I’m a big fan of using elderberries to keep my family healthy during the winter. My kids love their elderberry gummies and syrup, but sometimes it’s nice to have something extra soothing for sore throats. These elderberry popsicles not only boost immunity but also soothe a sore throat while tasting great. Plus, I finally have a good use for my stainless steel popsicle molds in the winter!
Elderberry is a popular remedy for a reason. Its antiviral properties have been shown to prevent the flu better than a flu shot. In one study, people who took elderberry recovered in half the time compared to those who took a placebo. Almost 90% of the elderberry group were completely cured within 2-3 days, while the placebo group took at least 6 days.
If you go to the doctor for Tamiflu (which I personally wouldn’t do!), it only reduces symptoms by an average of just one day. Even worse, it often affects children more adversely than adults. Some people using Tamiflu have experienced rare side effects like sudden confusion, delirium, hallucinations, unusual behavior, or self-injury, especially in children.
With no side effects and a sweet, kid-friendly taste, elderberry is the clear winner! You can learn more about elderberry and get more ideas to avoid and beat winter sickness.
The next ingredient in these elderberry popsicles is antioxidant-rich blueberries. They add a more intense berry flavor and are high in vitamins C and K, as well as manganese. Vitamin C helps fight colds and flu and protects the lungs during illness. These antioxidants help reduce the severity of coughs and prevent sickness from turning into pneumonia.
I use raw honey as the sweetener for these popsicles. Unlike refined sugar, raw honey has many benefits. It’s antibacterial and often used to soothe sore throats. If you’re making these popsicles for a child under 1 year old, omit the honey or substitute it with maple syrup, and supervise them while eating.
I’ve also added grass-fed gelatin to this recipe. Since there’s not much fat or sugar in these popsicles, the gelatin helps keep them from becoming rock-hard ice bricks. Gelatin not only gives them a popsicle consistency but is also great for hair, nails, skin, and joints.
Instead of just using elderberry-infused water, I’ve included coconut water. Its sweet taste is a hit with kids, and it’s a great source of electrolytes. During sickness, especially if there’s been vomiting, it’s important to replace electrolytes. Just make sure to use a brand that’s minimally processed and doesn’t have added sugar.
A hint of fresh lemon juice finishes up this elderberry popsicle recipe. The acidity from the lemon balances out the sweet flavors. Lemon is full of natural vitamin C, which boosts wellness and glutathione production, the body’s master antioxidant. Since our bodies can’t produce vitamin C, it’s important to get it from food, especially during illness. Vitamin C is highly concentrated in immune cells and is quickly consumed during an infection.
