Use Elderberry Instead

Here's a good post on using elderberry to stay healthy so we're not susceptible to the flu.

With all the interest about the H1 N1 (swine) flu this year, it is more important than ever to do all we can to naturally strengthen our immune systems before this flu season hits. An ideal herb for the job, Elderberry has been revered throughout much of the world for more than a thousand years for boosting immune health to support prevention of colds and viruses, as well as helping the body fight the flu once it has struck.

Lots of great elderberry info on this beautiful ning (someone needs to teach me about nings).

I'm trying the syrup recipe from here this year (should I get enough berries):

Use 2 ounces of elderberries to 1 quart of water. If you like, you can also add some rosehips for extra vitamin C.

Heat mixture and let simmer down to a pint.

Strain herbs and return liquid to pot.

To each pint of liquid, add 1 cup organic honey. This sweetens the syrup and acts as a preservative. Gently heat the honey and elderberries together in the pan.

Remove from heat and bottle.

Brandy can be added as a cough relaxant to adult syrups.

For flavoring, try adding a pinch of cinnamon and a few drops of vanilla!

The syrup will last weeks or even months in the refrigerator.

Take a spoonful daily or every other day to prevent colds and flu. It can also be taken for symptoms during illness.