Elderberry Season is Almost Here

With the cold and flu being a yearly thing most of us have to deal with, it’s great to have a few homemade remedies on hand. We have a medicinal garden growing near our kitchen and are adding to it each year as we learn how to use each one.

But our very favorite thing is to grow and use is our elderberries. Our elderberry patch is growing larger each year with upwards of 80 bushes which continue to spread. Harvest time in typically in mid-August and as we harvest we will begin making our elderberry syrups and do-it-yourself mixes to share with you!

What are the Benefits of Elderberry?

Because elderberries naturally contain vitamins A, B, and C, they naturally stimulate and wake up the immune system. This makes it a great remedy for seasonal illnesses such as colds and the flu. Boosting your immune system when the weather begins to change can actually help you fight off those germs.

Doctor Madeleine Mumcuoglu researched elderberries and their effect on flu viruses. The results of her research was “Sambucol, a patented natural formula which contains a potent antiviral compound, AntiVirin, isolated from the black elderberry, and three flavonoids – naturally occurring plant antioxidants.”

Easiest Way to Get the Benefits of Elderberry?

We think, hands down, this elderberry syrup recipe is the easiest way to reap all the amazing health benefits locked up inside this tiny berry. Not only that, but it tastes great! You can add a small amount to flavor tea or kombucha, and we love adding a tablespoon of it in our orange juice in the morning, it tastes great!

We also amp up the immune-boosting and virus-fighting properties by using raw honey and adding ginger and cinnamon to our homemade elderberry syrup.

If you have small children (under 2 years of age) be sure to omit the honey.

How to stock your pantry?

We offer elderberry syrup in two options.

1. Prepared and canned so it is shelf-stable (available to local customers, just email us to ask about it!)

2. Shelf-stable packets with all the herbs you need, just add water, apple cider vinegar and honey! The shelf-stable packets can be ordered online and shipped to you. We use these packets ourselves all through the winter when we need to make up a quick batch of elderberry juice to add to our morning routine.

We also offer a variety elderberry teas which are another enjoyable way to get elderberry immune system benefits.

Check here to learn more about the options we offer and get your pantry stocked for the upcoming fall season!