In autumn and winter, our body is more susceptible to bacterial and viral infections. This is why it is so important to strengthen the immune system and provide ingredients that will stimulate it to fight harmful microorganisms. One of the best ways is to consume natural syrups. They not only reduce the risk of infection, but they also help clear the lungs, have anti-inflammatory properties, and relieve unpleasant symptoms such as coughs, fever and sore throat. Meet the best homemade syrups. Check out how they work and how to prepare them.
Black cumin syrup
Black cumin contains over 100 biologically active substances, and the effect of some of them has been scientifically proven. They have strong anti-inflammatory properties, stimulate the immune system and fight bacteria and fungi. Black cumin syrup will be an indispensable aid for flu or other infections. To prepare it, you will need 100 ml of ground black cumin seeds, 200 ml of linden honey, a teaspoon of thyme oil and a teaspoon of ground ginger root (preferably fresh). All ingredients are mixed and heated in steam or in a water bath to a maximum temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. Pour the resulting syrup into bottles and store in a cool place. In case of infection, the syrup can be drunk a teaspoon 2–3 times a day.
Turmeric and ginger syrup
A syrup based on turmeric, honey and ginger will help us recover faster from infection. The substances contained in these natural products have strong anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral and warming properties. They help to cough up phlegm and clear mucus from the lungs. The effects of turmeric have been scientifically proven – it’s not for nothing called a natural pain reliever. To prepare the syrup, we need half a liter of honey (preferably lime or acacia honey), 3 teaspoons of ground turmeric, 2 teaspoons of dried ginger and a pinch of ground black pepper (it contains pipeline, which increases the absorption of the valuable substances of turmeric). All ingredients must be mixed and stored in a jar at room temperature. It is best to eat the syrup several times a day in a small spoonful.
Honey beet syrup
Honey beet syrup is a bomb of vitamins, minerals and other biologically active substances. This is useful not only during infection, but also after its completion – it accelerates the regeneration of the body and strengthens the weakened immune system. This will bring relief from a debilitating cough, hoarseness and a sore throat. This will slow down the multiplication of bacteria and viruses in the body. To prepare the syrup, we need one large beetroot and lime or acacia honey. The beets need to be peeled, coarsely grated or diced, and then placed in a jar in layers, alternating with honey. After a few days at room temperature, the syrup will accumulate in the jar, which should be filtered and poured into a bottle. You can consume 3 teaspoons a day.
Black mulberry syrup
Black mulberries contain many biologically active substances with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In traditional medicine, they have been used to combat coughs, diabetes and stomach problems. Today, black mulberry syrup is one of the most effective natural substances in helping fight upper respiratory tract infections. It helps cleanse the lungs and reduce fever, and it contains substances that soothe coughs and have antibacterial properties.
Mulberries (available at health food stores) should be washed, placed in a saucepan and chopped, then covered and refrigerated for 4 days. After this time, juice is released from the mulberry, which you just need to strain. Cook for a short time with sugar (at first there should be half the amount of fruit), and then pour into jars or bottles and store at room temperature. During infection, the syrup can be drunk 3–4 times a day.
