I’ve been hitting preventative methods for cold and flu season hard. Tis the season. While in some cases it seems impossible to prevent I do believe there is a lot we could be doing to stay healthy. I think it is vital to take a moment to acknowledge how amazing our immune system is and the simple things we could be doing to keep our bodies well.
I recorded an entire podcast about the immune system including ten cheap and effective ways to boost your immune system {click here to listen}. I also recorded why you should stop using hand sanitizer – which is causing more harm than good. Finally, check out my immune-boosting guide to get more tips and products.
But for now, indulge yourself in this idea.
The idea of Elderberries and their potent power on the immune system.
the benefit of elderberries
Elderberries are an ancient remedy and yet still considered one of the most effective remedies for viral and bacterial infections such as colds and flu. They have been found to substantially shorten the duration of your illness if you get sick {1}.
Elderberries contain unique proteins and bioflavonoids that have the ability to destroy viruses on contact that infect cells in the body. Elderberries are also known to have the ability to significantly enhance immune function by boosting the production of cytokines in the body making them very beneficial for bronchial and respiratory problems {2}.
how to use
You can get elderberries in a variety of different ways. I use elderberries in the form of elderberry tea and elderberry syrup. Both of these can be purchased at the store or online, and you can also make them yourself.
Today I’m sharing how to make easy 2-ingredient elderberry syrup. It’s simple, clean and as healing as it gets. It’s also sweet and delicious, making it a fantastic remedy that even your children will enjoy.
dosing
For preventative care, adults can take 1 tablespoon once daily and kids 1 teaspoon, once daily. If you feel like you’re beating some kind of virus or bacteria you can add an extra does in to make it twice daily.
get the full details
Get the full details inside this video!
- ¾ cup dried elderberries
- 3 cups water
- ¾ cup raw honey
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 whole star anise
- ¼ tsp whole cloves
- Place the dried elderberries and water in a medium-sized saucepan (with optional spices) over medium-high heat.
- Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until thick and reduced by half.
- Remove and cool completely.
- Strain the syrup into a bowl, pressing the juice out of the berries with a wooden spoon and discarding the whole spices.
- Whisk in the raw honey and pour into jars.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
