve exercise performance, so this may be also be relevant to those consuming elderberry syrup.

What is Raw Honey Good For

The phytonutrients in honey are responsible for its antioxidant properties, as well as its antibacterial and antifungal power. Raw honey has shown immune-boosting and anticancer benefits, but heavy processing destroys these valuable nutrients, so we like to buy the best quality we can find! We also don’t call for cooking the raw honey in this recipe as cooking it decreases / eliminates the benefits that raw honey offers.

How do I Take Elderberry Syrup when Sick

Some people take 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of Elderberry Syrup during the cold and flu season daily, and then increase this dosage to once every 2-3 waking hours at the very first sign of illness or known exposure to the cold or flu, for 2-4 days. Kids need a smaller amount of 1 teaspoon a day during cold and flu season that can then be increased to 1 teaspoon every 3 hours during an illness! It is stored in the refrigerator so you can just pour it in a spoon and take by mouth as desired. 

How Long is Elderberry Syrup Good for in the Refrigerator

Properly cooked elderberry syrup can be stored in a container with a tight fitting lid for up to 6 months.