This week we are spotlighting my superstar wellness essential ELDERBERRY!

Winter months really take a toll on our immune systems and let's be real if you have children... you are just screwed. Lol I work with so many kids and teens that attend public school which makes me the perfect subject to getting the crud.

Elderberry has really come into my life and become a rockstar in my wanna be apothecary. I take a tablespoon or shot of elderberry syrup as often as I can and mix it into my daily hot teas and it keeps me going.

So what is the secret behind elderberries? Well they are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and immune supporting nutrients.

Let me tell you about the top benefits of this magical little berry!

First,,, immune support galore. It is best known for its ability to strengthen your immune system. Studies suggest that elderberry extract can reduce the severity and duration of colds. The high levels of vitamin C help support your body's natural defense.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects are coming in at number 2. I imagine all of us experience some sort of stiffness or joint pain during the winter months. Well surprise! Elderberries can help with that!

Now how on earth do you add this magical little berry into your life? Well I am glad you have made it this far because this is the fun stuff!

My favorite way is to make elderberry syrup! Not the store bought crap because let's be real, it just is not that great. I make my own and I will tag where I get my berries from and everything else in the recipe at the end!

Another favorite way to use elderberries daily is to add them into my daily herbal tea. I love mixing them into green tea blends and white tea blends. They add a fun punch of flavor.

Now a word of caution when using elderberries..

DO NOT EAT THEM RAW. They must be properly cooked or processed. They will make you sick.

Always talk to your doctor if you plan o adding any herbs into your diet that may interfere with medication or conditions!

Time for the fun part!

Elderberry Syrup

1 Cups Elderberries

3 Cups Water

1-2 Anise Star Pods

1tsp Cloves

1-2 Cinnamon Sticks

Honey

You will need cheese cloth, large bowl, jar to put syrup in.

Directions

Put Elderberries and Water in a pot and bring to a boil. Once you reach a boil add in cinnamon stick, cloves, anise star pods and allow to simmer for 20 minutes or until the liquid reduces in half. Once the liquid reduces you will need to let the liquid cool off before the next step.

Once liquid is cooled off you will strain it through the cheesecloth. Really squeeze the cloth and get all the juice out of those berries! Once everything is squeezed out, allow the liquid to cool completely is not already cool. You will then add honey. I prefer honey local to my area for the best benefit! I add as much to taste as I want. I like it sweet, so I add quite a bit. Stir everything together and take daily or add to tea, oatmeal, ice cream. Anything you want. The bottle will last 6 months in the fridge, but you should sue it all by then!