Well, it’s official folks. We’ve approached the time of year when the gloomy clouds outside aren’t the only ones feeling under the weather. “Sniffle season” has been rearing its particularly unpleasant head around the Pacific Northwest this year, and it’s beginning to feel a bit like a game of “last man standing” within my family (which I did not win). Being bogged down with a case of the sniffles during the chilly winter months can make the damp weather and shorter days feel all the more dreary. So, having a well-equipped herbal toolbelt can lend an invaluable helping hand towards making it through the germy winter season unscathed. One of my most relied on tools in my seasonally supportive toolbelt this time of year is herbal-infused syrups.
Herbal syrups have quickly become one of my favorite ways to absorb a concentrated and customizable array of herbs into my system without choking down an unpleasantly bitter decoction. When thinking of herbs for seasonal support, botanicals in the Asteraceae family, such as echinacea and chamomile, are likely to come to mind. While these botanicals have earned their rightful place in the herbal hall of fame for good reason, one beneficial species of this flowering family tends to be reached for less often—elecampane (Inula helenium). Known for its bright yellow flowers and aromatic roots, elecampane has been utilized for thousands of years across Chinese Medicine and traditional European herbalism for respiratory-related ailments. Think of elecampane as the respiratory-supportive cousin of immune-supportive echinacea!
When developing this recipe, I embarked on a sticky journey to accomplish two things. First and foremost, I wanted to create an herbal-infused syrup packed to the brim with herbs known for their ability to support the throat. Second, I wanted to create a syrup that doesn’t require sacrificing flavor for function. My first goal was achieved by leaning on our star herbal ally, elecampane, for overall respiratory support. I also incorporated marshmallow root and mullein for their beneficial mucilaginous properties and spilanthes for its diffusive and desensitizing qualities. I accomplished my second goal with the addition of traditional chai spices, such as cardamon, ginger, and cloves. Not only do these spices add a familiar and comforting flavor but they also provide a warming effect that is sure to soothe a scratchy throat. The result is a tasty infused syrup that can support the body’s ability to restore balance and send the seasonal sniffles and chills back to the icy air outside where it belongs!
Makes approximately 12 ounces of syrup.
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Directions
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. For educational purposes only.
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