Coughs can be stubborn, but you don’t need store-bought medicine to find relief. This homemade syrup uses just three natural ingredients—lemon, bay leaves, and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup—for a soothing and effective remedy. It’s simple to make, tastes great, and works wonders.
Why These Ingredients Work
- Lemon: Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, lemon boosts immunity and soothes the throat.
- Bay Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, bay leaves help calm irritation in the respiratory tract.
- Honey/Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that coats and soothes the throat while adding antibacterial benefits.
Ingredients
- 1 lemon (organic if possible)
- 5 fresh or dried bay leaves
- ½ cup honey or maple syrup (to keep it sugar-free)
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Lemon
- Wash the lemon thoroughly and slice it thinly.
- Simmer the Syrup
- In a small saucepan, combine the water, bay leaves, and lemon slices.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Add the Sweetener
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Stir in the honey or maple syrup until fully dissolved.
- Strain and Store
- Strain the mixture into a clean jar or bottle, discarding the solids.
- Let it cool completely before sealing the container.
How to Use
- Take 1–2 teaspoons of the syrup as needed to relieve coughing.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
This natural syrup is gentle enough for daily use and effective at calming even the most persistent cough. Plus, it’s free from artificial additives and loaded with the healing power of nature!
