Immune System Building

Elderberry Syrup: A Magic Immunity Elixir?

http://www.farmersalmanac.com/health/2014/02/03/elderberry-syrup-a-magic-immunity-elixir/

For centuries, traditional European folk medicine has touted the benefits of elderberry extract for immune support, and now modern science is finally catching up.
Recent studies have found that a commercial preparation of elderberry extract called Sambucol is more effective than other over-the-counter remedies at shortening the duration and severity of the flu.
This comes as no surpise to the many people who swear by elderberry syrup, which is said to boost the immune system, prevent the flu or colds, alleviate excessive mucus and soothe sore throats.
A flowering plant in the honeysuckle family, elderberries are native to Europe, Asia, and the Americas. They are most commonly found in “edge” areas of woods, such as along rivers and roads. In addition to their illness-fighting properties, elderberries are also full of antioxidants, potassium, beta carotene, calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin C.
You can buy elderberry extracts at most health food stores, though they can be expensive. To save money, it’s easy to make your own. Here’s a recipe for homemade elderberry syrup.
Elderberry Syrup
Ingredients:
1 cup black elderberries
3 cups water
1 cup raw local honey
Directions:
Place berries and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes. Crush the berries and strain of the skins. Allow to cool before stirring in honey.
For best results, take one tablespoon daily when you’re well. You can take it on its own, or add it to fruit smoothies, yogurt, ice cream, or maple syrup. If you do come down with a cold or the flu, take a teaspoon every few hours until you recover.
Elderberry syrup is as good for kids as it is for adult, but it’s important to remember never to give products containing raw honey to children under 2.

```````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````````` 

Elderberry Syrup Gummies – Individually sized immunity boosting treats

http://www.healthhomehappy.com/2014/02/elderberry-syrup-gummies-individually-sized-immunity-boosting-treats.html

Recipe:

2-1/2 cups filtered water
1/3 cup dried elderberries
1/2 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla, optional
1/2 cup gelatin

Directions:

1. Make a tea out of the elderberries: Bring water to a boil, then add elderberries and simmer for 5 minutes, or until dark in color.
2. Drain, reserving the liquid. You should have about 2 cups.
3. Add in honey and vanilla and allow to cool.
4. Stir in gelatin (it’s easier to stir into room temp liquid) until all clumps are out and mixture is uniform.
5. Heat in a saucepan over medium-low until gelatin is all dissolved.
6. Pour into a glass container to set.
7. Allow to set in the fridge.
8. Cut into approx 1/2 inch by 1 inch cubes, or as desired.
9. Take one or more daily, as desired.
10. Store in the fridge.

*****************************************************************************

 Organic Consumers Association's

You've likely sipped ginger ale or ginger tea when you've had an upset stomach. Ginger’s fantastic for nausea – and so much more. Learn more here: http://orgcns.org/1cGD1kw

‪#‎Health‬ ‪#‎Natural‬