Elderberries are such magical little gems!
The other day I had this feeling that they were ready to harvest, and I know a really good spot for them, but I’ll keep it secret for now so they don’t get raided and there’s not enough left for the wildlife. But don’t fret, they’re totally available to purchase dried or fresh from many sources!
Anyways back to my story…
Called up my one of my best friends and said, wanna go on an adventure? I already knew the answer was yes, so one early morning off we went with my little (she’s a trooper). I was able to teach my friend a few other herbally goodness plants that were growing along the trail too which was so much fun! Finding the berries was easy, but getting there was really hot. We had to take frequent water breaks, and investigate EVERY little new thing along the way. I love my little’s curiosity, it’s going to serve her well one day. So why would I put myself through that you ask? Because every forager loves the adventure, no matter how tough it is.
Now why Elderberries? What’s so amazing about them anyways? They are the star ingredient to one of the most amazing elixirs to prevent and treat the common cold and flu. It boosts your immune system, has antioxidant activity to lower cholesterol, improve vision, improves heart health and for coughs, colds, flu, bacterial and viral infections and tonsillitis. Did you know the juice was used to treat a flu epidemic in Panama in 1995? Cool eh?
They contain organic pigments, tannins, amino acids, carotenoids, flavonoids, sugar, rutin, viburnic acid, vitamin A and B and a large amount of vitamin C. They are also mildly laxative, a diuretic, and diaphoretic. The flavonoids, including quercetin, are believed to account for the therapeutic actions of the elderberry flowers and berries. According to test tube studies these flavonoids include anthocyanins that are powerful antioxidants and protect cells against damage.
Are they not poisonous? No not really, most species of Elderberries are edible when picked ripe and then cooked. Both the skin and pulp can be eaten. However, it is important to note that most uncooked berries and other parts of plants from this genus are poisonous.
I’m not going to get into the nitty gritty of these amazing plants and the endless amounts of medical research done, please do your own research and talk with your health care professional if you’re unsure. There have been so many studies done that I myself do not doubt the credibility of them, but I’m not a doctor.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe
Ingredients
• 1 cup fresh or frozen (½ c dried) elderberries
• 3 cups of water
• 1 tbsp fresh or dried ginger root
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/2 tsp cloves
• 1/4 c marshmallow root
• 1/2 cup maple syrup (I use the syrup I make, or if I’m out I use local)
You can use raw honey instead of maple syrup, but don’t add it until it’s cooled down or you’ll kill any benefits from the raw honey. Please note, raw honey is not recommended for babies 0-12 months
Optional:
- 1/4 c dried hyssop
- a 1” chunk of dried Chaga – I like this for added immunity
Instructions
Pour water into a medium saucepan and add elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and marshmallow root bringing it to a boil. Reduce it to a simmer until the liquid reduces to almost half (about 30 minutes). Remove from heat., and pour through a cheesecloth or a strainer into a glass jar or bowl (I let mine strain overnight). Add the maple syrup to the strained liquid and give it a stir so it mixes in. Once cooled, you can squeeze the mash for any remainder of the juice out for more goodness. Pour your newly crafted potion into a glass jar and store it in the fridge for up to 3 months (if it lasts that long).
Recommended Amount
Prevention (can be taken daily): Kids (13 months-12 years old): 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Adults: 1/2 to 1 Tablespoon
Recovery: Take the normal dose every 2-3 hours until symptoms disappear. I personally take a max 3tbsp per day and to make it “fancy” I just add it to a glass of Soda Water
If you do not wish to source the ingredients that’s cool, I’ve got your back! My good friend Courtney over at Heart to Earth Birth and Wellness has a DIY Elderberry Syrup Kit all made up for you to purchase and she’ll ship them out to you too! Easy peasy!
Disclaimer: Do not consume a plant unless you’re 100% on the correct ID. When foraging please make sure if you do not own the land, to ask for permission to enter someone’s property before foraging there. Don’t assume it’s unused property! I am not a doctor, nor profess to be, so please check with your health care professional if you’re unsure.
References:
https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-elderberry.html
https://www.motherearthnews.com/real-food/elderberry-tonic-forcold-and-flu-prevention-zbcz1508
