Home remedy: Hot lemon for colds
The tradition: The lemon is popular worldwide for self-medication, as a source of vitamin C, against infections or to invigorate. No wonder: it is in stock in most households or easy to obtain, inexpensive and tastes good. The “hot lemon” is the second most popular household remedy in Germany – after the head steam bath for inhalation and before honey, camomile tea and chicken soup.
This is what science says: It is used for colds. The warm drink with lemon juice and honey combines various active principles: healing ingredients, warmth, supply of liquid and finally moistening of the throat mucosa by drinking slowly, sip by sip. Lemons contain many vitamins, minerals and trace elements, as well as essential oil, pectin and citric acid. Honey is an energy booster due to the sugar, and it also contains antibacterial substances, including enzymes. Some of these are sensitive to heat. Vitamin C is also broken down at high temperatures. Therefore, lemon and honey should not be poured over with boiling water, but rather with warm water.
Recipe: Put the juice of half a lemon and 1 teaspoon of honey in a cup (150 ml), pour boiled, slightly cooled water over it. Stir. Drink in small sips. Can be supplemented with a strip of lemon peel (organic, washed) or some fresh ginger or ginger juice.
Source: Stern
I’m Caroline, a journalist and author for 24 Hours Worlds. I specialize in health-related news and stories, bringing real-world impact to readers across the globe. With my experience in journalism and writing in both print and online formats, I strive to provide reliable information that resonates with audiences from all walks of life.
