My little family is feeling under the weather, so I figured it was time to finally try my hand at making elderberry syrup. It’s an old herbal remedy to help prevent and cope with colds*. I followed Mountain Rose Herbs’ video recipe. As the mixture simmered, the divine aroma of berries, cinnamon, ginger, and clove wafted through the home. So not only can it help internally, but this simmering syrup will add a festive atmosphere to your abode when you may otherwise feel blah. According to European folk tradition, elder has been used to ward off negative spirits. So think of cooking it as a sort of spiritual fumigation. Yet another way to create a purifying fragrance without the use of incense during the winter months? Hmmm…
As for the syrup itself, it’s delicious. A whole cup of local honey will do that! Even my little Bee enjoys a teaspoon here and there…
*It is not meant to replace stronger medicines should the need arise.
Author M. A. Phillips 
Awesome work, mama! Sounds like a lovely entry for your Magic 2 journal 😉
Thanks! Yes, I’ve been even more mindful of what I’m doing since you contributed to that discussion!
I love that you did also put the disclamer. Yay for responsibleness!!! speaking of colds *sneezes* another thing that works really well for those who can tolerate it is 1T lemon juice 1T honey 1/4-1/2t dried ginger with water to make a mug full, boiled and drank. It helps sore throats and helps fight off colds as well 🙂
I forgot to add, a pinch of salt or 2 in there cuts the sweetness of the honey, without replacing it’s benefits as well as helps soothe sore throats 🙂 Himalayan salt is really nice in it 🙂
I’m one of those people who doesn’t like to use medication unless it’s absolutely necessary, and when that happens, don’t get in-between me and my prescription! LOL!
Also, you just described one of my favorite infusions! I’ve never tried it with salt, though. I’ll have to add that next time just to see, although I enjoy the sweetness.
Hope you feel better!