Grandma's remedy: Milk, honey, and butter against colds
I have to admit that as a child, I didn't really like this drink. Now, I appreciate its taste and, above all, its properties. I always make it for myself whenever I feel like I'm catching a cold or my throat hurts.
A long time ago, before anyone had heard of so-called golden milk, everyone knew about milk with butter and honey. My dad believed in its healing power and would prepare this drink for me when I was very young. Back then, I found it too fatty and sweet, but over the years I've grown accustomed to the taste. It's worth drinking because it works better and faster than many pharmacy remedies.
Natural remedies still on top
Even though pharmacies are stocked with cold remedies and supplements, natural methods have fortunately remained popular for years. At this time of year, warming drinks full of vitamins, minerals, and substances with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties are especially effective. They ease breathing and soothe coughs and runny noses. Infusions of linden, ginger, or raspberries are still widely used. Milk with honey and butter—sometimes with added garlic—is also very popular. This concoction is particularly effective for sore throats and also boosts immunity.
Nothing better for warming up
Why does it work? Milk contains vitamins and minerals that help strengthen immunity. Additionally, warm milk soothes and calms an irritated throat. When honey, a natural antibiotic, is added, it can reduce the effectiveness of bacteria and viruses. This drink also has anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. If you add garlic to it, its antibacterial effect is even stronger. In this combination, butter is also significant. It contains linoleic acid, which supports milk's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action. It also includes lecithin, which aids in body regeneration. There’s a reason my dad gave me this milk in the evening. This drink not only helps with falling asleep but also warms you up beautifully.
How to prepare a strengthening drink?
Ingredients:
- A cup of full-fat milk
- 1 teaspoon of unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1-2 cloves of garlic, optional
Preparation method:
- Heat the milk and add the butter and honey, and, optionally, the garlic, which should be pressed or finely chopped.
- The milk should only be heated to about 50°C; it shouldn't boil, as this will reduce the effectiveness of its ingredients, especially the honey.
- Stir the mixture until the ingredients are dissolved.
- This prepared milk is best consumed just before bedtime.
