Elderberry Orange Syrup

In a world where wellness trends come and go, elderberry syrup has stood the test of time as a natural remedy cherished for its immune-boosting and soothing properties. This traditional syrup is more than just elderberries—it’s a blend of botanicals that add depth, flavor, and unique benefits, making it a potent elixir for seasonal support. In this post, we’ll share a simple yet powerful elderberry syrup recipe and explore the unique qualities of each herb included. From the citrusy brightness of orange and the fortifying minerals in stinging nettle and oat straw, to the warming properties of yarrow and rosemary, these botanicals create a harmonious blend that not only tastes delightful but nourishes the body and combats colds in various ways. Whether you’re a seasoned herbal enthusiast or new to DIY herbal remedies, this guide will walk you through the steps to create a syrup that’s as delicious as it is beneficial.

Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis)

A key component of an elderberry syrup, Sambucus canadensis can help stimulate perspiration, helping the body sweat out any unwanted bacteria that may be present. Having an anti-inflammatory effect on the upper respiratory system, elderberry can help to reduce congestion. Anthocyanins present in the berries and flowers encourage enhanced immune function by increasing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines. And let's not forget its high content of vitamin C!

Orange (Cirtus sinensis)

Adding orange peel to elderberry syrup is a fantastic way to boost its benefits for combating cold or flu symptoms. Orange peel contains a high concentration of vitamin C, which can enhance immune function and help the body fight off infections more effectively. It also has bioflavonoids, powerful antioxidants that work alongside vitamin C to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can be triggered by a virus. Furthermore, orange peel has natural oils that offer a subtle, warming citrus flavor to the syrup, making it more palatable while adding a gentle boost of antiviral and antibacterial properties.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Mirroring elderberries perspiration actions, yarrow promotes perspiration to help reduce fevers. While perspiration is a useful tool to help reduce fevers, yarrow also contains salicylic acid (the active ingredient in aspirin) that furthermore aids in reducing fevers, pain, and inflammation. Yarrow helps to reduce symptoms and speed up recovery time from the common cold, flu, and hayfever, exerting a strong antibiotic activity against many gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officials)

Pairing rosemary in an elderberry syrup is an excellent way to enhance its benefits for cold and flu relief. Rosemary is rich in antioxidants, such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, which help combat inflammation and oxidative stress caused by viral infections. Its natural antimicrobial and antiviral properties can help the body fight off respiratory infections and ease congestion. Rosemary is also known to improve circulation, which helps deliver nutrients throughout the body and supports a faster immune response. With its uplifting, aromatic quality, rosemary adds a fresh, earthy flavor to elderberry syrup, making it a powerful addition to boost immunity and relieve symptoms while adding warmth and depth to each sip.

Stinging nettles (Utrica diocia)

A staple in my personal herbal arsenal, stinging nettles provides and restores a wide range of vitamins and minerals that may be depleted in the body, making it great for nourishing and revitalizing the body during times of illness. The antihistamine actions present in stinging nettles help reduce histamine release, thus decreasing mucous production, tissue inflammation, spasms, and wheezing. Nettles can also help open up the nasal passages and congested bronchial while expelling stagnant excess mucus. As a blood-building tonic, Stinging nettles can also help improve energy and vitality, making it a well-utilized herbal companion in this syrup blend!

Oat straw (Avena sativa)

Adding oat straw to elderberry syrup is a wonderful way to support the body during a cold or flu. Oat straw is rich in minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica, which help nourish and strengthen the immune system and soothe the nervous system, supporting overall resilience against illness. It also contains saponins, natural compounds that can help the body fight off infections. Additionally, oat straw is known for its gentle anti-inflammatory properties, which can ease discomfort associated with fever or body aches, common symptoms of colds and flu. This addition makes elderberry syrup not only immune-boosting but also calming and supportive for the whole body, adding balance to the formula as it aids in recovery.

Crafting your own elderberry syrup is a wonderful way to connect with the healing power of plants and customize your wellness routine with natural ingredients. With each herb mirroring and heightening similar qualities within one another, this syrup offers a blend of flavor and function. Whether you’re enjoying it by the spoonful or mixing it into drinks, this homemade remedy provides a wholesome, thoughtful way to nourish yourself through the changing seasons. By making your own, you can embrace the therapeutic qualities of each botanical and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from knowing exactly what’s in your syrup. Here’s to a season of wellness and the timeless tradition of herbal remedies!

Reminder: This formula is not approved by the FDA and is not meant to treat or cure. Rather, it assists the body with healing itself by delivering essential vitamins and minerals and boosting the immune system. Do not take it if you are pregnant, and do not consume it for longer than 3 weeks.

Ingredients:

• 1 ounce (1/3 cup) dried Orange Peel

• 1 ounce (1/3 cup) dried Yarrow Flower

• 1 ounce (1/3 cup) dried Rosemary

• 1 ounce (1/4 cup) dried Elderberries

• 0.75 ounce (1/4 cup) dried Stinging Nettle

• 0.75 ounce (1/4 cup) dried Oat Straw

• 48 ounces (6 cups) distilled or purified water

• 12 ounces (1.5 cups) honey

• 2 ounces brandy (optional, for preservation)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Decoction: In a medium saucepan, combine the dried Elderberries, Orange peel, Yarrow flower, Stinging nettles, Rosemary, and Oat straw pouring the water over the top. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.

2. Simmer: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 30–45 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by about half.

3. Strain the Herbs: Remove the pan from heat. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth, pressing down on the herbs to extract as much liquid as possible. Discard the spent herbs.

4. Combine with Honey: Allow the strained liquid to cool slightly until warm, but not hot, to preserve the beneficial properties of the honey. Stir in the honey until fully dissolved.

5. Add Brandy (optional): For extended shelf life, add the brandy to the mixture and stir to combine.

6 . Bottle the Syrup: Pour the syrup into a clean glass jar or bottle. Label it with the date and ingredients.

7. Storage: Store the syrup in the refrigerator, where it will keep for about 2–3 months. The brandy helps extend shelf life, but you can omit it if you prefer alcohol-free syrup and use it up within 1–2 months.

Dosage:

•Take 1–2 teaspoons daily as a preventive measure or every few hours at the onset of a cold or flu.