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At the first scratch
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A scratchy throat is often the first sign something's coming on.
For generations, people have reached for hot water with lemon and honey at exactly that moment. Some research suggests honey may ease a cough, and the little vitamin C in lemons plays a real part in how the body fights off infection.
What would it ease for you?
Additional info
Good to know
Not one for babies under one — honey isn't suitable before their first birthday.
What you'll need
- 1 cup hot water, just off the boil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp honey
- 2 tbsp jaggery, palm jaggery, or coconut sugar
Method
Heat the water until hot, not boiling.
Squeeze in the lemon, then stir in the rest until it dissolves.
Drink it while it's still hot. Some take a cup every few hours when something's about.
Through a week when colds are about, notice whether it settles before it takes hold, and how you feel as the days go on.