A Season of Gratitude

As we approach the end of another year, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey that is Bloomfield Botanicals. This will be my last blog post before Christmas, and I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported this small, heartfelt venture.

Thank You for Believing

To everyone who has enjoyed our elderberry syrup, winter elixir, oxymel, or fire cider – thank you. Each product is made by hand, in small batches, every single week. There’s something magical about this rhythm of creating, and knowing that these remedies find their way into your homes and your lives means the world to me.

A word about the elderberry syrup: it’s the trickiest of all our products because it needs refrigeration. I use raw wildflower honey, which naturally crystallizes in the cold. So if your syrup has a thicker texture, don’t worry – as long as it tastes good, it’s doing exactly what it should. That’s the beauty of working with pure, natural ingredients.

I want to be clear about what goes into these products: I do not use any artificial preservatives like potassium sorbate or citric acid. Instead, I use fresh juice from organic lemons. There’s no refined sugar – only raw wildflower honey. These are pure, simple ingredients that work together as nature intended.

Faith Is a Gift

Today, a customer came to collect syrup from my home, and somehow our conversation turned to believing and faith. She said something that struck me deeply: “You have to believe it, and faith is the gift. Faith is a gift.” I’m trying to live in grace, and honestly, if things don’t work out perfectly, I’ve learned not to let it consume my day.

What I’ve experienced this past year has been an amazing gift – having access to organic elderberries and being able to create products that are genuinely beneficial. Using organic apple cider vinegar with the mother has been a game winner. Just today, I made myself a drink with elderberry oxymel and sparkling water instead of my usual syrup on porridge – it was absolutely delicious.

The Science Behind the Magic

You know, elderberries have been used as an ancient remedy for thousands of years. Even birds know their power – they feed on these berries before flying across the world on their incredible migrations. These berries must be a true power source!

But it’s not just folklore. Modern science has revealed something remarkable: elderberry compounds can actually block viruses from entering human cells. Research from the University of Sydney found that elderberries inhibit viruses at multiple stages – they prevent the virus from attaching to cells, stop it from entering, and even block it from replicating once inside. The researchers were surprised to find elderberries were even more effective at the later stages of infection.

The magic comes from compounds called anthocyanins (which give elderberries their deep purple color) and other phytochemicals. These natural compounds bind to the virus particles themselves, blocking their ability to infect our cells. Studies have shown this works against influenza, coronaviruses, and other respiratory viruses. How incredible is that?

Elderberries also support our immune system by helping our cells communicate better and respond more efficiently to invaders. It’s like giving your body’s defense system the tools it needs to do its job properly.

**A note on using elderberry products:** Elderberry syrup or tincture is best consumed as a prevention on a daily basis. In fact, anything with elderberries – whether it’s syrup, oxymel, or fire cider – is wonderful for strengthening your immune system. These aren’t just remedies for when you’re feeling unwell; they’re daily allies in maintaining your health throughout the winter season.

**Sources:**

- Torabian, G. et al. (2019). “Anti-influenza activity of elderberry (Sambucus nigra).” Journal of Functional Foods. University of Sydney.

- Krawitz, C. et al. (2011). “Inhibitory activity of a standardized elderberry liquid extract against clinically-relevant human respiratory bacterial pathogens and influenza A and B viruses.” BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

The Beauty of Uniqueness

Each batch I make is unique. I’m always surprised that it tastes different every time, yet always great. That’s the nature of handmade products using real ingredients – they reflect the season, the fruit, the moment they were made.

Gratis for Community

I’ve met the most amazing people at markets – customers and fellow artisans alike. I’m so grateful for:

• Fussels Oil Company** for helping me with bottling

• Tasha from Land Food Medicine** – she is such an authentic soul and an inspiration. Check her out if you haven’t already

• My neighbour Fran** for helping me at markets and at home. What a gift to have a neighbour who is also a friend

• Gaia** for her wonderful marketing assistance – helping me share the Bloomfield Botanicals story

• My stepson Oli** for his graphic skills – bringing visual beauty to what we do

I wish all neighbours could unite like this, support one another, and build real community.

A Peaceful Wish

As this year closes, I keep coming back to balance – mind, body, and spirit. That’s what these remedies are really about. Not just immune support or winter wellness, but nourishing ourselves in a holistic way.

Thank you for being part of the Bloomfield Botanicals journey. Thank you for believing in handmade, in natural remedies, in supporting small businesses, and in building community together.

With deep gratitude,

*Bloomfield Botanicals*