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Glass mug of hot elderberry tea sweetened with raw honey, an herbal tea known for its immune-boosting properties, with cinnamon sticks on the side.
Stephanie

Elderberry Tea (Herbal Tea with Immune-Boosting Benefits)

Elderberry tea is more than just a cozy, tart-flavored drink—it’s a time-honored herbal tea that has been used for centuries for its powerful health benefits. Made from the berries of the elder tree (Sambucus nigra), this simple tea is one of the best ways to support a healthy immune system, especially during flu season.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 heaping teaspoons dried elderberries
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cinnamon stick optional, for extra flavor
  • 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
  • Honey or your favorite sweetener optional

Method
 

  1. Add dried elderberries, grated ginger, water, and a cinnamon stick (optional) to a sauce pan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes. (This will give you the full benefits of the elderberry.)
  2. Strain the tea into a mug.
  3. Sweeten with honey, maple syrup, or elderberry syrup.

Notes

Tips for the Best Elderberry Tea

  • Always use ripe or dried berries: Raw or unripe elderberries can cause stomach upset. Stick with dried berries or ripe fresh berries.
  • Shorter vs. longer steeping time: A shorter steep gives a lighter flavor, while a longer simmer draws out more elderberry tea benefits and a deeper dark purple color.
  • Boost with spices: Add a cinnamon stick, fresh ginger, or cloves for extra flavor and soothing benefits during flu season.
  • Sweeten naturally: Stir in your favorite sweetener—honey, maple syrup, or even a spoonful of elderberry syrup—for added flavor.
  • Blend with other herbs: Elderflower teas, peppermint, or hibiscus make great tea blends with elderberries.
  • Make ahead: Brew a larger batch, store in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat a cup of elderberry tea as needed.
  • Try it cold over ice in the summer for a refreshing tart taste.
  • Pair with other remedies: Enjoy alongside fermented garlic honey or raw apple cider vinegar for an immune-boosting routine.