With the beauty of autumn and the peacefulness of falling leaves and shorter days comes the darkness of colds and flues. We are not defenceless against it and we can battle it with home-made remedies. Last weekend I spent time in the kitchen preparing a new batch of remedies and feeling the connection with Mother Nature I decided to share it today. These are very simple recipes and although you can buy ready-made products, it is much cheaper to make your own.
ELDERBERRY SYRUP
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) as a remedy is very popular in Europe, Asia and North America. There is more and more research into the benefits of berries and flowers for human health and wellbeing, although herbalists knew of it for centuries. Berries are traditionally used in treatments of colds and catarrh of the upper respiratory tract; they are mild anti-inflammatory and have antiviral properties. They are also very good at boosting the immune system when the colds and viruses are taking their realms.
To make syrup you will need:
50g of dried elderberries
750ml of water
Honey (I usually add two big spoonfuls, but you can add more for taste if you like)
- Put the berries into a pot and cover with water. Bring to the boil and simmer over low heat for approximately 45 minutes.
- Squash the berries really well. Strain the mixture and add honey. Mix well.
- Bottle the syrup, put a date on the bottle, let it cool and store in the fridge. It will keep in the fridge for 2-3 months.
DOSAGE:
Take 2-3 tablespoons of syrup and mix with a little warm water. Take 3-4 times a day.
USE ONLY BLUE ELDERBERRIES, THE RED ONES ARE TOXIC. NEVER EAT ELDERBERRIES THAT HAVEN’T BEEN COOKED FIRST. DO NOT USE IF YOU ARE PREGNANT OR BREASTFEEDING WITHOUT CONSULTING YOUR HERBALIST OR GP FIRST.
IT IS SAFE FOR CHILDREN AND BABIES OVER 12 MONTHS. DO NOT GIVE HONEY TO CHILDREN UNDER 1 YEAR!