There’s nothing quite like a persistent cough to disrupt your day and your sleep. Luckily, my grandmother’s homemade syrup is a tried-and-true remedy that can help soothe even the worst coughs. With just three simple ingredients—boiling water, bay leaves, and lemon—you can make this effective and comforting syrup at home. Let’s explore how to prepare this natural remedy and why it works so well.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

1. Bay Leaves: Bay leaves are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. They help soothe irritated airways and fight off infections that cause coughing.

2. Lemon: Lemons are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which boost the immune system and help the body fight off colds and respiratory infections. The acidity of lemon juice can also break up mucus and provide relief from congestion.

3. Boiling Water: Boiling water helps to extract the beneficial compounds from the bay leaves and lemon, creating a potent and soothing syrup.

Ingredients

• 1 cup boiling water (240 ml)
• 10 bay leaves
• 1 lemon

How to Make the Syrup

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Boil the Water: Start by bringing one cup of water to a boil.
2. Add Bay Leaves: Once the water is boiling, add the 10 bay leaves. Let the bay leaves steep in the boiling water for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the leaves to release their beneficial compounds into the water.
3. Prepare the Lemon: While the bay leaves are steeping, wash the lemon thoroughly. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze the juice into a bowl. Make sure to remove any seeds.
4. Combine the Ingredients: After the bay leaves have steeped, remove the pot from heat. Strain the bay leaves out, leaving the infused water. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the bay leaf water and stir well.
5. Cool and Store: Let the syrup cool down to a comfortable temperature. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar or bottle. You can store this homemade syrup in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How to Use the Syrup

• Dosage: Take one to two tablespoons of the syrup three times a day. You can take it on its own or mix it into a cup of warm water or tea for added comfort.

Why This Syrup Works

• Anti-inflammatory: The combination of bay leaves and lemon helps reduce inflammation in the throat and respiratory tract, easing the discomfort of a persistent cough.
• Immune-Boosting: The vitamin C in lemon juice helps boost your immune system, aiding in quicker recovery from colds and coughs.
• Natural Mucolytic: Lemon juice acts as a natural mucolytic, breaking up mucus and making it easier to expel, which helps clear your airways.

Conclusion

My grandmother’s homemade syrup is a simple, natural remedy that can help soothe even the worst coughs. With just three ingredients—boiling water, bay leaves, and lemon—you can create an effective syrup that not only eases coughing but also supports your overall respiratory health. Give this recipe a try the next time you or a loved one is battling a stubborn cough, and experience the comforting relief it brings. Stay healthy and breathe easy!