This is an excerpt from the article The Abiding Charm of the Hollyhock by Kalee Mund featured in the Summer Vol 3 | Issue 9 | 2024 edition of Botanical Anthology. Our herbal magazine, featuring remedies, recipes and projects with plants for the spring season, can be purchased as a digital version here and as a printed version here.
Hollyhock Cough Syrup
As a soothing expectorant and demulcent, hollyhock makes an excellent remedy for throat and respiratory inflictions making it a strong base for a cough syrup. Lemon balm, while being antiviral and immune boosting, also soothes and relaxes tense tissues. Thyme has antimicrobial properties while increasing circulation by reducing blood pressure. Ginger follows suit as a well known antibacterial and time tested remedy for colds and coughs. Fresh herbs are generally better for this, though dried can always be used and adjusted for potency depending on age.
Materials
1 c hollyhock flowers and leaves
½ c lemon balm
4 c water
⅓ c thyme
¼ c ginger, fresh
1 c honey
Method
Let hollyhock and lemon balm steep in hot water for 3 hours or desired strength.
Strain the plant material and pour infusion into a saucepan, add the thyme and ginger to the pot and simmer to half the amount, then remove from heat. Let cool before adding honey.
Pour into a sterilized bottle, label and keep in the fridge for up to 2 months.
Blending Western and Eastern herbal traditions; Kalee has been practicing Ayurveda for over a decade with an emphasis on women's health, birth and postpartum care. Kalee dedicates her time to her family, tending to their gardens and growing herbs. Creating products with ancient wisdom imbued in each one, and finding local analogues for the more exotic medicines. Follow along her journey @rasabotanicals and see some of her creations at rasaholistic.ca
A plant lover’s dream, Botanical Anthology is a seasonal, plant centered quarterly print and digital magazine presenting inspiration to incorporate herbs in your apothecary, kitchen, foraging and gardening, crafts, celebrations, and more. Brought to you by the folks of Plant Wonder Collective, each edition launches at the start of a new season and features the work of over 40 creative, knowledgeable contributors. To learn more, visit www.plantwondercollective.com and follow along on Instagram @plantwondercollective for daily inspiration of their plant of the month.
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