Well, with five school aged children and a toddler who’s a thumb sucker, my crew has the potential to come into contact with lots of germies. So how do we keep our immune systems healthy and strong? We do that by eating lots of fruits and veggies, hand washing, exericse and getting adequate rest.

But to bolster our ability to fight off illness, we have another weapon in our arsenal.

Elderberry Syrup

As far back as Ancient Egypt, people have been using Elderberries as part of their wellness plan. Elderberries, also known as Sambucus, are used to treat a variety of ailments such as cold, fevers and nasal congestion.

Over the last few years I’ve been asked on many occasions my recipe for elderberry syrup so I’m finally taking an opportunity to write it down here for all my buddies who are looking for a recipe. Elderberry syrup can be purchased in your local natural food store but it’s just as easy to make and more cost effective to just whip up at batch since you may already have a few of the ingredients right at home.

Elderberry Syrup

1/2 cup dried elderberries

1 cinnamon stick

4 cloves

2 inch piece fresh ginger (peeled & sliced)

4 cups water

1/2 cup honey

Step 1

In a pot bring 4 cups water to boil. Add all ingredients except honey. Simmer on medium low for about 20 minutes or until liquid reduces by half.

Step 2

Remove from heat and strain.

Step 3

Add honey and stir well. Store in a mason jar in the fridge.

Here’s to keeping your family healthy and whole during cold and flu season.

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!