Sambucus nigra has a long history as a traditional medicinal plant. The father of medicine himself, Hippocrates, referred to it as “nature’s medicine chest” and recommended elderberry for a wide variety of conditions. The berries are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, and are believed to protect against viral entry into human cells and interfere with virus replication.

Elderberry syrup is a tried and true remedy, and people swear by it for shortening the duration of colds, and general immunity building for good reason. It’s effective, easy to make, safe and tastes great – what’s not to love?

By the way, there’s no rule that says you have to wait until cold & flu season to make and use of elderberry. The syrup makes a great cocktail spritzer and also tastes divine drizzled over ice cream ??