It’s no secret that I’m a fan of elderberries for his or her natural immune-boosting powers. I make elderberry syrup in batches during the cooler months to maintain the flu at bay. My favourite approach to make use of them although is in a heat, comforting cup of elderberry tea.

Imagine for a second … six kids … all getting the flu … all on the identical time…

While this has occurred a few instances, fortunately we are able to recover from the sniffles fairly rapidly because of natural remedies! I can’t start to specific how grateful I’m for this elderberry tea.

Health Benefits of Elderberry Tea

Black elderberries (aka Sambucus nigra) are small, darkish purple berries. They’re widespread in components of North America and Central Europe and also you’ll usually discover them rising round. Elderberries are common in jellies, pies, or baked items very similar to any berry. They may also be dried and made into infusions, tinctures, and syrups.

Several studies show when elderberry syrup is given on the first signal of sickness it could actually shorten the severity and size of colds and flu. Its effectiveness might be because of elderberry’s high ranges of vitamin C and A. Elderberry can be richer in flavonoids and antioxidants than many different berries.

How to Use Elderberries (+ Recipes)

There are lots of straightforward methods to make natural chilly and flu-fighting remedies from elderberries. These recipes are common with youngsters and adults alike!

Elderberry Recipes

Here are 5 methods to rework elderberries into natural immune-boosting remedies:

  1. Flu-Busting Gummy Bears – Kids gained’t even know these tasty gummies are actually a chilly and flu treatment.
  2. Elderberry Marshmallows – I’m comfortable with “a spoonful of sugar to make the medicine go down” on this case. These marshmallows are sweetened with natural honey and comprise gelatin, ginger, and different components recognized to spice up the immune system.
  3. Fizzy Elderberry Kombucha Soda – Please your palate and intestine on the identical time with this healthy soda alternative!
  4. Elderberry Popsicles – These popsicles are the proper alternative to appease sore throats.
  5. Elderberry Syrup – The traditional method. Sweeten to style and retailer within the fridge to make use of during flu and chilly season. Here’s how to make it.

How to Make Elderberry Tea

Nothing towards elderberry syrup, however I want my gelatin in coffee and my natural elderberries in tea. It’s fast, easy, and comforting after I’m feeling beneath the climate.

This tea tastes naturally candy on its own from the elderberries, however sweeten to style with uncooked honey if desired. I additionally like including herbs like turmeric, rose hips, hibiscus, echinacea, or cinnamon for added taste. These aren’t strictly needed however they add more health advantages. Cinnamon helps steadiness blood sugar ranges and herbs like turmeric are anti-inflammatory.

If the style of elderberry isn’t your cup of tea (sorry, needed to go there!), strive including an natural tea bag like peppermint or chamomile to mellow out the flavour. If you don’t need a caffeine-free model, then unfastened leaf tea like green tea or black tea additionally pairs nicely with this. After the tea has simmered for quarter-hour, add the tea leaves and steep one other 3 minutes earlier than straining.

Here’s how to make a “cuppa” elderberry tea that’s good for the physique and soothing for the soul:

Immune-Boosting Elderberry Tea Recipe

This scrumptious immune-boosting elderberry tea is made with dried elderberries, herbs, and spices.

  • Put water, elderberries, turmeric, and cinnamon into a small saucepan.

  • Bring to a boil, cut back warmth, and simmer for about quarter-hour. This helps carry out the useful properties of the elderberries and reduces turmeric’s bitterness.

  • Remove from warmth and let cool for about 5 minutes.

  • Strain by a fantastic mesh seive and pour into particular person mugs.

  • Stir in uncooked honey if utilizing.

Nutrition Facts

Immune-Boosting Elderberry Tea Recipe

Amount Per Serving (8 oz)

Calories 24
Calories from Fat 1

% Daily Value*

Fat 0.1g0%

Saturated Fat 0.02g0%

Polyunsaturated Fat 0.05g

Monounsaturated Fat 0.02g

Sodium 15mg1%

Potassium 57mg2%

Carbohydrates 6g2%

Fiber 1g4%

Sugar 3g3%

Protein 0.2g0%

Vitamin A 89IU2%

Vitamin C 5mg6%

Calcium 18mg2%

Iron 0.5mg3%

* Percent Daily Values are primarily based on a 2000 calorie diet.

For an iced tea, pour into a mason jar and permit to chill, then refrigerate for up to 1 week. Serve over ice if desired. 

Where to Get Elderberries

Elderberries are widespread in forests and wooded areas in components of the U.S., however be sure to positively establish them earlier than foraging. Some plants resemble elderberries however aren’t suitable for eating (or drink). Raw elderberries are poisonous and may trigger digestive points so it’s important to prepare dinner them first.

Rather than forage within the woods for my tea components, I order licensed natural dried elderberries in bulk. It’s much less time-consuming this fashion! I retailer them in our deep freezer between makes use of and so they final for years, particularly if we — hopefully — keep healthy!

Store-bought Options

If sickness strikes with out dried elderberries readily available, some shops carry good natural manufacturers of elderberry tea like this one. You may also discover ready-made elderberry syrup.

Do you employ elderberries to chase away illness? What different natural remedies do you swear by? Please share!