Herbs For the Family...

Using herbal remedies for my family is a topic that has intrigued me for quite some time.

I've decided to dip my toe in the waters of herbs by making a simple Elder berry cough syrup. I found the recipe at The Family Homestead (though have found several variations on different sites.)

1 cup of dried elder berries
3 cups of water
1 1/2 cups of honey
Brandy (totally optional)

Put the berries and water into a pot and bring it to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 1 hour. Strain with fin mesh strainer or fabric. Stir in the honey and 1 tablespoon of brandy (optional but will help with preservation.) until they have dissolved. Let cool and then pour into a bottle or canning jar. Store in the fridge.

I'm planning on using 1 tsp for my children and 1 tablespoon for the adults.



I'm slowly collecting medicinal herbs and teas for my family and am so thrilled with this new path in our journey for natural, self sufficient living.