Elderberry tea is a delicious berry-infused tea made with dried elderberries, cinnamon, turmeric, and raw honey. This tea is perfect when your immune system needs a boost or when you have a sore throat.
Though I make elderberry syrup every Autumn in my home, I also like to keep the dried berries on hand to make elderberry tea.
Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C and have been used in folk medicine to help combat sickness during the flu season. Elderberries are great in herbal teas and syrups, and this easy elderberry tea is a great introduction to using them to create your own herbal tea.
How To Make Elderberry Tea
For this recipe, you will need water, dried elderberries, ground cinnamon, ground turmeric, and honey.
Boil two cups of water in a kettle or in a small saucepan. Add the elderberries and spices into a tea diffuser and place in a large mug. Pour the hot water over the elderberry tea and allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes or until the tea turns a dark purple color. Once the tea has steeped, remove the tea infuser from the mug and sweeten the tea with honey or preferred sweetener. Once the drink has cooled to your liking, you can sip on the herbal tea.
Elderberry tea has a tart taste and tastes its best when sweetened. Drink this tea as needed or when you have cold or flu symptoms. This recipe makes a large cup of elderberry tea.
Substitutes
- Cinnamon: You may use a cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon to make this tea. If using cinnamon sticks, make sure to remove the sticks once the berries are done steeping.
- ​Dried Elderberries: You may use fresh or dried elderberries to make this tea. I have dried elderberries on hand all year long, so that’s what I use. Elderberry powder may also be used in place of dried elderberries.
- Tea Infuser:Â You may use a small mesh strainer instead of a tea infuser if you don’t have one available. Another option would be to use empty tea bags. Simply fill the tea bag with the dried elderberries and spices and steep as instructed.Â
- Turmeric: While turmeric is my favorite spice for this recipe, ginger is an excellent substitute with anti-inflammatory properties.
FAQ
What are elderberry tea benefits?
​Elderberry tea is known for its potential immune-boosting properties. It is rich in antioxidants and may help reduce the duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. Additionally, elderberry tea is believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
Can I make elderberry tea with fresh berries?
​Yes, you can make elderberry tea using fresh elderberries. However, make sure to remove the stems and seeds, as they can be toxic. You can also use dried elderberries, which are more readily available and convenient for most people.
Are there any side effects or precautions when consuming elderberry tea?
​While elderberry tea is generally safe, it’s essential not to drink too much. Excessive consumption of raw elderberries, primarily the stems and leaves, can be toxic. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with certain medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before adding elderberry tea to their diet.
Can I make elderberry tea from elderberry syrup or extract?
​Yes, you can make elderberry tea using elderberry syrup or extract. Simply add a teaspoon of elderberry syrup or a few drops of elderberry extract to hot water and stir. Adjust the amount to your taste.
Can I store leftover elderberry tea?
​Yes, you can store leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat it when you’re ready to drink, but do not keep it for an extended period, as it may lose its flavor.
Are there any variations or additions to elderberry tea I can try?
​Yes, you can customize your tea by adding other herbs or spices like ginger, cinnamon, or cloves for extra flavor and health benefits. Lemon or orange zest can also provide a citrusy twist. Also, trie served this as iced tea. Simply cool the tea and serve over ice.
Where can I purchase elderberries or elderberry products?
​You can find dried elderberries, elderberry syrup, and elderberry extract at health food stores, some grocery stores, or online retailers. Ensure you source your elderberry products from reputable suppliers.
Related Recipes:
PrintEasy Elderberry Tea Recipe
This elderberry tea is the perfect herbal tea to have on hand during the cold season. Made with immune-boosting ingredients like dried elderberries, turmeric, cinnamon, and raw honey, this tasty tea is a great way to get your dose of elderberry!
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 12 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons dried elderberries
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- honey
Instructions
- Warm the water in a tea kettle or in a small pan on the stovetop. Bring the water to a simmer and turn off the heat.
- Add the dried elderberries and spices to a tea infuser and pour the hot water over the herbal tea. Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes or until the tea turns dark purple.
- Add honey to taste and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Facts
- Serving Size: 2 cups
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 15g
