Hot Blackcurrant Juice Sore Throat Remedy

Black currants are not only a delicious fruit, but they also have medicinal value. Their main uses are as antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents. That makes the fruit ideal for ailments such as sore throats. So, the next time you have a sore throat, try making this black currant juice to take as a remedy.

After you make the syrup, the best way to take it is to sip it slowly throughout the day. Or, you can take it directly from a teaspoon several times a day. Start with one teaspoon three times a day. Also, remember that you should consult with a physician or medical professional to make sure this is okay for you to take and to get the proper diagnosis.

Note that this remedy is most effective when it is hot! This helps increase the anti-inflammatory action of the fruit itself.

This method is the simplest one I could find. I included a youtube video I found for Black Currant Cordial which is pretty much the same thing - but she uses lemon juice, lemon rind, and sugar in addition to the basic preparation using only black currants and water.

If you do make the simple version, you may want to stir in some raw honey to sweeten it right before serving. Raw honey is also great for sore throats and will give you more bang for your buck. I would also go as far as adding a cinnamon stick. Cinnamon also kills germs while adding flavor so it is an added bonus if you are sick.

Don't have access to fresh black currants? Keep some dried black currants on hand. You can use those instead of fresh ones. Just use half the amount. So, for the recipe I am sharing with you below, use 1/4 cup dried black currants instead of 1/2 cup fresh ones.

Anyway, here is the basic recipe. Note that this recipe serves one.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup fresh black currants

1 cup cold water

Honey (optional)

Cinnamon Stick (optional)

Directions:

Add water and black currants in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil and then simmer until it thickens slightly, about twenty minutes. Strain out black currants and pour the hot liquid into a cup. Stir in honey to taste and garnish with a cinnamon stick if you wish.

For sore throats, this drink is best served warm and then sipped slowly. You may want to reserve a small amount of it to gargle with. It really soothes and heals irritated membranes in the throat. Not only that, but black currants are great for the immune system.

Of course, you could also drink hot black currant juice for pleasure. You don't need to wait until you get sick to enjoy it!