Continuing on from the last Balsamic Moon Bulletin on using Elderflowers from the Elderberry Tree I planted in my backyard (Sambucus nigra). This is a great way to use the Berries collected in the summer. The berries can go into the freezer until ready for use.
*Remember do not eat the Elderberries uncooked, they can be poisonous.
It is said that the berries & flowers of elderberry are packed with antioxidants
& vitamins that can boost your immune system. Help fight the flu, Support a healthy immune system, Reduces cold duration, Reduce inflammation & Supports skin health among other benefits.
Elderberry Winter Tonic Syrup
Ingredients
Elderberries, stems removed
Water, 1:1 cups water-to-berry ratio for fresh or frozen berries
Fresh Ginger, grated: 1 Tablespoon per cup of berries
Ground Cinnamon, 1 scroll per cup of berries
Raw Honey, (preferably local) 1/4 cup per cup of berries
Raw Sugar, 1/4 cup per cup of berries (the sugar helps preserve the syrup)
Method to the madness
Place berries in a pot, add water, ginger, cinnamon and sugar.
Bring to a boil on the stove, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20-30 minutes, then allow to cool.
Strain the liquid from the berries using a sieve, pressing on with a wooden spoon to get all of the juice out.
Add raw honey. Stir until well mixed, and decant into bottle/s.
Label & Date. Store in the fridge
How to use:
Take a teaspoonful daily during cold & flu season to ward off illness.
It can also be used as a tasty drink using the Soda Machine.
Recipe from: https://www.naturebody.co.nz/blog/elderberry-syrup
A word of Warning:
Make sure you always check with your doctor before trying a new type of herbal tea, to make sure they do not interact with any condition or medications.
A place to start is the Mayo Clinic website based in America.
Here is the link to the Drugs & Supplements part of the website.
