Elderberry Oxymel

Elderberry oxymel is a sweet and tangy syrup made with elderberries, honey, and apple cider vinegar. It's a traditional cold and flu remedy that's said to boost the immune system and help fight off infection. Elderberries are packed with antioxidants, and honey is a natural antibacterial. Apple cider vinegar is also a powerful antimicrobial. Together, these ingredients make a powerful tonic that can help you stay healthy during cold and flu season.

The history of elderberry oxymel goes back centuries. The ancient Greeks and Romans used elderberries to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, flu, and fever. In the Middle Ages, elderberries were used to make a syrup called "rob of elderberries," which was used to treat a wide range of illnesses. Elderberry oxymel is still popular today, and it's a great way to boost your immune system and help fight off infection.

Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried elderberries
• 2 cups raw honey
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon black peppercorns

Instructions

1. Combine the elderberries, honey, apple cider vinegar, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, ginger, and black peppercorns in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and let cool for 1 hour.
5. Strain the oxymel into a clean glass jar.
6. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.

Why It Works

• Elderberries are packed with antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.
• Honey is a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent.
• Apple cider vinegar is a powerful antimicrobial.
• The combination of these ingredients makes elderberry oxymel a potent tonic that can help you stay healthy during cold and flu season.