Elderberry Syrup: A Cozy Immune-Supporting Herbal Remedy
There’s something magical about making elderberry syrup on a slow, rainy day. The scent of simmering berries, cinnamon, and cloves instantly turns your home into a warm apothecary. Elderberries have been used for centuries across Europe, Africa and the Americas for immune support, fever relief, and seasonal wellness, and now this beloved syrup has become a staple for herbalists and holistic families.
If you’re craving a natural wellness ritual you can make this right in your kitchen, this syrup is simple, nourishing, and full of traditional plant magic. Below is the exact recipe I use at Herbs & Stone.
What are Elderberries?
Elderberries come from the Sambucus nigra tree, a sacred plant in many cultures. These tiny purple berries are packed with:
Anthocyanins (powerful antioxidants)
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Iron + Potassium
Natural antiviral + immune supporting compounds
Traditionally, elderberries have been used to shorten cold/flu symptoms, soothe the respiratory system, and strengthen the immune response.
Ingredients You Need:
(Enough to make 8-12 oz of syrup)
1 cup dried elderberries
4 cups water
1-2 cinnamon sticks
3-5 whole cloves
1 inch fresh ginger (or 1 tsp dried)
1 cup raw honey (add after cooling)
Optional additions:
Hibiscus, rose hips, orange peel, star anise, lemon slices, mullein or thyme
How to Make Elderberry Syrup
Combine the Herbs
Add dried elderberries, water, cinnamon, ginger and cloves to a pot.
Bring to a boil
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low.
Simmer for 30-45 minutes
Allow the mixture to reduce by about half. Your kitchen will smell amazing
Mash & Strain
Press the berries to extract all the goodness. Strain through a mesh strainer or cheescloth.
Let the liquid cool completely
This protects the benefits of the honey.
Add Raw Honey
Stir gently until fully combined.
Bottle and refrigerate
Use a glass jar or bottle. Keeps 4-6 weeks in the fridge.
How to Use Elderberry Syrup
Adults: 1 tbsp daily
Kids over 1 year: 1 tsp daily
(Do NOT give honey to children under 1)
Increase to 2-3 times daily when feeling sick.
Herbs & Stone Notes
This syrup makes a beautiful addition to:
Herbal Tea
Smoothies
Cocktails
Mocktails
Iced Lavender Lemonade
Seasonal Rituals
Spiritual Cleansing Days
It’s simple, delicious and grounding. The perfect way to bring plant healing into your home.
Want More Herbal Recipes?
At Herbs & Stone, we create small-batch herbal teas, oils, blends, and spiritual products lovingly crafted for modern healers, witches and holistic families.
Explore our apothecary here: https://www.herbsandstone.com/
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