Cough is a frequent companion of colds and other respiratory diseases. When choosing the right syrup, it is crucial to understand whether you need an agent to soothe a dry cough or to make it easier to cough up mucus. We present two simple homemade recipes adapted to your needs.
Coughing is a natural body reflex that helps clear the airways. Let's distinguish between dry (irritating) cough and productive cough with mucus. It is with a dry cough the goal is to calm the irritation, while with a productive cough we want to facilitate expectoration. Check the home recipe for cough!
1. Syrup to soothe a dry cough
Honey syrup with olive oil and lemon
Ingridients:
- 1.5 cups of honey
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Juice of 5 lemons
Preparation:
- Mix honey, olive oil and lemon juice in a pot.
- Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the ingredients are combined into a homogeneous mixture.
- Set aside and allow the syrup to cool.
- Store in a sterilized jar with a lid in the refrigerator.
- Use: Before use, mix the syrup and heat it slightly. Take one tablespoon as needed. This syrup soothes an irritated throat and reduces the irritation that causes a dry cough.
2. Syrup for easier expectoration
Onion syrup with honey
Ingridients:
- 1 large onion
- 2-3 tablespoons of honey
Preparation:
- Peel the onion and cut into thin slices.
- Alternate layer of onion and layer of honey in the jar until all ingredients are used.
- Close the jar and let it stand overnight at room temperature.
- The next day, strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a fine strainer.
- Use: Take one tablespoon of the syrup several times a day. Onions contain compounds that thin mucus and facilitate its expectoration, while honey acts as a natural antiseptic.
Why is it important to know which syrup to use?
Using the wrong syrup can prolong recovery or even worsen symptoms. With a dry cough, the goal is to calm the irritation, so syrups that moisturize and soothe the mucous membrane are suitable. In the case of a productive cough, we want to stimulate expectoration, so we use syrups that thin the mucus and facilitate its removal.
Understanding the type of cough is key to choosing the right treatment. Homemade syrups can effectively relieve symptoms and speed up recovery. However, always pay attention to the duration and severity of the cough and consult a medical professional if necessary.
