Team syrup or team tincture? Let’s talk about it…
But before we do, I want to make a quick mention about usage. Ideally, when you want to prepare your body ahead of time to fend off colds and flus, you’d want to use Echinacea. We’ll talk about this in another post, but Echinacea should be the go-to first. Elderberry is ideal when you are actively sick or exposed to colds or flus.
But, you can use Elderberry too, so let’s cover that first…
Elderberries are packed with antiviral, immune-supporting goodnes. They’re high in vitamin C, vitamin A, B vitamins, and minerals like iron and potassium. On top of that, they’ve got a good dose of antioxidants that help the body fight off all the junk going around in the fall and wintertime.
But when it comes to making elderberry remedies, there’s always the same question:
Do I make a syrup or a tincture?
Here’s the short answer: Make both.
They each shine in different ways, and if you’ve got both on hand, you’ll be covered for a whole range of situations.
Elderberry Syrup
Elderberry syrup is the one most folks are familiar with. It’s sweet, cozy, and super easy to take, especially for kids. I like to simmer dried elderberries with a few warming herbs like ginger, cinnamon, and clove, strain them out, then stir in raw honey once it’s cooled a bit.
This is the one to reach for daily during cold and flu season. Just a spoonful each morning as a little immune boost, especially when we’ve been out and about, or if someone in the house is feeling off. It’s also a go-to for kids since it tastes like a treat.
When To Use Syrup
For daily immune support during the season
For children or people who won’t take tinctures
When someone is just starting to feel under the weather
For soothing sore throats and calming a dry cough
One thing to keep in mind is that syrup doesn’t last forever. Even refrigerated, you’re looking at about 2–3 months of shelf life. So it’s great to make in small batches throughout the season.
Elderberry Tincture
Tinctures are concentrated herbal extracts made with alcohol. An elderberry tincture is a lot more potent and a lot more shelf-stable. I like to start a fresh batch each fall and let it sit for several weeks. Print out the recipe card below for the step-by-step.
Tinctures are my go-to when someone is already sick. They’re fast-acting, easy to store, and super convenient if you’re on the go or don’t want to worry about refrigeration. I also love that I can keep a small bottle in my purse and not think twice about it.
When To Use Tincture
When someone is actively sick, and I want a strong dose
For older kids and adults who are okay with the taste
When we’re traveling or need something shelf-stable
As a backup when syrup runs out (which always seems to happen mid-season, so make lots)
Tinctures last several years if stored properly. So once you make a bottle or two, you’re set for a while.
Elderberry Syrup
Ingredients
- 4 cups Filtered Water
- 3/4 cups Dried Elderberries (or 1 1/2 c of fresh)
- A few TBS Organic Ginger Root
- 2 TBS Organic Cinnamon
- 1 tsp Organic Cloves
- 1 cup Raw Honey
Instructions
- If using fresh: Bring water up to a rolling boil, then add fresh elderberries and boil for 3 minutes.
- If using dried: Bring water to a simmer and add dried elderberries.
- Add the ginger root, cinnamon, and cloves.
- Simmer for 1 hour or until syrup is at desired thickness.
- Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature
- Strain the mixture squeezing all the liquid out of the herbs.
- Add the raw honey and stir until incorporated.
- Store in the refridgerator up to 3 months.
- Take 1 TBS daily for prevention, or 1 TBS every 2-4 hours while sick
Elderberry Tincture
Ingredients
- 1 part Fresh Elderberries (2 parts for dried berries)
- 5 parts 40% Vodka (80 proof)
Instructions
- Add berries into a glass jar
- Add vodka all the way to the top of the jar
- Put a tight fitting lid on and label your jar with the date and contents
- If you are using a metal lid, put a piece of parchment in between the jar and the lid to prevent corrosion
- Let your tincture sit in a cool dark place for 8 weeks
- Shake the jar occasionally
- Strain and bottle your tincture, and store it in a cool, dark place
- Take 2-4mL up to 4 times per day when sick
