Add water and herbs into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture steep for 1 hour.

Line a fine mesh strainer with some cheesecloth and strain the herb mixture into a large glass measuring cup. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible and discard the herbs (compost them if you can!).

Let the mixture cool until it’s just warmer than body temperature (the glass measuring cup should feel warm but not hot to the touch). Add in the honey or maple syrup, to taste.

Add the brandy or vodka, if using, then pour the mixture into a glass jar or bottle with a tight fitting lid.

Store the syrup/elixir in the fridge. Enjoy a tablespoon or two every day as prevention. At the first sign of a cold, you can take a tablespoon three times a day to give your immune system an extra boost.