This recipe is delicious and easily passed the taste test of my two little boys. By cooking it longer, you can reduce it even more and end up with a thick paste. Rich in antioxidants, this Elixir is also a useful antiviral. It is a wonderful combination to add to your health regimen for the winter!

Recipe:

• 2 cups fresh elderberries or 1 cup dried elderberries

• 1 cup blueberries or huckleberries

• 2 tablespoons water (if using dried elderberries, use 1 cup water)

• 1 tablespoon fresh grated ginger

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 3 cloves

• 2 tablespoons raw honey (Caution: Do not use honey for children under 1 year of age. Rice syrup or maple syrup may be substituted.)

Directions:

• Simmer berries, water, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves on the stove until the berries have softened and the skins have opened (about 2 hours).

• Strain the mixture through a strainer, making sure to get all of the pulp (it should be kind of thick).

• Mix in 2 tablespoons of honey and stir well.

• Store in the refrigerator.

How to Use It:

• For adults, 1 tablespoon a day of this delectable treat will give you a powerful dose of antioxidants as well as being a useful antiviral-a wonderful combination for the coming winter!

• For children, use 1 teaspoon a day.

© Elaine Sheff, Clinical Herbalist, RH (AHG)