Easy To Make Potent Elderberry Syrup For All Ages

🌿 Elderberry Syrup Made Easy * My Go-To Recipe

Sweet, soothing, and steeped in centuries of herbal tradition. The magic of homemade elderberry syrup.

As the air turns crisp and the golden light of autumn deepens, nature whispers its timeless reminder: it’s time to fortify and nourish ourselves for the colder days ahead. Among the herbal world’s most beloved allies stands the elderberry (Sambucus nigra).

 Elderberries have been cherished for centuries in kitchens and apothecaries around the globe. Long before modern research confirmed their role in supporting healthy immune response*, healers were simmering these tiny treasures into rich tonics, wines, and syrups. Their magic lies not only in their nutrients but in the ritual itself, the stirring, the scent, the slow alchemy of self-care.

 So why syrup? Because it’s both practical and delightful. When blended with raw honey (or other organic vegan options), elderberries transform into a potion that’s naturally preserved and irresistibly palatable. Honey’s natural sweetness softens the berries’ tart bite while extending the syrup’s shelf life, giving you a simple, elegant union of flavor and function.

 And let’s not forget pleasure: elderberry syrup isn’t just a wellness ritual, it’s a culinary joy. Drizzle it over pancakes or oatmeal, swirl it into sparkling water, or spoon it straight from the jar for a cozy moment of care. Some traditional recipes even include a dash of brandy or high-proof spirit for a longer shelf life and a touch of warmth — though the honey  (or vegan syrups) alone often makes it delicious enough to savor all season.

 Your jar of elderberry syrup isn’t just a tonic. It’s a small, daily celebration of vitality, a way to honor your body, connect with the rhythms of the Earth, and sweeten the turning of the year.

*Statements not evaluated by the FDA.

✨ Here’s my go-to Elderberry Syrup Recipe — simple, beautiful, and infused with care.

Yields approximately 3 cups of elderberry syrup without alcohol, and 4 cups with alcohol.
Working Time: About 1 hour

 Ingredients 

·        2 cups certified organic dried elderberries. Buy Organic Elderberry Here

·        4 cups cold water (I like to use spring water or purified water).

·        2-3 tsp. organic dried ginger root, or 1-2 tsp. organic dried ginger powder.  Buy Ginger Root Here

·        Optional: add 1 organic Ceylon cinnamon stick, and/or 2-4 organic cloves. Leave the cloves out if making for children or infants.

·        1 cup of raw local honey if available. For vegans or infants under the age of 2 years, you can use organic maple syrup or agave syrup. You can also use twice the amount of sweetener if you want to increase the shelf life.

·        To increase the shelf life even more, you can add 1 cup of vodka or an acceptable alcohol. 

Directions for Making Elderberry Syrup

1.      Combine elderberries, ginger root, and Ceylon cinnamon with cold water in a saucepan or soup pot and bring to just below a boil.

2.      Once the water is just below boiling, reduce the heat and simmer 45 minutes with the lid on.

3.      Remove from heat and let steep 1 hour with the lid off to let the syrup reduce and thicken. Alternatively, you can leave the lid on and let it sit for a longer period of time and slow the evaporation process (my favorite way of doing it).

4.      Strain the herbs and throw them in your compost. Be careful as it may still be hot! To strain, I like to use a funnel shaped strainer with cheesecloth, a clean cotton flour sack material or undyed cotton muslin bag laid over it. Allow the mixture to strain, then squeeze out any remaining liquid.

5.      When your strained liquid is at or just above room temperature, add honey/sweetener and stir thoroughly. I like to use a hand whisk or hand blender on low setting.

6.      If you’re using vodka/alcohol to lengthen the shelf life, add 1 cup and continue to mix until well blended.

7.      Bottle in sterilized glass jar or bottle.

8.      Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks if made without alcohol. 

Reminder:

·        When your berries have given all their goodness, invite honey to join the mix — at least half the volume of your finished brew. The honey seals in the magic, keeping your syrup vibrant and true. (Two cups of decoction? Add at least one cup of honey, a perfect harmony of sweetness and strength.)

You can pare this recipe down for a smaller batch or multiply to give as gifts. And what a fabulous gift to give! Each spoonful is a reminder that nature provides both beauty and balance — that healing can be sweet, simple, and made with your own hands. From our island to yours, may your days be brightened by the gifts of Earth and the quiet power of your own mindful rituals.

·        Serving size for Adults 18+ years:

• Daily Use: Take 1 tablespoon daily during cold and flu season.
• Acute Use: Increase to 1 tablespoon 4 times a day at the onset of symptoms.

·        Serving size for Children Over 2 years old:

• Daily Use: Take 1 teaspoon daily during the cold and flu season.
• Acute Use: Increase to 1 teaspoon 3 times a day at the onset of symptoms.

·        Serving size for Infants 1-2 years old:

• Daily Use: Take ½ teaspoon daily during the cold and flu season.
• Acute Use: Increase to ½ teaspoon 2 times a day at the onset of symptoms.

Born from lightning. Rooted in Earth. Crafted for healing.
Mother Island Botanicals

The fine print: Do your research before using any herbs. Consult a health care provider before using, especially if you may be pregnant, are nursing, may have health or allergy conditions, or are using with children. None of our products are intended to replace medical care, provide a diagnosis, treatment, or cure for any conditions. Statements not evaluated by the FDA.