Question 1

What are Elderberries?

Accepted Answer

Black Elderberry (Sambucus Nigra) is a tiny purple berry packed with antioxidants (specifically a type known as anthocyanins) that are known to support a healthy immune system.  Beautiful white flowers precede the berries in bloom.  Elderflowers also contain antioxidants and immunomodulating properties.

Question 2

What is the difference between elderberry syrup and elderberry drops?

Accepted Answer

Elderberry Syrup is a hand-crafted syrup sweetened with local honey and made with both Elderberry and Elderflower, for synergistic, all-natural support for the whole family.  Our elderberry syrup contains a powerful blend of ingredients including rosehips, hibiscus, and ginger for an incredible depth of flavor and ultimate nourishment.Elderberry Drops are an Elderberry tincture made with glycerin. Elderberry Drops do not require refrigeration, so they are perfect for throwing in your bag and taking them on-the-go. At one- and two-ounce sizes, they can even get through TSA. Elderberry Drops contain zero added sweeteners but have a naturally sweet flavor that kids and adults both enjoy!Elderberry Drops are more concentrated, and Elderberry Syrup has a more complex flavor. We recommend you try both and experience the difference firsthand. Personally, we like to keep a bottle of syrup in the fridge at home and a bottle of drops in our backpack/purse for on-the-go.

Question 3

What are the differences between elderberry and elderflower?

Accepted Answer

Elderberry trees bloom with elderflowers first, then fruit with elderberries. Both Elderberries and Elderflowers contain antioxidants and compounds that may support immune response.  The berries are specifically concentrated in anthocyanins that are known to help strengthen cell walls against pathogens.  Elderflowers are rich in antioxidants, and act as a gentle diaphoretic herb.

Question 4

What is a Fire Cider tonic?

Accepted Answer

Fire Cider is a powerful, herbal infused Raw Apple Cider Vinegar and honey Tonic, that can be enjoyed as a "power shot" or incorporated into beverages or dishes. Rooted in folk herbalism, Fire Cider is a spicy, tangy vinegar-based tonic made by infusing Raw Apple Cider Vinegar with stimulating roots, fruits, and herbs and lightly sweetened with honey or maple syrup. Fire Ciders may assist in helping stimulate and move stuck conditions such as indigestion, inflammation, and congestion. Fire Cider may be enjoyed daily, or as needed.  In the event of a wellness challenge, we prefer to have a Fire Shot every 2-3 hours, for a couple of days.

Question 5

What are Shrubs?

Accepted Answer

Shrubs are an old-fashioned, tart, tangy, and lightly sweet sipping vinegar.  Our shrubs are crafted with Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, and lightly sweetened with Organic Cane sugar, for a vegan and honey-free option.  Add a shot of Shrub into your favorite sparkling water, for an instant Probiotic + Natural Electrolyte beverage. We think of it as Kombucha meets Gatorade, with an elderberry twist!

Question 6

What is Oxymel?

Accepted Answer

An Oxymel is an herbal elixir comprised of acid ("oxy") and honey ("mel"). Apple cider vinegar and honey have been used for ages to support immune function, soothe achy throats, and aid healthy digestion. Our Elderberry-Turmeric Oxymel harnesses the benefits of Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar, infused with nourishing herbs and sweetened with local Raw Honey. Tart and tangy and delicious, enjoy by the spoonful or add to water for a pre/probiotic + mineral and herbal enhanced functional mocktail.   For an Elderberry-Turmeric Spritz add 1 Tbsp per 6 to 8 ounces of sparkling water. For an Elderberry Turmeric "Not-Toddy" add 1 Tbsp to 6 to 8 ounces of warm water.

Question 7

How do I take the syrup / oxymel / shrub / fire cider?

Accepted Answer

While syrup, oxymel, shrub and fire cider are different products, what they have in common is that they are Food as Medicine, and can be taken daily. Here are some ways that our customers love to work with our products:Elderberry Syrup - taken by the spoonful each day, like a vitamin, or drizzled on yogurt bowls or into smoothiesElderberry Drops - taken on-the-go, especially while travelingOxymel - mixed into hot water like a teaShrub - mixed into still or sparkling water like an electrolyte drink or mocktailFire Cider - taken as a "power shot" daily, or several times daily when feeling under the weather Loose Leaf Tea - made into hot or iced tea for nourishment and hydrationThese are just suggestions; you can get creative and work with these herbal goodies any way you like!

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