Everlasting Gardener

Joanie Lapic Herb Specialist

Joanie’s Elderberry Syrup

Since elderberry extract inhibits several strains of influenza viruses and hastens recovery from the flu, this is an ideal flu season tonic:
4 or 5 c. dried elderberries, soaked in water until plump (or 6 cups fresh berries)
½ to 1 cup organic, local honey
1 tsp. fresh grated ginger
¼ tsp. cloves
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
2 cups vodka
Mash and strain the elderberries, so that you get about 2 cups juice.
Simmer juice, honey, ginger and cloves, for 20 to 30 min.
Remove from heat, add lemon juice and vodka.
Pour into a bottle, cap, label and store in the refrigerator for up to a year.
At the first sign of flu symptoms, take 4 tablespoons a day.
(Adapted from a Brigitte Mars recipe)

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