We have a PSA on one of our favorite topics: herbal product quality, especially when it comes to elderberry. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra/canadensis) is one of those gateway herbs that is now ubiquitous. But how impossible is it to stare down the wellness aisle of your local store and choose the best out of the 16 elderberry supplements, or scroll through your search engine trying to compare elderberry syrup price, quality, and value among several different brands? 

Elderberry Elixir or Syrup Buying Guide

Many households - especially those with young children or immune systems that need extra support - rely on elderberry on a daily basis for maintaining wellness all year round. So it's essential to get an herbal preparation that is not only concentrated but also affordable. Below, we give you some insider pointers for what to look for if you really want to get the best berry bang for your buck. We've been harvesting, processing, and concocting elderberry products since 1994 and are passionate about elderberry's place as a permanent fixture in traditional herbalism, not a trending superfood of the year. So when it comes to selecting the right elderberry product for you, consider the following.

Elderberry Elixir or Syrup


Elderberry Recipes

We also love infusing cocktails and mocktails with Elderberry Elixir as a fun way of kicking a drink up a notch in terms of its benefits. A little goes a long way! Splash a dropperful of Elderberry Elixir into your next fruity or floral-forward cocktail or try our Respect-Your-Elders Martini recipe with the addition of Carolina Bitters (below). 

Respect Your Elders Elderberry Martini Cocktail


Elderberry Syrup Recipe

Do you have dried elderberries that are ready to make your own syrup? We're sharing our choice recipe with you for the best elderberry syrup around. Our family favorite for years, it's as delicious as it is useful!
1/2 cup dried elderberries
2 1/2 cups water
1/2-2/3 cup honey
1. Cook on low-medium simmer for about 30-45 minutes until the liquid is reduced by about half.
2. Mash the berries then strain the liquid. 
3. Add honey as follows: around 1 part decoction to 1 part honey.
4. Let cool, bottle, and store in fridge for 2-3 months.
Elderberry Syrup Recipe
January 22, 2023 — Heather Wood Buzzard

Leave a comment

Please note: comments must be approved before they are published.