Homemade Elderberry Syrup

Cue the angels singing. Elderberry syrup has skyrocketed in popularity over the last several years as more folks are turning toward home healing and learning what they can do on their own to support their family’s bodies. This homemade elderberry syrup is very easy to put together and can last for up to three months. 

We take elderberry syrup during sick season and if we’ve been exposed to someone who was sick as a standard does of 1-2 teaspoons for kids and 1 tablespoon for adults, once a day. If we are sick, we take the same dose every 2-3 hours until symptoms disappear. 

Elderberry Benefits

Elderberry has traditionally been considered a medicinal plant. It can support a strong immune system and may even alleviate respiratory conditions such as cold and cough. High in flavonoids, elderberries are thought to reduce the risk of heart disease and are beneficial in lowering blood pressure and managing diabetes. Add in my homemade fire cider and have the double whammy of natural immune support – there’s even a kid-friendly fire cider version!

homemade elderberry syrup

Homemade Elderberry Syrup

Ingredients

  • 1 cup of dried elderberries
  • 3/4 cup rose hips
  • 1 cup raw honey
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 12 whole cloves
  • 2 1.5" pieces of ginger, peeled and cut
  • 3.5 cups filtered water

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine elderberries, rose hips, cinnamon sticks, ginger, cloves, and filtered water.
  2. Bring to a boil then cover and reduce to a simmer for 45 minutes.
  3. Remove from stovetop and allow to cool for 45-60 minutes.
  4. When cooled to room temperature, strain thoroughly. Be sure liquid is room temperature, as honey's beneficial properties are destroyed when heated too hot.
  5. Measure the liquid you have and add half the amount in honey. For example, if you have one cup of liquid, add 1/2 cup of honey.
  6. Stir until honey is fully incorporated.
  7. Keep in a glass container in the fridge for three months
  8. Kids dose: 1-2 teaspoons, Adult dose: 1 tablespoon

Notes

It is recommended that children under one year of age avoid honey due to the risk of infant botulism. Be sure to do your own research, discover the actual risk, and make an informed decision if it's right for your family. As always, this is not medical advice.

Reusing elderberries: If you’d like to keep the berries, you can simmer and strain them one more time to make a tea. 

Sourcing quality ingredients: Be sure that you are sourcing quality elderberries. Ideally, your honey should come from close to home for you in order to receive the seasonal allergy relief that local honey offers. 

Be sure to never eat raw dried elderberries, as they are toxic when dried.