Homemade immune boosting gift idea

This year I decided to make some immune-boosting goodness to gift to a few friends, because ‘tis the season for errrbody to share those warm cozy germs. I use an adaptation of Katie at Wellness Mama's recipe (just google Wellness Mama elderberry syrup - it will be the first thing that pops up) - I'll share it below. It's super simple and easy to make double and triple batches to store in the freezer or share. I bottle up and put in the fridge what we’ll use in about 3 weeks and the rest goes in the freezer to thaw out when needed. 

I bought glass oil bottles from the Dollar Tree or if you don't have one near you, you can find them on Amazon. These are perfect because most importantly, they're glass, but also the spout is great for dispensing the elderberry. And for $1 each, they're a really economical choice. 

What you'll need:

•  3 1/2 cups filtered water
•  2/3 cup organic dried elderberries
•  2 Tbsp ginger root (grated)
•  1 tsp cinnamon
•  1/2 tsp whole cloves 
• 1 cup of raw honey (local if possible for the allergy reducing benefits)

Instructions:

• Add water, elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves to a medium saucepan.
• Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to medium and let simmer for about an hour. The liquid will reduce by about half.
• Remove from heat and let cool.
• Mash the berries - I use a potato masher. 
• Pour through a metal strainer into a glass jar. 
• Discard or compose the berries, and let the remaining liquid cool to lukewarm. 
• Once the liquid is lukewarm stir in the honey. 
• That's it! Store in a glass jar in the fridge for 2-3 weeks, and any that you won't use should be stored in the freezer. 
• Adults take 1 Tbsp daily. Children take 1 tsp daily. 

​And just a couple of notes about giving elderberry to little ones...

 - remember that babies under 12 months shouldn’t be consuming honey, so be sure to set some aside before adding the honey if you’re wanting some for your littlest ones.

 - I highly recommend picking up some stainless steel condiment cups or glass shot glasses to keep around for supplementing your littles. WAY less messy than using a spoon. 

 - and of course, be sure to consult with your doctor before introducing any supplements to your kids- this is especially important with babies. I’m not a professional, just a Mama sharing what we do with our family ?

Do you use elderberry syrup for your family? If so, do you make your own? I want some deets! 

Xoxo
​Rebecca