It's called Elderberry, and it's got the wisdom of the ages...at least when it comes to fighting colds and flu. Rosemary Gladstar, who wrote the new cookbook Medicinal Herbs, talked to Tonia's Kitchen about Elderberries and how they work to warm the body when its cold outside. Rosemary told Tonia about the ways she prepares Elderberry to work as a tonic, in fighting what makes you sick. She says Elderberry syrup, taken as a shot in the morning really works wonders with your body.
1 cup fresh or ½ cup dried Elderberries
3 cups Water
1 cup Honey
1. Place the berries in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer over low heat for 30 to 45 minutes.
2. Smash the berries. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer and add 1 cup of honey, or adjust to taste.
3. Bottle the syrup and store in the refrigerator, where it will keep for 2 to 3 months.
Caution: Use only blue/black elderberries; the red ones are potentially toxic.
