03/07/2026
How to Make Elderberry Syrup
This classic elderberry syrup combines antioxidant-rich elderberries with warm spices to help your body respond to seasonal stress. Plus, it comes together in under an hour, providing targeted relief when you need it most.
This recipe uses pure ingredients that make it more effective than store-bought versions and much cheaper.
Ingredients
4 cups water
1 cup dried elderberries
1 T fresh ginger, sliced or grated
1 cinnamon stick or 1 tl ground cinnamon
3-4 whole cloves
¾-1 cup raw honey, to taste
Instructions
Step One: Place the elderberries, water, ginger, cinnamon stick, and clove into a saucepan set over medium heat. If you’re using ground cinnamon, stir.
Step Two: Bring the herbs to a gentle boil, then turn the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes, until the liquid has reduced by about half.
Step Three: Remove the elderberry mixture from heat and cool for 5 minutes. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh strainer, pressing the contents to retain all the juices. Discard the leftover berries.
Step Four: While the liquid is still warm, stir in the honey until dissolved. This will thicken the mixture, and it will thicken even more when chilled.
Step Five: Pour into a clean glass jar or bottle, and for best results, refrigerate immediately.
If you want the ready-made version—and something significantly more potent—here’s what you need to know:
Syrups dilute elderberry with water. Tinctures are pure concentrated extract. Alcohol extraction pulls out both water-soluble and alcohol-soluble compounds—meaning you get the full spectrum of elderberry’s medicinal properties.
One dropperful of 100% Organic Elderberry Tincture delivers more active compounds than a full tablespoon of syrup.
You can take it straight (a few drops under the tongue for fast absorption), or mix it with honey for a soothing throat remedy. The two work synergistically—honey coats and soothes while elderberry fights infection.
Either way, it’s ready in 20 seconds. No simmering. No straining. No waiting for it to cool.
This Elderberry Tincture is dual-extracted for maximum potency—and costs a fraction of chemical-filled store-bought syrups.
How to Use This Remedy
This elderberry syrup is great for adults and older children. Because it contains honey, don’t give it to children under 1. Pregnant or nursing? Consult your care provider first.
Dosage:
Adults: 1 tablespoon daily
Children: 2-3 teaspoons daily
At first sign of illness: Increase to 2-3 times daily
Storage:
Store in a glass jar away from light and heat. Lasts 2-3 months in the fridge. For longer storage, freeze in ice cube trays (5-6 months). Use a clean utensil every time. Discard if you see mold, rancid taste, or off odor.
Optional additions:
Boost your syrup with peppermint (coughs), thyme (congestion), fennel (digestion), rosehips (vitamin C), or elderflower (lymphatic support).
