Elderberry Immunity Syrup with Rose Hips and Astragalus
When the cold and flu season comes around, you might find it helpful to have this elderberry immunity syrup with rose hips and astragalus in supply! This elderberry syrup is tasty enough that even picky kids won't mind taking their herbal medicine! Note: for those with autoimmune disease, please consult your physician before using any immune enhancing herbs.
Adult dosage: 1-2 teaspoons, 3x daily
Children, ages 6-12: 1/2 teaspoon, 2-3X daily
Children, ages 2-4: 1/4 teaspoon, 2x daily
Servings: 2 cups
- 1 cup fresh elderberries or 1/2 cup dried
- 1/4 cup dried rose hips or 1/2 fresh
- 1/4 cup dried astragalus root
- juice of one small lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar (to help prevent crystallization)
- 2 cups water
- 2 cup organic sugar
In a small saucepan, combine water, elderberries, astragalus, and rose hips. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, and continue to simmer uncovered for 20-30 minutes. Remove from heat and strain solids away from the liquid. The resulting volume should be about one cup; reduce further OR add more water to adjust.
Return the liquid to the saucepan. Add sugar, lemon juice and cream of tartar. Over medium high heat, cook the mixture until it reads 220 degrees (F) on a candy thermometer. Remove from heat.
Cool slightly, and pour into sterilized bottles for storage. Refrigerate after opening.