So You Wanna Be an Herbalist? Let’s Make a Syrup

Hey there, herbal friend 🌿 Welcome back to our little “So You Wanna Be an Herbalist” series! If you’re here, you’re probably curious about crafting simple herbal remedies—and today, we’re diving into one of the easiest and tastiest: herbal syrups.

Wait, What Is an Herbal Syrup?

Herbal syrups are sweet, shelf-stable concoctions made by gently simmering herbs in water, then mixing that strong tea (technically a decoction) with either honey or sugar. That’s it. You’ve probably had elderberry syrup at some point—same idea, just with different herbs.

Syrups are:

• Easy to make

• Kid-friendly (especially when sweetened with honey)

• Versatile—you can add them to tea, drizzle on pancakes, or take by the spoonful

• A great way to preserve seasonal herbs

  
  

A Seasonal Beginner Favorite: Lemon Balm & Elderflower Syrup

This recipe is perfect for late summer, when your nervous system is tired, your sinuses might be acting up, and you just want something cooling, comforting, and calming.

Lemon balm is gentle and uplifting—a friend to anxious minds and upset stomachs.Elderflower is soothing for seasonal sniffles and known for its immune-supporting properties.

Let’s make some syrup!

🌼 Lemon Balm & Elderflower Syrup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lemon balm (or 2 cups fresh)

• ½ cup dried elderflowers (or 1 cup fresh)

• 3–4 cups water

• 1 to 1½ cups honey or sugar (raw honey for immune benefits; sugar for longer shelf life)

  
  

Instructions:

1. Add herbs and water to a saucepan.

2. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it reduce by about half (this takes 30–40 minutes).

3. Strain out the herbs with a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth.

4. While the liquid is still warm (but not boiling hot), stir in your honey or sugar until fully dissolved.

5. Let it cool, then store in a clean glass jar or bottle in the fridge.

   
   

How Long Does It Last?

• With honey: 3–4 weeks in the fridge

• With sugar: Up to 2–3 months (sugar is a stronger preservative)

  
  

How Do You Use It?

• Take 1–2 teaspoons daily for gentle nervous system support.

• Add to sparkling water for a DIY herbal soda.

• Mix with warm water and lemon for a cozy evening drink.

• Drizzle it over fruit or yogurt if you’re feeling fancy.

  
  

Syrup-Making Tips for New Herbalists

• Always label your syrup with the date and ingredients.

• If it starts to smell funky, bubble, or grow mold, it’s time to compost it and make a new batch.

• You can experiment with different herbs, but start with just a few at a time so you get to know them well.

Herbal syrups are one of those remedies that feel like a gift from you to you—sweet, supportive, and simple. And now, you’ve officially made your first one 🥳

Stay curious, stay cautious, and most importantly—taste as you go (because that’s half the fun, right?).

Until next time, herbally yours 💚