Elderberry is a perfect answer to coughs and flues. Elderberries have antioxidants, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties which help fight infections better and give relief from coughs and colds .Elderberries are also known to act as detoxifying and soothing agents and are very good for the respiratory system. No wonder that there are several commercial brands of elderberry cough syrup available with your local chemist. But why risk your health with the harmful chemicals when you can actually prepare elderberry cough syrup at home.
Mentioned Below Are Two Methods To Prepare The Elderberry Cough Syrup At Home:
Method 1:
Ingredients:
One cup of fresh elderberries, 3 cups of water, one cup of raw honey, one stick of cinnamon, 3 cloves and 1 teaspoon of fresh grated ginger.
Procedure:
In a pan add the elderberries, water, cinnamon, cloves and grated ginger. Mix well. Boil the mixture. Once the mixture starts boiling, let the mixture simmer on a low flame till you get a thick liquid of syrup like consistency. This should take about 30 minutes .Now remove the pan from the gas and smash the elderberries .Strain the mixture and let it cool completely. Once the mixture has cooled add the honey and blend well .Elderberry cough syrup is ready. Store it in a bottle. It usually has a shelf life on 2 months.
Method 2:
Ingredients:
Half cup of dried elderberries,2 tablespoons of dried elder flowers, 2 tablespoons of dried plantain leaf, half cup honey and 4 cups of water.
Procedure:
Take the dried elderberries, dried elder flowers, dried plantain leaf and water in a pan and boil the mixture. Now let it simmer for 15 minutes and place the container in an oven. Let the mixture simmer in the oven for two hours. Now remove the container from the oven and heat the mixture on stove till you get thick syrup like consistency. Remove from the stove and let the mixture cool down completely. Now add the honey and mix well. Elderberry cough syrup is ready to use. Store it in a container. It has a shelf life of 2 months.
This elderberry cough syrup can be had when the first symptoms of cough occur. Usually 2 tablespoons of the syrup thrice daily is the ideal dose for adults. In case of children seek the guidance of pediatrician.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.