Posted in Healthful Eating and Living
Last week I shared on using herbs to battle the common cold. You can read that article here: http://www.homesteadblogger.com/HSBFrontPorch/84250/ . This week I will be sharing on the herb, elderberry.
Elderberry
The most common part of the elderberry tree that is used is the berry. The leaves and flower parts are often added to creams and ointments to be used on cuts and scratches.
The berries are very high in vitamin C and also contain vitamins A and B. Taken medicinally it can work well to boost your immune system. Syrup made from the berries is an effective remedy for sore throats, coughs and cold symptoms and can help with asthma and bronchitis.
Make Your Own Elderberry Syrup for the Cold Season
1 cup dried elderberries (you can purchase dried elderberries from http://www.bulkherbstore.com/ or http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/).
3 cups water
1 ½ cups honey
Optional, but not necessary is a tablespoon of brandy. This helps preserve the syrup.
In a large pot combine the elderberries and water. Bring this to a boil and reduce heat. Let simmer for about 1 hour, uncovered. Strain out the elderberries. You can use an old clean dishcloth to strain your berries (but it will get stained so make sure it is an old one). Add the honey and optional brandy and stir till dissolved. Store this syrup in the refrigerator in a glass canning jar or if you did not add the brandy then store in smaller bottles in the freezer. This way you can take a small bottle out as needed. When you or someone in your family shows the first symptoms of a cold or the flu begin taking spoonful two to three times daily. An adult spoonful would equal about a tablespoon and a child’s spoonful would be a teaspoon or so.
Crystal and her husband Tobin, along with 5 of their 8 homeschooled children make their home on 18 acres in SW Washington State. Crystal enjoys caring for her home and family and her farm. You can visit Crystal’s website: The Family Homestead or Crystal’s Country Store where she sells her own goat milk soap, ebooks and more!
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