How to Make Elderberry Syrup

Let's learn all about making your own Elderberry Syrup at home with dried elderberries! This recipe is tried and true, easy, tasty, and health-beneficial.

I've been making elderberry syrup for my family for quite some time now. Elderberry syrup is one of those things that everyone makes a little differently, I find. There isn't a right or wrong way to go about making it, apart from the simmering step which ensures you extract the helpful compounds. Otherwise, elderberry syrup is something you can certainly tweak to suit your tastes when it comes to the spices, and even the ratios. Elderberry syrup also makes a great first-time herbal medicine-making project. Elderberries have been used as a great immune system booster for hundreds of years!

If you enjoy this recipe, you might also like this homemade cough syrup recipe incorporating elderberries as well.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Dried Elderberries: Dried elderberries (Sambucus nigra) are easily found in natural health food stores and online at places like Mountain Rose Herbs and Amazon. One upside of using the dried berries apart from not having to go foraging around, they make it easy to make this elderberry syrup recipe any time of the year.

Cinnamon: I love throwing a cinnamon stick into the mix, but feel free to swap out the stick for about 1/2 teaspoon of the ground variety.

Ginger Root: Apart from the added health benefits of ginger (anti-inflammatory, and anti-viral, to name a few), ginger root also adds a nice touch of spice. If you do not have fresh on hand, you can use 2 teaspoons of ground ginger.

Cloves: Cloves add a delicious earthy warmth and make your kitchen smell divine (as a bonus!). If you need to use ground cloves, use about 3/4 teaspoon.

Raw Honey: No elderberry syrup would be complete without the sweet component! The upside of using raw honey in your elderberry syrup is that it adds additional health benefits. However, if you are a vegan or on a honey-free diet, feel free to swap it out for the sweetener of your choice. You can even use agave syrup or vegan honey!

Health Benefits and Nutritional Value of Elderberry Syrup 

The health benefits of elderberry syrup are numerous, making it a popular remedy, particularly during flu season. Elderberry syrup is rich in antioxidants, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. 

For kids and adults alike, elderberry syrup can provide immune support and may help to reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms due to its zinc content. The immune-boosting properties of elderberry syrup make it a valuable addition to your wellness routine, helping to strengthen the body's natural defenses.

When used in the right dosage, elderberry syrup can be a beneficial addition to your arsenal of natural remedies. Research has shown that elderberry syrup can help to cure upper respiratory symptoms, reduce illness, and promote overall wellness.

It is important to note that while elderberry syrup can be a valuable supplement, it should not replace prescribed drug administration. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using elderberry syrup, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

How to Make Elderberry Syrup - Step by Step

Top Tip

If using raw honey as your sweetener, you want to make sure the elderberry liquid cools considerably before mixing in the honey, for the sake of maintaining the maximum health benefits of the raw honey.

10 Ways to Use Elderberry Syrup

1. Drizzle over pancakes or waffles for a sweet and tangy twist.
2. Mix into lemon juice or other fruit juices for a refreshing and health-boosting beverage.
3. Add a splash of soda water to create a unique and flavorful elderberry soda.
4. Use as a cocktail mixer to infuse your favorite alcoholic drinks with a delicious, fruity flavor.
5. Top vanilla ice cream with elderberry syrup for a delightful and sophisticated dessert.
6. Blend into kombucha for a probiotic-rich, elderberry-infused drink.
7. Incorporate into homemade popsicles for a healthier frozen treat.
8. Sweeten and flavor tea with a spoonful of elderberry syrup.
9. Mix with local honey or maple syrup to create a delectable and nutritious sweetener.
10. Stir into marinades or glazes for a savory dish with a hint of elderberry's delicious taste.

FAQ

Can I use fresh elderberries instead of dried ones when making elderberry syrup?

Yes! If using fresh elderberries, I recommend using about 5 cups worth.

Can I make this in my Instant Pot?

Yes! We have a recipe for Instant Pot Elderberry Syrup on our sister site.

Can I cook it longer?

Yes. You aim to visibly see the liquid reduce by about half while simmering. Sometimes this takes a bit longer (and sometimes a bit less!)

Can I change the spices?

Yes! That is part of the beauty and fun of elderberry syrup. Have fun experimenting and adding some of your favorite flavoring agents. I sometimes add citrus peel and star anise. Enjoy the process!

How long can I store elderberry syrup?

Elderberry syrup has a shelf life of about 2 months when stored in the refrigerator.

How many servings per day should I take?

For adults, 1 tablespoon daily is sufficient for maintaining optimum health, but if you are sick or coming down with something, up to three times daily is a suitable amount. For children, 1 teaspoon daily is sufficient, increasing up to three times daily when sick.

What can I do with the leftover, strained elderberries?

You can discard them, throw them into a compost pile, throw them into baked goods, or you can make tea or infused vinegar with the leftover elderberries!

Who should not take elderberry syrup?

Elderberry should not be taken by individuals with autoimmune diseases, those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, or pregnant and breastfeeding women. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before using elderberry syrup, especially if there are underlying health conditions or if you are taking medications.

Does drinking elderberry syrup have side effects? 

While elderberry syrup is generally safe for most people, it may cause side effects in some individuals such as nausea, vomiting, or allergic reactions. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications. As with any supplement, it's best to use elderberry syrup in moderation and according to recommended dosages.

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