Herbal Concoction

We have been sick for over 2 weeks now. It's time to whip up a batch of herbal syrup. It's pretty easy and by no means am I saying it will cure anyone, but it can only help. And it tastes really good too! 

Here's the recipe, we used 1/4 cup of each unless otherwise stated:

• oregon grape root (I used 1/2 cup)
• olive leaf 
• elecampane
• yerba santa
• elderberries (I used 1/2 cup)
• 3 tbs. vodka (grain free/optional)

Boil 6 cups filtered water.  Add oregon grape root and boil on a simmer for 15 minutes. I used powder for this batch, but just make sure yours is chopped up to get to the good yellow stuff under the bark.

Next, add the rest of the herbs and turn down to low. Let sit for 30 minutes or until liquid is reduced by half. 

Then, strain out your mixture into a bottle. Add 2-3 drops of stevia for every 8 ounces of syrup you have. Sake. You can add honey or maple syrup if you like, but it will last longer if you use stevia. Add vodka to preserve. But I didn't add any vodka and mine is still good after 3 weeks. If oyu don't add vodka, make sure to check for mild, etc. before using. But the herbs may fight off bacterial growth. Store in fridge for up to 3 weeks. Our family took a tablespoonful every day and it seems like they're beginning to kick their colds and feel better.