Elderberry gummies are easy to make at home — the first step is making elderberry syrup. The elderberry is a flowering plant whose berries and flowers have been used medicinally for centuries. They contain a natural antiviral compound called elderflower, which helps with respiratory infections, improves immunity, and strengthens the immune system.
Why Elderberry Gummies
Elderberry gummies are sweet and delicious, making them a great way to get kids to take elderberry. Elderberries are thought to be a strong antioxidant and immunity booster, and a safe, natural way to help ward off colds and the flu.
Elderberry Nutrition (per oz / 28g)
- 20 calories
- 5.2g carbs, 0.1g fat
- 17% RDA Vitamin C
- 3% RDA Vitamin A & B
- 2% RDA potassium & iron
Benefits
- Natural remedy for colds & flu
- May reduce severity & duration of symptoms
- Helps loosen congestion & coughing
- May protect against rhinovirus, influenza A & HMPV
Want the deeper dive on elderberry's immune benefits? Read Elderberry Benefits.
Elderberry Syrup & Gummies
Elderberry Syrup
- 1 cup dried organic elderberries, non-irradiated
- 4 cups water
- 1–2 dashes of cinnamon
- 1 inch ginger, chopped
- ½ small lemon, fresh squeezed
- ¾–1 cup raw honey
Elderberry Gummies
- 1 cup elderberry syrup, divided
- ¼ cup gelatin
- ⅔ cup hot water (not boiling)
Simmer the Elderberries
In a medium saucepan, add the elderberries, water, cinnamon, and ginger. Boil for about 1 minute, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
Cool & Sweeten
Pour the mixture into a glass bowl and let it cool to room temperature. Once cool, add the lemon juice and honey and whisk thoroughly. Store any extra syrup in a glass jug in the fridge for up to 2 months.
Mix the Gelatin
In a small bowl, whisk ¼ cup of the cooled syrup with the gelatin until dissolved, then stir in the hot water until fully combined, followed by the remaining syrup.
Set the Gummies
Pour into molds (a mini baster or dropper works well), then chill in the fridge for about 1 hour until firm. Pop out and store in a glass airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 months.
Storage Tips
- Keep gummies in a closed container in the fridge
- A little extra lemon juice helps prevent mold
- Raw honey can be substituted with sugar
- A paper towel under the lid helps absorb moisture
Dosage
- 1–3 gummies a day for kids 2 and over
- Depends on the size of the mold used
- Always check with your pediatrician first
Does Elderberry Actually Work?
A few studies suggest it can help:
- A study published in Nutrients found that travelers who took elderberry syrup tended to have less severe and shorter colds than those who didn't. (source)
- A study in the Journal of Internal Medicine Research found that starting elderberry extract at the first sign of flu symptoms led to symptoms clearing about four days earlier than placebo. (source)
- A study in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found elderberry may help reduce upper respiratory symptoms during a cold or flu. (source)
Research (source) suggests elderberry may help defend against viruses in three ways:
Stimulates the immune system
Interferes with viral cell entry
Inhibits viral replication
Make The Syrup First
Since these gummies start with elderberry syrup, here's where to begin — plus the full immune-benefits breakdown:
Key Takeaway
- Elderberry gummies start with a simple homemade elderberry syrup.
- Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C, and may help support the immune system.
- Research suggests elderberry may shorten the duration and severity of cold & flu symptoms.
- Consuming elderberry when you're sick may help speed up recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Although I am a pharmacist, the content in this blog post is for informational purposes only. I can't be held responsible for your results & choices. I encourage you to do your due diligence on the possible health benefits/side effects of this Elderberry Syrup Gummies recipe before making or using it.