In a large pot, combine the dried elderberries and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.

After 1 hour, add the ginger, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Continue to simmer until about 2 cups of liquid remain, around an hour.

Remove the pot from heat and let it cool slightly. As it cools, stir in the lavender.

Once the mixture has cooled to room temperature, strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.

Add the honey to the strained liquid and stir until well combined.

Store the elderberry syrup in a jar in the fridge. Should keep for up to 6 months.

GUMMIES: In a bowl, pour 1/2 cup of cold elderberry syrup over 3 tablespoons of gelatin. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to allow the gelatin to bloom.

In a saucepan, heat 1 cup of elderberry syrup over medium heat until it reaches a hot simmer. Do not boil.

Combine the bloomed gelatin mixture with the hot elderberry syrup, stirring well until the gelatin is fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.

Pour the mixture into your molds of choice.

Place the molds in the refrigerator and let the gummies set, usually around 20-30 minutes, or until firm.