Herbal Elderberry Syrup with Lemon Balm: A Unique Recipe for Immune and Respiratory Support
Creating a unique elderberry syrup isn’t about randomly tossing herbs together and hoping for the best. It’s about thoughtfully combining ingredients with strategy, purpose, and a clear intention behind each herb and its role in the formula.
By adding lemon balm for its calming and antiviral properties, thyme for its respiratory and antimicrobial benefits, lemon to add a natural boost of vitamin C, and cinnamon for its warming properties that stimulate circulation (of this formula) and to promote warmth in the body, you enhance the synergy of the elderberries' immune-boosting qualities.
When done well, this intentional layering of herbs creates a formula that’s far greater than the sum of its parts, offering a multifaceted remedy that supports the body on multiple levels.
Ingredients:
1 cup dried elderberries (or 2 cups fresh elderberries)
4 cups water
1/4 cup dried lemon balm (or 1/2 cup fresh)
1 tablespoon dried thyme (immune support and respiratory health)
2 cinnamon sticks (optional: for warmth and added flavor)
Zest and juice of 1 lemon (brightens and enhances preservation with vitamin C)
1/2–3/4 cup raw honey (adjust to taste)
Instructions:
Simmer the Base:
Combine elderberries, water, cinnamon sticks, thyme, and lemon zest in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–45 minutes, or until the liquid reduces by half.Add Lemon Balm:
Remove the pan from heat and add the dried (or fresh) lemon balm. Cover and let it steep for 15–20 minutes to extract the gentle, calming and anti-viral properties of lemon balm without overheating it.Strain the Mixture:
Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain the liquid into a clean bowl, pressing the berries to extract all the juice. Discard the solids.Add Lemon Juice and Honey:
Once the liquid has cooled to lukewarm (not hot), stir in the lemon juice and raw honey. Mix until fully dissolved.Bottle and Store:
Pour the syrup into a sterilized glass jar or bottle. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 months.
Dosage:
Adults: 1 tablespoon daily as a preventative. Increase to 1 tablespoon every 3–4 hours if feeling unwell.
Children (over 1 year): 1 teaspoon daily as a preventative. Increase to 1 teaspoon every 3–4 hours if feeling unwell.
Why This Recipe is Unique:
Lemon Balm: Adds a calming, antiviral boost and a refreshing flavor.
Thyme: Supports respiratory health with its antimicrobial properties.
Cinnamon: Warms and enhances the immune-boosting qualities.
Lemon Zest and Juice: Elevates the flavor and provides additional vitamin C for immune support.
Feel free to adjust the recipe based on your personal preferences or available ingredients!
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