A cup of herbal tea during the Winter months is a daily ritual to appreciate the season's coziness and stay healthy by boosting your immune system.

Many elderberry products have sugar/fructose, thickeners and preservatives, which are not beneficial for our health. This recipe uses only natural ingredients that are easy to find and will support you during the cold months.

The beautiful deep purple berries from the Sambucus tree are loaded with vitamins, antioxidants and immune-boosting properties. Here we pair them with spices for a warming and nourishing tea.

Ingredients:

12 oz water
1 cinnamon stick
1 star anise
1 cardamom pod
1 clove
1 tablespoon unsweetened 100% elderberry Juice (or to taste)
local honey (optional, to taste)

Recipe:

Pour your water into a saucepan and add the cinnamon stick, cardamom pod, star anise and clove. Simmer gently for 15 minutes over low/medium heat, and let it rest for a few minutes once you turn your heat off.

Remove from the stove, strain out all plant material and pour the liquid to your favorite mug. Add in Elderberry juice and honey to taste if you choose to, stir well, and enjoy hot.

Optional: Garnish with a slice of orange.