My littlest woke up this morning with a sore throat and stuffy nose…poor thing just started school last week and they’re already sharing germs. So I figured today would be a great time to whip up a batch of homemade elderberry syrup.
Years ago while recovering from a bout of the flu, my doctor suggested I try this all-natural remedy. I’ve purchased many bottles from the store, before realizing that I could easily make this at home for a fraction of the cost. I’m no doctor but after a quick online search I discovered some of the benefits of elderberries: immune system boost, cold and flu relief, aids with sinus infections, can lower blood sugar, natural diuretic, natural laxative, encourage healthy skin and helps ease allergies.
I used to make this over the stove top but using the Instapot is even easier! The basic recipe consists of only 3 ingredients, but you can add various spices for more flavor (which I prefer).
INSTAPOT ELDERBERRY SYRUP
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried elderberries
- 4 cups water
- 1/2-1 cup raw honey
Optional Ingredients (for more flavor):
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 piece ginger (about 1″, peeled)
- 5 cloves (whole)
- 1 star anise
Directions:
- Add all ingredients (EXCEPT for raw honey) to Instapot and mix.
- Lock lid and cook at High Pressure for 10 minutes.
- Allow for Natural Release.
- Use Saute function to reduce liquid (by about half).
- Allow to cool, then strain out elderberries, etc.
- Add raw honey (using as little or much as desired, for taste) and mix well.
- Place in a glass jar and refrigerate (for up to 2 weeks, or freeze if needed).
Take a single teaspoon homemade elderberry syrup twice a day for preventive measure. When sick, use more as necessary (up to 3 teaspoons, 4 times a day). For young children (who cannot have raw honey) half the dosage or dilute with hot water before serving.