Benefits of lemon juice and clove mixture
Nutritionist and health expert Vijayshree, Director at MGM Healthcare (India), said that winter also makes many people susceptible to runny nose and sore throat. Instead of drinking a cup of coffee in the morning, you can try a cup of lemon water with cloves. This is a folk remedy for cough and cold that can help you improve your cold condition.
Among them, lemon is known for its high vitamin C content, which can boost immunity and help thin mucus, making it easier to expel.
“Cloves, on the other hand, have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. They contain compounds like eugenol and gallic acid, which act as antioxidants and help protect cell health,” says Vijayshree.
Nutritionist Vijayshree also added that cloves act as a cough suppressant, soothing the cough reflex and aiding better breathing, promoting restful sleep. They also help clear the respiratory tract, which is especially beneficial during colds and coughs.
For best results, Vijayshree recommends drinking lemon and clove water twice a day, in the morning and evening when experiencing cold symptoms.
Making
Boil the cloves: First, boil the cloves until the water absorbs all the essence of the cloves.
Keep the water warm: Let the water cool to a comfortable, warm temperature before adding the lemon juice. Avoid adding lemon while the water is still hot to preserve the vitamin C content and avoid bitterness.
Add honey: For added soothing effects and balanced flavor, mix in a teaspoon of honey.
Ms. Vijayshree suggests drinking this drink daily for about a week or 10 days if you have a cold, cough or sore throat for best results.
Who should avoid this drink?
While the lemon and clove drink is safe for most people, people with peptic ulcers, esophageal problems, or throats that are sensitive to lemons may need to be cautious when drinking it, says Vijayshree. You can add honey to help neutralize the acidity of the lemon.
Remember, while lemon juice and cloves may help relieve mild cold symptoms, it's best to consult a healthcare professional for more serious infections.