Easy Homemade Elderberry Syrup Recipe in the Instant Pot

Jump to Recipe

As flu season approaches, many individuals are seeking natural remedies to boost their immune systems. Elderberry syrup has gained significant popularity but can be expensive when purchased from the health food store. Making your own delicious syrup at home is easier than you think! Here, I will show you a step-by-step guide to making your own homemade elderberry syrup in the instant pot.

*This site may contain links to affiliate websites. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, at no extra cost to you, in order to help you make the best choice. Thank you for supporting us so we can continue doing what we love!

Why Elderberry Syrup?

Elderberries have long been recognized for their medicinal properties and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Elderberry syrup is rich in vitamins A, B, and C, as well as antioxidants and flavonoids. When combined with herbs such as cinnamon, clove, star of anise, ginger, and raw honey, elderberry syrup becomes a potent remedy for cold and flu symptoms.

These nutrients provide immune support, making you more resilient to viruses and bacteria. Regular consumption of elderberry syrup can help prevent and reduce the severity and duration of flu and cold symptoms, allowing you to recover more quickly.

The Benefits of Elderberry

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) contains potent antiviral properties that can help inhibit the replication of viruses, including those responsible for the flu and the common cold. Studies have shown that elderberry extract can effectively prevent the flu virus from entering host cells, reducing the risk of infection.

Additionally, elderberry syrup has been found to stimulate the production of cytokines, which are essential for regulating immune responses. Elderberry syrup becomes a valuable ally during the flu and cold season by enhancing the immune system’s ability to fight off infections.

Supporting Herbs

Various supporting herbs are often added to elderberry syrup to enhance its effectiveness. These include clove, orange peel, ginger, star anise, cardamom, and honey.

Each herb has unique health benefits. All of the herbs included in this recipe are antibacterial and antiviral. They are also warming, which can help if you have chills and/ or body aches. Orange peel is rich in vitamin C and supports digestion, while honey soothes sore throats and acts as a natural cough suppressant.

Combined with dried or fresh elderberry, these ingredients create a potent concoction that provides comprehensive support during the flu and cold season.

Making Your Own Elderberry Syrup at Home

Numerous brands now offer elderberry syrup products making more accessible to a wide range of consumers. However, it comes at a price! Most organic elderberry syrup will cost 20-30 dollars for a small bottle, which adds up quickly. It is more affordable to make it yourself, and with our Instant Pot recipe, it takes only minutes!

Where to buy your herbs

We prefer to purchase all of our organic herbs from Mountain Rose Herbs but you can also purchase from Amazon (linked below)!

Here is the list of herbs you will need:

• Dried Organic Elderberries
• Ground Clove (or Whole Cloves)
• Cardamom Pods
• Cinnamon Stick
• Dried Ginger (or Fresh Ginger)
• Orange Peel
• Star Anise
• Raw Local Honey

Equipment you will need:

• Instant Pot Pressure Cooker
• Fine Mesh Sieve
• 4 cup Pyrex Measuring Cup
• Measuring Spoons (I love these magnetic spoons!)
• Glass Jar

How to Make Elderberry Syrup in the Instant Pot

Ingredients

• 3 cups Filtered Water
• 3/4 cup Dried Elderberries
• 1/2 tsp Ground Clove (1 Tbsp Whole Clove)
• 5 Cardamom Pods
• 2 Sticks Cinnamon
• 1 tsp Dried Ginger (1 inch peeled fresh ginger)
• 1 tsp Orange Peel
• 2 Star Anise Pods
• 1 cup Raw Honey

*Ground or fresh spices can be substituted for any whole herbs

Preparations

1. Add 2 cups of water and all herbs to the InstaPot.

2. Set the Instant Pot to MANUAL for 10 minutes.

3. Vent immediately or release naturally for an additional 10 minutes.

4. Mash the berries and then strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer. Using the back of a spoon, push through any excess liquid.

5. Add 1 cup of cold water (and ice if needed) to cool off elderberry liquid. Do not add honey until liquid below 98 degrees.

6. Add honey and stir.

Storage

Store in an airtight glass jar container in the fridge. It will store up to a month or longer.

How to use:

• Adults: 1 Tbsp daily
• Children over 1 year old*: 1 tsp daily

*VERY IMPORTANT: Do NOT give to infants under 1 year of age!

You can do 2-3 doses if you have cold or flu symptoms

I like to make hot tea with my homemade elderberry syrup by adding 1-2 tablespoons to warm water. Some people like to add a small amount of lemon juice too!

For kids over one-year-old, you must check out our elderberry gummies recipe! My kid will eat them all in one sitting if I let him. Elderberry gummies are also a great source of essential amino acids and support a healthy gut!

Conclusion

Elderberry syrup has proven valuable in strengthening the immune system and combating flu and cold symptoms during the winter months. Its natural antiviral properties and the added benefits of supporting herbs make it a go-to remedy for individuals seeking a natural and effective solution.

As the flu and cold season approaches, consider incorporating elderberry syrup into your daily routine to boost your immune system and stay healthy. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements or remedies, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Stay proactive in protecting your health, and let the power of elderberry syrup support you through the flu and cold season. 

Don’t forget to check out our elderberry gummies recipe HERE!

Pin for later!

Other articles you may like:

Savory Beet Greens with Pancetta

Protecting Babies from EMF Exposure