Elderberry is a popular herb with traditional use spanning centuries - maybe even longer!  These small, dark purple berries are celebrated for their potential anti-viral and immune-boosting properties. Let’s discover the yumminess and versatility of dried elderberries through recipes for elderberry syrup, elderberry tea, elderberry gummies, and elderberry vinegar.

The Health Benefits of Elderberry:

• Elderberries are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support our overall well-being. 
• Elderberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which may help fortify the immune system.
• Elderberries contain flavonoids which may support the body's ability to resolve inflammation.
• Research indicates that the anthocyanins present in elderberries may have antiviral properties [1].

Dried Elderberries

Dried elderberries are the ideal starting place for DIY recipes and offer a convenient option for year-round use. Fresh berries contain a compound that can cause nausea and vomiting in some people.  Once the berry is dried, this becomes a non-issue.  Let's explore how to make elderberry syrup and elderberry tea with dried elderberries, along with dosage instructions.

 

Recipes

Elderberry Syrup:

Elderberry syrup is a popular and delicious year-round health supplement.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried elderberries
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup honey (preferably raw and organic)

Optional: cinnamon, ginger, and cloves for added flavor.

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine dried elderberries and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the liquid reduces by half.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before straining the liquid into a glass jar or bowl.
4. Once the liquid is lukewarm, add honey and stir well until it dissolves.

Store the elderberry syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It can last for several weeks.

Dosage:

Adults: Take 1 tablespoon daily for immune support. During illness, take 1 tablespoon every 3-4 hours.

Children: Take 1 teaspoon daily for immune support. During illness, take 1 teaspoon every 3-4 hours.

 

Elderberry Tea:

Elderberry tea is a comforting and nourishing drink that can be enjoyed year-round.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dried elderberries
• 2 cups water
• Optional: a touch of honey or lemon for added flavor

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine dried elderberries and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and let it steep for an additional 10 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup, and if desired, add honey or lemon for extra flavor.

Dosage:

Adults and Children: Enjoy 1-2 cups of elderberry tea daily for immune support and overall well-being.

 

Elderberry Gummies:

Ingredients:

• ½ cup elderberry syrup
• ½ cup gelatin powder (preferably grass-fed)
• Optional: a touch of honey for added sweetness

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, warm the elderberry syrup over low heat.
2. Slowly whisk in the gelatin powder until it's fully dissolved.
3. Add honey if desired for added sweetness.
4. Pour the mixture into silicone molds or a glass dish and refrigerate until firm.
5. Once the gummies are set, remove them from the molds or cut them into small squares.

Dosage:

 Children and Adults: Enjoy 2-4 elderberry gummies daily.

 

Elderberry Vinegar:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried elderberries
• 2 cups apple cider vinegar
• Optional: honey or maple syrup for sweetness

Instructions:

1. In a glass jar, combine dried elderberries and apple cider vinegar.
2. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for about 2-4 weeks, shaking it gently every few days.
3. After the steeping period, strain the elderberry-infused vinegar into a clean jar or bottle.

Optionally, add honey or maple syrup to sweeten the vinegar to taste.

Dosage:

Adults: Take 1 tablespoon of elderberry vinegar daily, either directly or mixed with water, for added immune support.

 

Enjoy the nourishing support of elderberries with these delicious and fun recipes.  From immune-boosting elderberry syrup and tea to delightful elderberry gummies and tangy elderberry vinegar, these recipes allow you to incorporate elderberries into your daily routine. With their immune-supporting properties and delicious taste, elderberries are a natural choice. Elderberries are considered quite safe, but as always, it's a good idea consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.  Never consume fresh or frozen elderberries without first drying or heating them.  This can lead to stomach upset.

 

References:

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6856223/