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This immune boosting smoothie recipe employs the natural power of black elderberries, which have nearly double the anthocyanins as other berries. This special type of flavanoid promotes immune support, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-cancer benefits.
Blended with antioxidant rich fruits to support a healthy immune system, this recipe is a winner.
For a few years, my family had no health insurance and I took a proactive approach to health care. We boosted our immune system to help us not get sick in the first place. From green smoothies to plant-based meals to natural remedies— we did anything we could to not get sick….and it worked.
Kids have started going back to school (mine included), restaurants are opening and new COVID cases are still making the headlines, it’s vital to build up your body’s natural defense: the immune system.
Table of Contents
One of the key immune supporting ingredients I added to our smoothies was elderberry syrup. I’ve partnered with Sambucol Black Elderberry Syrup to create a tasty immune boosting smoothie recipe.
Where to Buy Elderberry Syrup
You can find Sambucol Elderberry Syrup at Target, Costco, Amazon, major drug stores and also on the Sambucol website. It’s been flying off the shelves since COVID-19 became a pandemic, which is exciting to see more and more people lean towards the natural remedies world.
Benefits
Black elderberries are a natural remedy to boost the immune system. I first learned about it from a friend, who’s mom and grandmother used it. It’s a natural remedy passed on generation to generation because it has been shown to work.
This plant-powered elderberry syrup is rich in a particular antioxidant: flavonoids. Flavonoids help prevent damage from free radicals at the cellular level. A particular flavonoid, anthocyanins, is found heavily in black elderberries.
In fact, the United State Department of Agriculture found that black elderberries contain nearly twice the amount of anthocyanins compared with other berries. Some studies suggest that consuming elderberries can help support and maintain a healthy immune system. Elderberries are also a good source of vitamins A, B, and C, which are also important for immune function.
Elderberry Syrup in a Smoothie
I’m sure you’ve noticed my favorite ingredient in this immune boosting smoothie is elderberry syrup. Along with the delicious berry flavor, elderberry syrup is packed with natural health benefits.
It’s important to note that black elderberry syrup is a dietary supplement. It isn’t intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Yet elderberry syrup is a natural remedy that my family has experienced the benefits of and I’m excited to share it with you today.
You can make your own DIY Elderberry Syrup Recipe, yet it takes more time and money. It’s just so convenient to keep Sambucol Elderberry Syrup on hand. Whatever way you go, you can use either syrup interchangeably in this immune boosting smoothie recipe.
How to Make an Immune Boosting Smoothie
I came up with this unique recipe of fruits and other plants chosen specifically for their immune-supporting properties. I also wanted it to be something that my kids would happily drink. This smoothie does all that with a few fun ingredients.
If you’ve never had a smoothie with dragon fruit, it’s very similar to kiwi both in texture and flavor. A lot of grocery stores now carry frozen puree or cubed dragon fruit. You can use fresh or frozen in this immune boosting smoothie recipe.
Also, I included coconut water because I love that added nutrients. You can easily swap with water or almond milk in this smoothie, if preferred.
Depending on how many you’re making this smoothie for, increase the amount of elderberry syrup accordingly to make sure everyone gets some of it. Plus, the flavor of the elderberries really compliments this smoothie.
For more immune boosting recipes using Elderberry Syrup, check out my Elderberry Smoothie Popsicles and Immune Boosting Smoothie Cubes.
Don’t forget to rate + review this smoothie once you make it. I can’t wait to read your freedback!
Immune Boosting Smoothie
Ingredients
- ½ cup dragon fruit frozen
- ½ cup blackberries frozen
- 1 banana
- 1 cup coconut water
- 2 tsp black elderberry syrup
- 1 serving homemade protein powder optional
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a blender.
- Puree until smooth.
- Serve immediately.
Equipment
Video
Notes
- Other berries can be substituted for the blackberries. We recommend those high in antioxidants such as blueberries, raspberries, or cranberries.
- Make sure to use at least 1 frozen fruit for a refreshingly cool smoothie.
- Missing the leafy greens? Feel free to add up to 1 cup!
Love smoothies and do what I can to stay healthy. I just turned 75 and don’t look it or feel it. I look forward to trying elderberry syrup.
Rawk on, Dianne!
Any suggestions for those of us who dislike bananas? I’m intrigued by new ingredients.
How kind of you, Julia! I suggest leaving the banana out or you can sub 1/2 an avocado if you want some creaminess.
My cousin was recently diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently in treatment. I’ve been helping her with some natural immune boosters, like essential oils and, of course, your immunity smoothies. I believe she would really enjoy this one as she loves berries and tropical flavors like the dragon fruit. This recipe will be perfect for her!
Come back and let us know how she liked it!
I love elderberry syrup! I have seen first hand how it helps ward off unwanted sickness!
That’s great, Laura!
My parents have recently started making green smoothies after a family friend told them about the benefits they’ve seen since drinking green smoothies. As seniors, it has never been more important for them to boost their immune system. They need to prepare their bodies for the upcoming winter season where COVID and the flu will be a double threat…
That’s very true, Sarah, and it’s great that you + your parents are taking steps to stay healthy and support your immune systems. 🙂
Looks so good! Cold season coming up.
And what better reason to start drinking this smoothie? 🙂
I’ll definitely try the Sambucol Black Elderberry syrup in this recipe — it looks delicious! Boosting my immune system is important to me.
This smoothie is super delicious!
Elderberry is one of my go to ingredients to keep my immune system up.
Love to hear it, Dorothy!
With the regular flu season upon us in addition to Covid-19, I want all the help I can get to stay healthy. I’ve heard of the benefits of elderberry syrup and would love to try it!
So true, Cathy. We’re looking at a double whammy this fall / winter, and it’s important to get ahead of it!
Dragonfruit smoothies are the prettiest EVER! This one was delicious (sans the banana, can’t do that in a smoothie)!
I agree, Kavli! I just love the color!
This is my 34th day quarantined being Covid positive! I have never tried elderberry syrup and could sure use an extra boost!
Kelly, so sorry to hear you have Covid-19! Elderberry syrup for sure would help your immune system fight the virus. Hang in there! We’re wishing you a speedy recovery!
Elderberry is yummy and good for you. I love to give to my family during the fall. It’s especially crucial during the time we are currently in.
So true, Shamieka!
Can’t wait to try this syrup! We’re needing all the immunity help we can get right now. With Covid but also not being able to be around the public isn’t helping our immune systems with anything.
This syrup is a great way to support our immune systems, especially now!
Would like to try this remedy for my son, who recently had a surgery and now goes to church to study with other kids. Hopefully it’ll help him to have stronger immune system to fight viruses and bacteria.
The great thing about this smoothie is that it’s packed full of nutrients and immune-boosting goodness *and* it’s kid approved!
Lots of reasons to wanna boost my immune system. This elderberry smoothie recipe is a great way to start my day.
This smoothie is definitely a wonderful way to start your day!
This is so cool, I have never tried Elderberry syrup. I like the fact of all the benefits you get from it.
Def come back and let us know what you think after you give it a try, Lori!