As we flip the calendar to September in Grand Chute, the air turns crisp, kids head back to school, and the leaves slowly begin their colorful transformation. Here at the Grand Chute Gazette, our mission is to uplift the community by sharing positive stories and valuable information that enhance the lives of individuals of all ages. What better way to prepare for the changing seasons than by spotlighting a natural solution for our health? For our September 2026 Herbal Spotlight, we are celebrating the powerful Elderberry (Sambucus canadensis).
The Autumn Immunity Booster
Elderberry bushes are native to Wisconsin and flourish along the edges of our local woods, trails, and waterways. As a publication dedicated to positive and solutions-based storytelling, we love elderberry because it offers a proactive, natural way to support wellness as we head into the back-to-school cold and flu season.
- Immune Support: Elderberries are packed with vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining a strong immune system during the seasonal shift.
- Antioxidant Rich: The deep, dark purple pigment of the berries comes from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and oxidative stress.
- Soothing Relief: Traditionally, elderberry syrups have been used in herbalism to soothe scratchy throats and quiet winter coughs.
Foraging in Grand Chute
Harvesting elderberries is a great way to get outdoors and foster stronger community bonds by bringing the family together for a late-summer foraging walk. Look for large, drooping, umbrella-like clusters of dark purple-black berries in early-to-mid September. Always ensure you correctly identify the plant to avoid toxic look-alikes like Water Hemlock, and only harvest from areas free of heavy roadside pollution.
Recipe: September “Back-to-School” Elderberry Syrup
This simple syrup captures the immune-boosting power of September and is the perfect remedy to have on hand as the weather cools down.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup dried Elderberries (or 1 cup fresh, ripe, destemmed berries)
- 2 cups Water
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
- 1 slice of fresh Ginger
- 1/2 cup raw, local Wisconsin honey
Instructions:
- Simmer: Place the elderberries, cinnamon, ginger, and water in a small pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30-45 minutes until the liquid is reduced by half.
- Mash & Strain: Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Mash the berries carefully in the liquid to release all their juices, then strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a glass jar. Discard the berry pulp.
- Sweeten: Once the dark liquid has cooled to room temperature, stir in the raw honey until completely dissolved.
- Store: Keep your syrup tightly sealed in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Enjoy a spoonful daily!
A Critical Safety Reminder
The stems, leaves, and unripe (green or red) berries of the elder plant contain compounds that can cause severe digestive upset and nausea. Berries must be fully ripe and cooked before consuming. If you have an autoimmune condition, please consult your healthcare provider before using elderberry.
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