 I grow perennial plants here on the permaculture farm for many reasons. They absorb more carbon from the atmosphere than annuals, they have extensive root systems that enrich soil, benefit microbes, and prevent erosion. Perennials require less labor by way of planting each spring and come back with bigger and better harvests after planting. They create amazing homes for birds, insects, and other local wildlife which are all important to the homestead ecosystem. So many perennials perform these tasks plus offer edible harvests and medicinal uses.
Elderberry and aronia berries are such perennials that we grow here at Axe & Root. Elderberry has been well studied, and provides the immune system with support during cold and flu season when taken as a syrup; specifically with regard to viruses. While it does not prevent infection, it has been shown to reduce severity and duration of a virus. You can find one such study here. Aronia berries are full of polyphenols and antioxidants. They have been found to support the body's immune system, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, surpass other common berries in terms of Vitamin C and antioxidant levels. You can find a general study overview here. In this recipe, our own homestead honey is added as a thickening agent and as a sweetener. Most folks know that honey, especially when raw and organic, is an amazing antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antiviral ingredient. Elderberry syrup is easy to prepare and a common cold and flu household remedy. But when combined with aronia berries, a more potent and impactful syrup can be created. Here's the recipe I've created based on research and taste testing for my own home apothecary. INGREDIENTS 3 cups filtered water 2/3 cup dried elderberries 1/3 cup dried aronia berries 1 cinnamon stick 1 cup raw organic honey DIRECTIONS Combine water, elderberries, aronia berries, and cinnamon stick in a small saucepot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Allow to simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes or until the syrup has reduced by half. Remove the syrup from heat and allow to cool fully. Strain the liquid into a large container and discard the solids into the compost heap. Add the raw honey to the syrup mixture and whisk well to combine. Divide the syrup into airtight storage jars. Store in the refrigerator for three to four weeks. DOSAGE For Prevention Adults: 1 tablespoon once daily / Children over the age of 2: 1 teaspoon once daily During a virus Adults 1 tablespoon every 12 hours / Children over the age of 2: 1 teaspoon 2x daily Note: Please talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing before taking elderberry syrup, or if you are taking any medications, or have any health concerns. Please do not feed syrup to children under the age of two years old.  Ducks, like any other living creature on the homestead, get hurt. I've built up quite the arsenal of first aid supplies over the years after dealing with all kinds of gnarly situations. Right alongside conventional medicinals, I also keep homemade balms and salves. This is a topical recipe I created as an all purpose wound application. I use it on poultry (both chickens and geese) and even on myself at times. And it smells like lavender! It is safe for horses also. Black Wound Salve for Backyard Poultry Ingredients 1/2 cup unrefined coconut oil, melted 1 tablespoon beeswax pellets, melted 2 teaspoons raw honey 2 tablespoons activated charcoal 2 tablespoons bentonite clay 20 drops lavender essential oil Directions Combine all ingredients in a heat-safe bowl. Stir until fully combined. Pour the mixture into salve containers such as a mason jar with a wide mouth. The salve will solidify as it cools. Allow to cool fully before securing the lid. To use, simply scoop a small amount of the salve onto your fingers. Gently rub the salve onto the wound of the bird. Covering with a clean bandage is best to avoid melting salve during the warmer months. Repeat as needed. Discontinue use if irritation or reaction occurs.  Why these ingredients?
Coconut Oil Moisturizes skin, creates a protective barrier against bacteria, reduces inflammation Beeswax Reduces inflammation, fights infection, heals wounds (anti-bacterial and -viral) Raw Honey Contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral and antifungal Activated Charcoal Draws out bacteria and impurities Bentonite Clay Contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties while absorbing dirt and oil Lavender Essential Oil Calming aromatherapy in addition to anti-inflammatory abilities |
So what do you do with all that food you grow? This blog has some ideas.
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