ELDERFLOWER CORDIAL

ELDERFLOWERS contain anti-inflammatory constituents, and can soothe an inflamed respiratory system. Harvest on a sunny day when the flowers are looking and smelling their best.

INGREDIENTS

l 20 HEADS OF FRESH ELDERFLOWERS

l 1KG (2¼LB) UNREFINED SUGAR

l 30G (1OZ) CITRIC ACID l JUICE AND ZEST

OF 2 LEMONS

METHOD

POUR 1½ litres (2¾ pints) of water into a pan and bring to the boil. Reduce heat, add sugar and dissolve. Bring to the boil again, then reduce heat and simmer for ten

to 30 minutes, or until it has thickened to a syrup consistency. Remove from the heat.

Remove the flowers from their stems and rinse thoroughly to remove any bugs. Add the flowers, citric acid and lemon zest and juice to the sugar syrup. Stir to combine.

Transfer to a large jar or glass bowl and cover with a clean cloth. Leave for one day, but stir twice during that day. Strain the mixture into a bowl through a muslin cloth or fine sieve. Pour into sterilised bottles, seal, label and date.

To use, mix one part cordial to four parts still or sparkling water. This cordial will keep unopened in a cool, dark place for up to six months. Once opened, keep in the fridge and use within two weeks. CLEANSING COLD INFUSION CHILDREN love playing with sticky willies (galium aparine), but this herb is also a lymphatic cleanser – a great herb for clearing the skin and aiding waste elimination. This drink is incredibly refreshing on a hot summer day.

INGREDIENTS

l 2 HANDFULS OF FRESH STICKY WILLIES

l ¼ OF A CUCUMBER

l 2-3 SLICES OF LEMON l 500ML (1 PINT) FILTERED WATER

METHOD

Wash and finely chop or crush the sticky willies. Finely slice the cucumber into ribbons.

Place the herb, cucumber and lemon slices into a glass jug with a lid. Cover with water, put the lid on and leave in the fridge overnight.

Drain into a glass and drink on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. This will keep in an airtight container for up to two days.