Elderberry Syrup

By Hklbrries

The Wonders of Elderberry (by Gina Harvey)


The Elderberry tree is a deciduous small tree than can grow to thirty feet in height. It bears large oval shaped leaves and large, creamy white heads of small, sweet-smelling flowers. The flowers are followed by purplish-blue berries in autumn.

For centuries people have found that the benefits of Elderberry are found in each and every part of the plant. It is used for making tea, cordials, wines, jams, jellies, chutneys, fruit tarts, ice cream, and fritters. Elderberry juice is a wonderful tonic and cleanser for the glandular and reproductive system.

The Elderberry tree is native to Europe, Asia, North Africa and the eastern United States.

Compounds in Elderberry (use extract) have shown Elderberry benefits include protection against eight strains of human influenza virus, while the flu shot only protects against one or two, at the most three. Elderberry is one of the most effective herbs for preventing and treating upper respiratory tract infection and stimulates the immune system to work against viruses such as herpes simplex and HIV.

Elderlberry does not simply stimulate the immune system, which would make it somewhat dangerous to those with autoimmune disorders or certain other chronic diseases. Rather it modulates the immune system to more appropriately respond to environs and circumstance. It also disarms the virus and helps it flush through the body quicker, while strengthening the mucus membranes, supporting the body's natural fever mechanism without overheating, improves energy and stress handling AND last but certainly not least, it tastes great too.

Editor CAUTION: As with any herbal supplement, moderation is the key and make sure of correct identification of the plant before it is used. The Round Up staff is not a licensed medical professional, we want you to be aware that this educational information is intended to increase your knowledge of traditional usage of plants. It is not meant to diagnose, prevent, prescribe or to administer in any manner to any physical ailments. In all matters related to your health, please contact a professional health practitioner.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh or 1/2 cup dried elderberries
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup honey

Preparation

Step 1

In a glass or stainless steel pot, starting with cool water, heat the berries and water to a boil, then reduce to simmer for 30 - 45 minutes.

Mash the berries, strain (through a colander, NOT cheese cloth), and add 1 cup of honey. Stir to mix well.

Bottle (regular 1 pint canning jars and lids are perfect for storing elderberry syrup. Make sure to sanitize the jars and lids just before using) and store refrigerated for 2 - 3 months.

Enjoy a tablespoon daily to keep the immune system strong, use more often when afflicted with the flu. It makes a wonderful pancake syrup too.

Be sure to rest extra as well, the Elderberry has a much harder time with your immune system if you're really worn down. A little extra sleep will increase its benefits tenfold.

For more information regarding Elderberrys and recipes visit: www.purecajunsunshine.blogspot.com/2009/05/everything-you-ever-wanted-to-know.html