Tis’ the season for anything that boosts your immunity. We know how important it’s been to protect ourselves from Covid-19, but now with flu season at its prime, let’s ramp up the protection even more.
Elderberries are one of those powerhouse foods that are essentially a tiny immunity bomb for our bodies. You may have seen syrups at the store, but making your own gives you a better connection to what you're putting in your body and YOU get to control the quality of ingredients! Plus, I love learning to make new recipes.
Elderberries, also known as Sambucas Nigra, have been around for centuries and used as a powerful antiviral. They are full of vitamin C, B-vitamins, quercetin (a strong anti-inflammatory), antioxidants, and anthocyanins. Overall, elderberries are a super safe food to consume without a break, but generally speaking, they're taken as a preventative measure around flu & cold season.
Elderberry Syrup:
· 1 cup dried elderberries (I got mine here in Denver at Apothecary Tintura)
· 1 inch fresh ginger, diced
· 3 sticks cinnamon
· 1 tbsp cloves
· 1 tbsp astragalus (optional, but another strong immunomodulant)
· 3 cups filtered water
· ½ cup raw local honey
Next Steps:
1. Combine all ingredients except the honey over high heat & bring to a boil
2. Reduce heat to a low temperature and simmer for 30 minutes
3. Once the liquid has reduced to about half, use something flat to mash the berries to get all of their juices out
4. Strain through a fine mesh strainer, making sure to press all the juicy goodness out and allow to cool
5. Once cooled add in honey to taste
Enjoy 1-2 tablespoons daily and store syrup in fridge
Remember that 70% of your immune system is found in your gut. So, if you’re noticing that you’re getting sick more times than you’d like, it’s time to focus in on your gut health!
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