Discover the Medicinal Magic of Elderberries and Celebrate Harvest Season at BLeaves Farms

It’s an exciting time here at Bleaves Farms because it’s elderberry season! These vibrant, nutrient-packed berries are ready for harvest, and we’re thrilled to share the incredible benefits and joys of elderberries with you. They can be made into elderberry syrup, elderberry wine, elderberry mix kits and more, but this article will focus on creating elderberry mix kits, so you can make your own medicinal elderberry syrup throughout the season.

Blue elderberries (Sambucus cerulea) are native to North America and thrive particularly well in the Western USA. From the mountainous regions of California to the arid landscapes of Arizona, these resilient plants flourish in diverse climates and soil types. The result is a plentiful supply of elderberries ripe for the picking during their peak season, which at BLeaves Farms, is late May and early June.

On our farm, our trees are fertilized by our horses, flood irrigated with nutritious snow melt, and the berries are lovingly picked and destemmed by hand. Our citrus is also home grown, with sweet Meyer Lemon and Arizona Sweet Oranges adding a vitamin rich, tangy complimentary flavor to our recipe.

Please note, elderberries, along with their stems, leaves, and bark, contain compounds that can produce cyanide when ingested raw, making them toxic. To ensure safety, elderberries must be specially prepared by cooking or drying, which neutralizes these harmful substances. It’s the properly cooked and extracted juices that you will be consuming that contain the health benefits.

Medicinal Benefits of Elderberries

Both blue and black elderberries are not only a delight for the senses but also a powerhouse of health benefits. Here’s why incorporating elderberries into your diet can be a game-changer:

• Immune System Support: Elderberries are rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which help strengthen the immune system and fight off infections. They are especially renowned for their ability to alleviate cold and flu symptoms.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: The anti-inflammatory compounds in elderberries can help reduce inflammation and pain in the body, making them beneficial for conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.
• Rich in Nutrients: Elderberries are packed with vitamins A, B, and C, as well as potassium and dietary fiber, which contribute to overall health and well-being.
• Antiviral Effects: Research suggests that elderberries have antiviral properties that can help inhibit the replication of viruses, making them effective in shortening the duration of illnesses like the flu.
• Heart Health: The high levels of anthocyanins in elderberries can improve cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels and enhancing blood vessel function.

Harvesting Elderberries

Harvesting elderberries is a rewarding experience that connects us directly to nature. Here’s how you can do it:

• Identify the Right Berries: Look for clusters of deep blue to black elderberries. Make sure they are fully ripe, as unripe berries can be toxic.
• Use Clean Tools: Use clean scissors or pruning shears to cut the berry clusters from the bush. Handle them gently to avoid crushing the berries.
• Remove Stems: Once you’ve harvested the berries, remove them from their stems. A fork or comb can be a handy tool for this process—just rake the berries off the stems. Pulling them off with your fingers will work as well. Be aware, this is a time consuming, yet Zen and worthwhile process.
• Wash and Dry: Rinse the berries thoroughly under cool water and spread them out to dry on a clean towel or paper towels.

Making Your Own Elderberry Mix Kits

Creating elderberry mix kits is a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of elderberries all year round. By dehydrating and combining ingredients, the kit will sit in your pantry waiting to be made into elderberry syrup whenever the need arises. Here’s a simple guide to making your own mix kit:

Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup dried elderberries
• 2 slices of dehydrated ginger
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 segments (quarter of a slice) of dehydrated orange
• 2 segments (quarter of a slice) of dehydrated lemon
• 5 cloves

Instructions:

• Dehydrate the Berries: If you’ve harvested fresh elderberries, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and dry them in the oven at a low temperature (about 135°F) until they are fully dried. Or better yet, use a dehydrator and dry at 135°F for about 12 hours.
• Mix Ingredients: Using snack sized Ziplock baggies, combine each of the ingredients listed above, in the quantities listed above, into one bag. Repeat to make as many mix kits as desired.
• Store: Label each elderberry mix kit with the date and contents and use within the year.

How to Prepare Your Elderberry Mix Kit on the Stovetop or in the Instant Pot

To make 1 pint of delicious and healthful elderberry syrup using your mix kit, follow the instructions below:

Stovetop:

• Boil 3 cups of water in a pot.
• Add contents of the mix kit to boiling water.
• Lower heat and simmer with the lid on for 45 minutes.
• Turn off heat and allow to steep, with the lid on, until fully cooled to room temperature.
• Strain the liquid (mash the liquid out of the berries and then discard or compost the solid berry mix).
• Add 1/4^th cup honey to the liquid and stir.
• Pour the liquid into a sterilized mason jar or other container and refrigerate.

Instant Pot:

• Add 3 cups of water to the Instant Pot.
• Add contents of the mix kit to the Instant Pot.
• Close and cook for 10 minutes.
• Release pressure and strain the liquid.
• Cool to room temperature.
• Add 1/4^th cup of honey to the liquid and stir (discard or compost the solid berry mix)
• Pour the liquid into a sterilized mason jar or other container and refrigerate.

Dose: Up to 2 tablespoons a day. But let’s be honest, we drink more than that because it tastes so delightful.

Don’t Have Time to Make Your Own? We’ve Got You Covered!

If you prefer the convenience of ready-made kits, Bleaves Farms offers handcrafted elderberry mix kits, made with love and care from our very own harvest. It’s on a first come first serve basis while supplies last. Our kits include all the essential ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions to help you create your own elderberry syrup at home. Perfect for boosting your immune system and adding a delicious touch to your wellness routine.

You can purchase our elderberry mix kits directly from our website and have it shipped to your home, or visit us at BLeaves Farms. You can also order kits from other farms. We’re here to support your journey towards a healthier, more natural lifestyle.

Happy harvesting and here’s to good health and simple pleasures!