Elderberry syrup and elderberry gummies are some of my favorite things to have on hand to keep our family’s immune system healthy, strong and protected when seasonal threats are high.
Benefits
Elderberries are naturally high in vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6, iron and potassium, among several other essential nutrients. They provide cold and flu relief due to its powerful immune-boosting properties.
“Research actually shows that elderberry is a safe, efficient and cost-effective treatment for the common cold and flu. A 2021 systematic review screened 1,187 records and five randomized trials on elderberry for the treatment or prevention of viral respiratory illness. Researchers found that elderberry may reduce the duration and severity of symptoms related to colds and influenza, and there’s no evidence that it overstimulates the immune system.” – Dr. Axe
Elderberries also reduce sinus infection symptoms, lowers blood sugar, acts as a natural diuretic, supports skin health, eases allergies, may improve heart health, and could have cancer-fighting effects.
To make or to buy?
Making your own elderberry syrup will let you have the most control with your ingredients and you can customize it to your taste preferences. Elderberry syrup is typically sweetened with honey. When you make your own, you can use raw, local honey to give you even more benefits and protection from your local pollen. Or, if you have a baby under a year that you to have elderberry syrup, you can sweeten with maple syrup instead!
I’ve taken all the guesswork out of DIY elderberry syrup for you with my elderberry syrup kits you can find here on Etsy! I researched and tested the best ingredients and came up with the best recipe for your family. The kit comes with the raw ingredients, a mesh brewing bag and instruction card. You simply add water and make on the stovetop or Instant pot, then add your own sweetener.
If you prefer something pre-made, look for elderberry syrup or capsules that do not have added sugar (other than honey/maple syrup). You don’t need sugar when you’re sick or avoiding getting sick – sugar weakens your immune system!
- I like this elderberry syrup from the Elderberry Queen
- Or these elderberry options from MaryRuth’s (use code “HOLVIBEWELLNESS” for 15% off your order)
Elderberry Gummies
Elderberry gummies are our families favorite way to get our elderberry in daily – especially the kids! They’re pretty easy to make and fun to try new flavor combinations. Pro tip: after you are done using your food processor or blender, add a little soap and water to it and blend on high for a minute to easily clean it while you’re working on the gummies.
Ingredients
- 1 cup elderberry syrup
- 1 cup fruit (frozen strawberries are my favorite)
- 2 tbsp gelatin (I like beef gelatin from Thrive Market)
- Silicone molds or baking dish for gummies
Instructions
- Pour ½ cup elderberry syrup in bowl, sprinkle gelatin powder over it to bloom, set aside
- Combine remaining ½ cup elderberry syrup in small saucepan with fruit, simmer on low for 5 minutes
- Remove from heat and allow to cool, add cooled contents of saucepan to a blender or food processor and blend until just puréed
- Add bloomed gelatin mixture to food processor and purée until just combined
- Return everything back to saucepan to warm for about 3 minutes
- Pour into silicone molds
- Refrigerate for 1-2 hours
- Remove from molds and store in airtight container for 7-10 days