Thyme syrup for coughs and colds
How to make thyme syrup:
Ingredients: 2 tbsp of Thyme, 2 tbsp of Plantain and 1 tbsp of Mint (if you use dried herbs it is half the amount)
Method:
Make tea with 500ml/1 pint water:
Pour hot water just off the boil over the fresh herbs
Steep for 15-20 minutes
Strain into a pan
Add 250grm honey or brown sugar
Keep warm until dissolved (for honey not more than 40C), if you use sugar simmer on low heat to thicken syrup.
You can add 1 tbsp brandy/vodka to stabilize syrup.
Once cooled fill into sterilised dark glass bottles and store in the fridge for 3-6 month.
How to use syrup:
Take 1-2 tsp several times a day for sore throats, coughs and colds. Alternatively you can add syrup to hot drink, adding freshly pressed lemon juice, some grated ginger and cloves and maybe a pinch of cayenne or ground ginger.
Why using Thyme? (Common and Lemon Thyme): Powerful antiseptic (anti-viral, -bacterial, -fungal), anti-cough, stimulates the immune system, relaxing effect on bronchial tubes (asthma, whooping cough) cleansing liver tonic, stimulates circulation, tonic for whole body systems, for mental + physical exhaustion. Warning – Avoid in Pregnancy
Benefits of other ingredients:
Plantain or Ribwort – Antibacterial, expectorant, relieving harsh coughs, demulcent + very soothing, for allergies, bronchitis, colds and sinusitis
Peppermint – good for chills & fevers, catarrh, general tonic, energy enhancer, refreshing taste, relaxing, calming, anti-bacterial, -viral, -fungal