DIY Louisiana Elderberry Syrup

• 2 cups ripe fresh black or blue elderberries or 1cups dried elderberries
• 4 cups water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1  cups raw honey or maple syrup
• cloves

• Pour the water into a saucepan and then add in the elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and orange.
• Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, cooked uncovered.
• Once the mixture is reduced by half remove from the heat and allow to cool.
• Strain the liquid and discard the berries, cinnamon stick, and cloves.
• When the elderberry syrup is cool to the touch add in the honey and stir until combined.
• Store in the refrigerator and use as needed or to just boost your immunity.

Elderberry syrup uses are variable and diverse, including topping onto waffles and pancakes, mixing into teas, or using solely for these medicinal purposes:

Used for cold and Flu help:

•  adults take 1-2 tablespoons of elderberry syrup 2-3 times per day at the onset of a cold or flu, and throughout the duration of the illness.
• For small children (ages 1-5), 1-2 teaspoons twice per day is good. That amount can be increased as the child grows.
• Elderberry syrup should not be given to children under the age of one due to the raw honey.
• Please check with your doctor as this is just my suggestion.