Harnessing the Healing Power of Bay Leaves: Homemade Syrups for Cough Relief

When the cold weather sets in, the risk of catching a cold or the flu looms large. While readily available vitamins and medications from the pharmacy are our go-to solutions, there’s something to be said about turning to traditional remedies that our grandmothers swore by. One such remedy that stands the test of time is the use of bay leaves to make a soothing and effective syrup for cough relief. In this article, we’ll delve into the properties of bay leaves, the benefits of this homemade syrup, and how to make it. Say goodbye to irritating coughs and hello to a natural solution that’s both cost-effective and comforting.

The Power of Bay Leaves: Bay leaves are more than just a flavor enhancer in your culinary creations. These unassuming leaves pack a punch when it comes to health benefits. They are known to soothe coughs and sore throats, support the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections, and possess properties that help alleviate abdominal pain, flatulence, and diarrhea. Additionally, bay leaves have a calming effect and can assist with insomnia. Now, let’s explore how to create a homemade bay leaf syrup that harnesses these remarkable properties.

Homemade Bay Leaf Syrup Recipe: Ingredients:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 lemon
  • 10 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda

Instructions:

  1. Begin by placing the bay leaves in a bowl and pouring cooled boiled water over them. Rinse each leaf and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  2. In a separate pot, add a small amount of water to cover the bottom and 1 cup of sugar (either white or brown).
  3. Heat the pot over low heat, stirring until the sugar caramelizes, resulting in a uniform consistency and a golden brown color.
  4. Pour 1 cup of boiling water into the caramelized sugar and mix thoroughly. Add the bay leaves and stir again.
  5. Simmer the mixture over low heat, covered, for 3 minutes.
  6. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool.
  7. Meanwhile, wash the lemon thoroughly and cut half of it into slices. Squeeze the juice from the other half.
  8. Once the syrup has cooled down, strain it through a sieve into a glass. Add lemon slices and lemon juice.
  9. Store the syrup in the refrigerator and consume 1 tablespoon of this natural remedy three times a day when experiencing a cough.

a jar of homemade cough syrup with honey, minced garlic and ginger in it. A lemon and garlic are on a cutting board behind it.

Onion and Bay Leaf Syrup: If you’re looking for an alternative remedy, consider the following onion and bay leaf syrup:

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 kg of onion
  • 2 dl of water
  • 3-4 bay leaves
  • 250 g of honey

Instructions:

  1. Clean the onion, leaving the bottom skin intact, and cut it into quarters. Place it in a pot and cover it with water. Add the bay leaves and heat on the stove.
  2. Let everything simmer at a low temperature for approximately 1 hour, adding water if necessary.
  3. After the cooking time has passed, strain the decoction through a thick sieve.
  4. Once the liquid has cooled, mix in 250 g of honey.
  5. Store the mixture in a glass jar with a lid in the refrigerator.
  6. Take 2 tablespoons of this natural syrup three times a day for three days or until symptoms subside.