This is a wonderful year round herbal preparation to prevent colds and flu's. Elderberry syrup is anti-viral, warming and loaded with flavanoids and anti-oxidants. Try to use organic for all ingredients when possible.
Recipe
. 1/2 cup of dried elderberries (if you use fresh or frozen make it a cup)
. 1 cinnamon stick
. 5 cloves
. 1 TBSP fresh grated ginger
. 2 cups water
. 1 cup wild honey (I like organic manuka honey)
Put all ingredients into a pot except the honey then cover and bring to a boil
Reduce to a simmer and leave covered until liquid reduces to half (approximately 20-30 minutes)
Strain liquid into a bowl and tamp it down well to get out all the juice.
Add the 1 cup of honey and stir
You can compost the remains if you like.
Store your Elderberry Syrup in a closed jar in the fridge for 2-3 weeks. Take a teaspoon to a tablespoon a day as a preventative. If you do catch a cold take it every few hours.