Elderberry-Tart Cherry Syrup... Be Well, Sleep Well

Elderberry-Tart Cherry Syrup from An Appetite For Joy

Flu-fighting elderberries are bundled with tart cherry juice (a natural source of sleep-regulating melatonin) into a delightful syrup.

This is simple to make and exceptionally frugal, costing around $1-$2 per 4 ounces vs. $10-$18 at the store.When I say elderberries are "anti-flu" I'm not referring to a vague immune-boosting action.Clinical studies show that Elderberry:

binds to and inhibits H1N1 infection, in vitro. (source)
suppresses the replication of the human flu virus, in vitro. (source)
inhibits viral replication in mice while simultaneously stimulating flu antibodies, in vivo. (source)

We've been enjoying a spoonful or two every day as the winter season approaches. I made extra, since this homemade tonic also makes a pretty and purposeful gift.

Where to find the ingredients and bottles.

Organic elderberries from Amazon
Budget-friendly elderberries from Vitacost
Tart cherry juice can be found at many grocery stores in the glass-bottle juice section
I like these 4-oz. amber bottles

Here's how I made it:

Elderberry-Tart Cherry Syrup

Makes about 16-20 ounces (4-5 four-ounce bottles)

1/2 cups dried elderberries
3 cups water
2 cups 100% tart cherry juice
honey to taste (optional, I use about 1/4 cup)

1. Combine dried elderberries and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil and lower to a simmer. Simmer for 30 minutes. (It will reduce to about 1 3/4 cups liquid or so).

2. Meanwhile, in a separate pan, simmer cherry juice for 30 minutes. (It will reduce to 1/2 cup or so).

3. Strain elderberry liquid, mashing elderberries (I used this masher, then the bottom of a bowl to push the liquid out of them.) Combine with cherry juice reduction in a tempered pitcher.

4. Add honey as desired. Keep refrigerated.

IMPORTANT NOTES: Honey should never be given to children under one. Make sure to check with your doctor or health care professional before taking any new supplements.

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