
Homemade Elderberry Syrup (sambucol)
If you’ve read my previous post about natural ways to fight a cold, you’re already aware of the significance of elderberry juice. It boasts numerous benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, diaphoretic, expectorant, diuretic, immune-boosting, and antioxidant properties. Additionally, it can help lower cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
That’s why I want to share a special recipe for homemade elderberry syrup. Even though the season for fresh elderberries has passed, you can still make syrup with dried elderberries, which are a great alternative.
Speaking of elderberries, I remember an experience I had while picking them for syrup in a local park. I was nearly finished with my “harvesting mission” when a woman approached me. She looked at me disapprovingly and said, “These fruits belong to nature, not to you!” Clearly, she wasn’t a fan of homemade syrups. Since that encounter, I’ve been more cautious and now prefer to buy dried elderberries or choose more secluded locations for foraging.
Recipe for Homemade Elderberry Syrup
In Patrick Holford’s original recipe, there are only three ingredients: elderberries, water, and honey. However, I added a few spices to give the syrup more character, so it wouldn’t taste like just sweet water.

Ingredients (for about 500ml of syrup)
- 2 cups dried elderberries
- 4 cups water
- 3 tablespoons honey (you can add more, to taste)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 5 cloves
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (or more if you like the warming effect)
Preparation:
- Pour water over the elderberries and bring it to a boil.
- Add cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, then simmer for about 30 minutes without a lid.
- After this time, set the syrup aside to cool, and then strain it through a sieve or cheesecloth.
- Once the liquid has cooled slightly (but is still warm), add honey and stir well.
- Pour the syrup into sterilized bottles and store it in the fridge for about 2-3 months. The syrup will initially be runny but will thicken after about two weeks.

How to use elderberry syrup?
Homemade elderberry syrup is not only a tasty addition to winter tea but also an excellent immune-boosting remedy. You can add a spoonful of syrup to hot tea, water, or take it directly by the teaspoon. Elderberry syrup is very versatile.
Why is it worth it?

Elderberry juice is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and compounds that strengthen the immune system. Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves also have anti-inflammatory and warming properties, making this syrup perfect for cold winter days.
In summary:
Homemade elderberry syrup is a natural alternative to store-bought products full of sugar. With a simple recipe and a few healthy ingredients, you can make your own effective cold remedy that will support your immune system throughout the winter. Try the elderberry syrup recipe and discover how tasty health can be!
Feel free to try the recipe and share your thoughts and your own recipes. Don’t forget to join me on Facebook to stay updated on new posts. Elderberry juice is an excellent way to maintain good health!

