1. Combine elderberries, water, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 15 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture — collect the liquid, discard the solids.
4. Let cool until lukewarm; preferably do not stir honey into hot liquid.
5. Stir in honey and lemon juice.
6. Pour into a glass jar or bottle, store in the refrigerator (lasts 1-2 weeks).
7. Use: for example, 1 tablespoon in warm water or tea.

Elderberries (Sambucus nigra) naturally contain anthocyanins, which give the syrup its deep colour. Ginger adds a kick. Honey and lemon make the drink sweet and fresh. No health claims are authorised for elderberry. Note: always use elderberries heated, never raw.

Tips & variations

• For families: put in a nice bottle with a handwritten label
• For children aged 1 and over: a teaspoon in warm water
• NOT for children under 1 year (raw honey)