“Merry and Bright” Medicinal Syrup Recipe

The transition of seasons often brings a time of change within our own bodies as well. Many people see this as an increase in environmental allergies, others see it as a change in mood, but most often people notice this is the time for viral infections like the flu. Historically, humans have used different herbs to assist their vitality during these times of transition. We see remnants of this with blends like “pumpkin spice,” which contain medicinal spices assisting in warming the body, promoting circulation, and even providing antimicrobial activity. A perfect reason to start your holiday baking a little early.

A new favorite recipe of mine is for an herbal syrup that you can easily make at home and keep in the fridge throughout the colder seasons. It was named “Merry and Bright,” not just for the time of year it is useful for, but also because the fresh, fruity, and pungent flavors make you feel quite merry and bright. Not only is this syrup delightfully tasting, but it is safe for children as well as people who are pregnant or lactating. I encourage you to make this blend and use it both as a medicine on its own but substituting it for sweeteners you may use in your daily life.

Merry and Bright Medicinal Syrup:

Ingredients: 6 cups of water (distilled or RO is preferred), 2 cups of dried elderberries (Sambucus nigra berries), 2-inch piece of fresh ginger (Zingiber officinalis rhizome), ½ cup of rosehips (Rosa canina fruit), ¼ cup of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare seeds), 1 tsp of clove (Syzygium aromaticum buds), 1 tsp of cardamom—I used black cardamom, but green cardamom is great too (Amomum sublatum or Elettaria cardamomum seeds), and 3 cups of raw honey (if you are making this for a child under 2 y/o you can substitute the honey for organic cane sugar). Optional: 1 cup of brandy, vodka, or gin to extend shelf-life

Directions: Combine all herbs and water in a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer covered for 45 minutes to 1 hour (this method of preparation is called a decoction). For a stronger extraction, allow the herbs to steep for an additional hour. Strain using a mesh strainer, making sure to express all liquid from the herbs, then discard the spent herbs. Return the decoction to the pot, bring it to a low heat, add the honey, and stir until fully incorporated. Remove from the heat (if adding alcohol combine at this time) and bottle.

Your final product can last around 6-8 months refrigerated without alcohol. Typically I take 1 tbsp per day for general support, but if I notice I am starting to feel sick I will take 1 tbsp 5 times per day up to every hour.

Herbal Actions:

–        Elderberry: antioxidant and antiviral

–        Ginger: warming, circulatory stimulant, inflammation modulator, diaphoretic (increases sweating during a fever), and decongestant

–        Rosehips: antibacterial, inflammation modulator, and antioxidant

–        Fennel: warming, antimicrobial, and relaxing expectorant

–        Black Cardamom: antimicrobial, inflammation modulator, and antioxidant

For more questions about the above formula or other beneficial herbs to use this season, schedule a visit with me; I am always ready to chat about herbs.

Keep on supporting sustainability,

Dr. DeCarolis