Elderberry tea is a warming, calming beverage that fights off the flu and the common cold. These dark purple berries from the Sambucus tree are packed with nutrients that support the immune system.
I'm sure you have heard about elderberry, the immune-boosting fruit that's commonly used in over-the-counter cold and flu remedies, like lozenges, syrups, and capsules. However, many of these products contain added sugars, thickeners, and other ingredients that you may not want when you're feeling unwell. That's why I have come up with a simple and healthy solution - elderberry tea!
With just three ingredients, this tea is easy to make and allows you to enjoy all the benefits of elderberry straight from the source. So, give it a try and give your immune system a natural boost!
Health Benefits of Elderberries
I have learned about the incredible benefits of elderberries. This fruit has been known for centuries to boost the immune system and help fight off colds and respiratory infections. Elderberries are packed with antioxidants, flavonoids, vitamin A, vitamin C, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritional powerhouse. Plus, the anthocyanin found in elderberries, which gives them their deep purple color, helps to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
With all these benefits, it's no wonder that elderberry tea has become a popular way to enjoy these powerful berries in a simple and healthy way.
3-Ingredient Elderberry Tea
This recipe only calls for three ingredients: dried elderberries, water , and a cinnamon stick. But you can also play around with it and change it!
How to Customize Your Tea
I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create my own unique version of elderberry tea. Sometimes I like to add ginger, turmeric, lemon, or orange slices to give it a spicier or fruitier taste. And if I am in the mood for more antioxidants, I will swap some of the water with unsweetened cherry juice. Increasing the cinnamon can also help regulate my blood sugar levels.
Occasionally, I add some dried hibiscus flowers to the tea, which not only deepens the color but may also help lower my blood pressure. For those who prefer their tea sweet, a touch of raw honey or maple syrup can be added.
How to Make Elderberry Tea
Whenever I feel like my immune system could use a boost, I make this simple tea in just a few minutes.
- First, I combine water, dried elderberries, and a cinnamon stick in a small saucepan and give it a good stir.
- Then, I turn the heat to high and wait for the tea to start boiling. Once it starts boiling, I turn the heat down to medium-low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- After that, I let the tea cool in the pot for 5 minutes before I strain it through a fine-mesh strainer into a mug.
- It's so easy and convenient to make this tea whenever I need it.
- Plus, it's a great way to enjoy the health benefits of elderberries without all the added sugar and artificial ingredients that come with store-bought remedies.
FAQ’s
Can I add other ingredients to the tea?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding other natural ingredients like ginger or honey to enhance the flavor and health benefits.
Can I drink this tea if I'm not feeling sick?
Definitely! Elderberry tea can be enjoyed anytime as a natural immune booster and overall health tonic.
Can I drink elderberry tea every day?
While elderberry tea is generally considered safe, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider before making it a daily habit, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking any medications.
Conclusion
Drinking elderberry tea is a quick and easy approach to strengthen your immune system and get a variety of health advantages. You may prepare this tea at home with only a few ingredients and savor its light and fruity flavor. Try experimenting with various herbs and spices to customize it to your tastes.
EASY ELDERBERRY TEA
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons dried elderberries
- 1 cinnamon stick
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a small pot. You'll notice the berries instantly start releasing their color.
- Heat the pot over high heat. When the tea just starts to boil, turn the heat down to low and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Once the tea is finished simmering, turn off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh strainer into a glass and enjoy!
LISA’S TIPS
- This is the brand of organic dried elderberries I buy. And it’s usually enough to last the entire cold and flu season!
- The elderberry tea gets deeper and darker in color the longer you boil it.
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