Homemade Elderberry Syrup for Immune Support
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Time to read 2 min
10 min
45 min
30 servings
Herbal Remedies
United States
Homemade Elderberry Syrup for Immune Support (Plus My Go-To Herbal Tinctures for Women's Health)
As a clinical herbalist, I’ve seen firsthand the power of herbal remedies to support overall health. This herbal syrup is a staple in my home during cold and flu season. It's packed with antiviral and adaptogenic herbs to support your immune system year-round. Elderberries, astragalus, and reishi make this a powerful ally for prevention and recovery.
Meet the herbs:
🌿 Elderberries (Sambucus nigra)
Elderberries are rich in anthocyanins, flavonoids with strong antioxidant and antiviral properties. Studies show elderberry extract can reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu by enhancing cytokine production and inhibiting viral replication, especially for influenza viruses.
🌿 Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)
Cinnamon chips contain cinnamaldehyde, a compound known to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity. It supports immune function by modulating inflammatory pathways and may help fight off respiratory pathogens.
🌿 Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is a powerful immunomodulator with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It enhances the body’s defense against infections by stimulating the innate immune response and suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines.
🌿 Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
A key adaptogenic herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine, astragalus supports immune resilience by boosting white blood cell activity and enhancing interferon production. It helps regulate immune responses and protect against stress-induced immune suppression.
🌿 Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi is known for its polysaccharides and triterpenes, which modulate both innate and adaptive immunity. Research shows it enhances macrophage and natural killer (NK) cell activity, helping the body identify and destroy pathogens more effectively.
Ingredients
1 cup dried elderberries
1 tbsp dried cinnamon chips
1 tbsp dried ginger root
2 tbsp dried astragalus root
2 tbsp dried reishi mushroom slices
2 cups water
½–1 cup raw, organic honey (adjust to your sweetness preference)
Juice of ½ lemon
Directions
Step 1
In a medium saucepan, combine elderberries, cinnamon, ginger, astragalus, and reishi with 2 cups of water.
Step 2
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by about half.
Step 3
Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
Step 4
Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean bowl or jar, pressing the herbs to extract every last drop.
Step 5
Once the liquid is lukewarm (not hot), stir in the honey and fresh lemon juice.
Transfer to a glass jar or bottle with a tight lid and store in the refrigerator.
Suggested Use:
For daily support : Take 1 teaspoon daily.
If sick or exposed : Take 1 teaspoon up to 3–4 times per day.
This recipe is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with your healthcare provider before using any herbal remedies, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.
Pairing Elderberry Syrup with Herbal Tinctures for Women’s Health
While elderberry syrup is wonderful for immune health, I also recommend a few of my herbal tinctures for women's hormone and reproductive health, digestive support, and sleep:
- Soothe : Designed to regulate hormones, support cycle regularity, and prevent PMS symptoms. It’s the perfect companion for women looking to balance their hormones naturally.
- Crampy : If you need immediate relief from menstrual cramps, this tincture works quickly to ease discomfort.
- Bitters : Great for gut health and liver detoxification, bitters can help improve digestion and support nutrient absorption.
- Sleepy : For those nights when sleep seems out of reach, Sleepy promotes restful sleep and supports nervous system health.
Immune-boosting powerhouse made with elderberries, adaptogens like astragalus and reishi, and warming herbs like cinnamon and ginger.
Naturally preserved with honey and lemon , this syrup is fridge-stable and perfect for daily or as-needed use.
Take 1 tsp daily for prevention or increase to several times a day when sick for extra support.
