Wednesday 17 October 2012

Elderberry Immunity Boosting

Image courtesy of Forest Wander


As well as the glorious reddish golden leaves on the trees, Autumn can also bring sniffles, coughs and colds, so now is a good time to strengthen our immune systems.




The Elder tree’s gifts are of great value at this time of year. Elderberry Syrup is a traditional preventative and support for colds and flu with its antiviral properties. It’s delicious drizzled onto a warm bowl of porridge for breakfast or simply taken off the spoon.


Image courtesy of John Seb Barber
For a warming cuppa that packs an immune punch, 
try an exquisite Elderberry Herbal Chai.

Ingredients:
3 cups of water
1 or 2 star anise 
3 or 4 cloves 
3 or 4 cardamom pods 
few slices of fresh ginger 
2-3 slices of fresh lemon
stick of cinnamon
elderberry syrup

Bring three cups of water to a boil, then add fresh & dried herbs. Simmer for 5-10 minutes. Strain off liquid into cups, stir in a teaspoon of Elderberry Syrup into each one, and share with loved ones. Enjoy!

Image courtesy of Liam Moloney
If you do end up catching a cold or flu, you can boost your immunity by taking the syrup 3 times daily and also try the classic dried herb blend of Elderflower, Peppermint and Yarrow to help cool the body and ease congestion. 


Image courtesy of Jan Kaláb
Infuse a teaspoon of dried herbs per cup of boiled water for 5-10min. Strain and drink 3-4 cups daily, adding honey and lemon to taste if desired (not suitable for use during pregnancy).


To your flourishing health & wellness,

Fiona

P.S. For more seasonal tips and remedies, you are warmly invited to my Edinburgh based Autumn Immune Boosting Herbal Workshops, or consider coming in for a holistic health check up and personalised herbal prescription at one of my herbal clinics.