Self Care

Sambucus nigra

It’s Elderberry season!

As we head into the darker/colder months, Elderberry ripens their berries in offering. As our exposure to sunlight decreases, especially here in the PNW, our bodies are not receiving enough vitamin D – a vital part of our immune systems. Elderberry syrup is an age-old remedy for nourishing and supporting our immune systems, help us stay healthy during the Autumn and Winter.

In case you missed it, here is an excellent recipe by @gatherwise

2 cups elderberries (dried or fresh)

2 tbsp calendula

2 tbsp yarrow flowers

2 tbsp nettle

2 tbsp burdock root

2 cinnamon sticks

1 tbsp ginger

1tbsp astragalus

10 cloves

1-2 chunks orange peel

4-5 cups filtered water

1-2 cups honey

Combine berries and herbs in large pot with water and bring to boil

Reduce heat, mash berries and herbs with a potato masher to release the medicine and let simmer for 30 minutes to 1-2 hours

Remove from heat and cool for 2 hours

Strain berries and herbs

Add honey

Store in clean bottle in fridge for 3-6 months

I like to take about 1-3 tsp daily. You can add it to tea, smoothies, a glass of water, yogurt, cocktails/mocktails, and whatever else you can think of.