Cough syrup can be toxic.
Cough syrup is sometimes a necessity. It's hard to tough it out if you have an itchy throat and unexpected coughs. Often, we can’t put our life on hold because we feel under the weather. However, over-the-counter cough medicine can be full of chemicals that just cover up the symptoms experienced with a cold or flu. How about a medicine that helps alleviate the symptoms and also helps kick the virus? There are a few key ingredients that can do both of those things. I whip this up a few times a year (the shelf life is about 3-6 months depending on how you store it) and it works wonders, especially if you pair it with a few herbal steam tents (recipe and directions coming soon) that you can do at home.
Sweet Relief
1 cup Filtered Water
1/2 cup Local Honey
1/2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons Fresh Grated Ginger
3 tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice
1. In a small saucepan, bring water and honey to a simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. Stir frequently.
2. Add the ginger and cayenne and heat for 2-3 minutes on low, stirring frequently.
3. Add fresh lemon juice, mix well and remove from heat.
4. While the mixture is still hot, pour into a jar and seal tightly. I find that a good mason jar works well.
Store this in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-6 months. At the first sign of a cold or the flu, take a teaspoonful of the syrup 2-4 times a day.
How does this recipe work?
Honey helps soothe and coat the throat. Cayenne is a pain reliever and helps to produce a cough - all that stuff in your chest needs to come out or you'll stay sick longer. The ginger and lemon juice are anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and packed full of antioxidants and vitamins that help kick the sickness to the curb.
*Disclaimer: Statements are not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any ailment. Please check with your medical doctor before starting an herbal regimen. This recipe is not FDA approved.