Kopf Canyon Botanics

How to Make Elderberry Syrup Elderberry Syrup is often used medicinally to boost the immune system. Each ingredient is selected for it's medicinal value. We make our elderberry syrup using wild Blue Elderberries, Sambucus caerulea, which are native to the Pacific Northwest and considered the best flavored of the North American native elderberry species. You won't find this growing commercially, as it grows 20-30 feet tall! Most of the elderberry available online are Sambucus nigra or canadensis which are a dark glossy fruit known for their slightly bitter, tart flavor native to Europe but also found in North America.    Elderberry syrups are folk recipes, and there are many variations as people's taste varies. You may adjust ratios of spice, or omit them if you prefer. This is the one our family uses.  Ingredients: 1 cup dried Blue Elderberries, Sambucus caerulea , available from canyonbotanics.com . If fresh or frozen, 2 cups. 1/4 c rose hips (optional source of Vi...

How to Make Tinctures with Medicinal Herbs Making tinctures with medicinal herbs is easy and only requires three ingredients  and a few supplies. Not only is a tincture the simplest way to use herbs, but it  increases the potency and extends their shelf life.  Tincture Ingredients: Medicinal Herb (many are available through canyonbotanics.com ) 100 proof drinking alcohol, such as Vodka Time and patience (6 to 8 weeks!) Fresh herbs are preferred for tinctures, but dried herbs can be used as well.  We use 100 proof alcohol (50% alcohol) regardless, though some will use 80 proof (40% alcohol) with dried herbs because of the water content.  Alcohol should be distilled spirits for consumption - not rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol is toxic. Vodka will not impart a flavor, but any variety of spirit (whiskey, brandy, gin, rum and others). Tinctures can also be made with food grade glycerin or vinegar. We prefer alcohol t inctures because they are absorbed by the b...