Everything Elderberry
Elderberry is an amazing medicinal plant and is fairly mainstream as an immune boosting superfood these days. It is a personal favorite not only for its medicinal properties but also for its fantastic flavor. This humble little berry has a long history of use for supporting the immune system, calming inflammation, and helping our bodies weather the changing seasons with grace.
Today I want to share some of the medicinal properties of elderberry, how I use it in my own home, and why it’s worth making space for—whether in your medicine cabinet, your syrup shelf, or your backyard.
What Makes Elderberry So Great?
Herbal Energetics:
In herbalism, we don’t just look at what a plant does—we also pay attention to how it interacts with the body. Elderberries are considered cooling, drying, pungent, and sweet, making them a good fit for conditions with heat, excess moisture, or inflammation. Think fevers, hot coughs, or swollen sinuses. Elderberry can help bring balance in those moments when the body is working hard to fight something off.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Elderberry has been shown to calm the inflammatory response, especially in the respiratory tract. If you’ve ever felt that scratchy throat and sinus pressure creeping in, elderberry may help reduce swelling and discomfort so your body can recover more efficiently.
Antioxidant Rich
That deep purple color isn’t just pretty—it’s a sign of elderberry’s high antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins. These compounds help protect our cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic illness and immune dysfunction. In short, elderberry is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to long-term vitality!
My Favorite Ways to Use Elderberry
The most well-known preparation is probably elderberry syrup, and for good reason. It’s simple, tasty, and easy to use—especially with kids. But elderberry is incredibly versatile. Here are a few of my favorite elderberry recipes.
Elderberry Syrup https://youtu.be/oevg8GcJl48
Elderberry Spiced Galette - https://theherbalacademy.com/blog/elderberry-spice-galette-recipe/ made with my favorite sourdough pie crust - https://youtu.be/095gfLMYG3c
Elderberry Gummies - https://theherbalacademy.com/blog/elderberry-gummies/
Elderberry Cough Syrup - https://theherbalacademy.com/blog/herbal-cough-syrup/
I’d Love to Hear from You!
Have you made your own elderberry remedies before? Do you have a family recipe or a favorite way to use this beautiful berry? Leave a comment below or join the conversation over on YouTube.
Let’s keep sharing what works, what doesn’t, and all the small, meaningful ways we bring the old skills into modern life.
Thanks for being here. May your shelves be stocked, your season be steady, and your medicine simple.
God Bless,
Cora Bowe
Founder of A Pinch of Patience
Resources:
https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/elderberry-recipes.html
Requisite Herbal Medicine Disclaimer - I am not a doctor and this is not intended to be medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before taking a new herb especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medication.
