One of the most common problems related to health is the one related to chest and throat. The phlegm and mucus which accumulate in the chest and the throat can be rather uncomfortable and lead to pain and congestion.

When facing a cold our nose and sinuses begin producing watery secretions in large amounts in order to help the mucus to protect the body. The mucus is actually a sticky substance which becomes thick and crusty due to excessive dryness. Its role is to act as a filter and lubricant i.e. to protect our lungs by filtering the air we breathe.

As for the phlegm, it is very similar to mucus. However, it is thicker and it is not produced by the nose and the sinuses but by the lower airways. It also protects the lungs but since it contains dead bacteria and viruses, we should always spit it out i.e. we should avoid swallowing it.

If you are one of those people who has been having constant fights with that annoying congestion and want to get rid of the mucus and phlegm, you should consider the following syrup which is a 100% natural homemade remedy.

The main ingredients of this syrup are sage and marshmallow root. Sage is a common herb which is especially helpful in treating abdominal problems, sore throat and indigestion. It is also useful for relieving anxiety, boosting memory and relaxing the nerves.

Its key characteristic is the one of acting as an expectorant which means that it can break up the mucus and phlegm accumulated in the chest and throat and relieve the respiratory system.

The marshmallow root has properties which are incredibly effective in reducing inflammation. It is particularly helpful in treating stomach ulcers and stones in the urinary tract. It can also act against diarrhea and constipation. The marshmallow root heals wounds and burns by accelerating the healing process.

The other three ingredients which are used for this syrup are lemons, maple syrup and flaxseed. Lemons are rich in Vitamin C and boost the immune system. Maple syrup is full of zinc and thus important for the immunity as well.

Flaxseed contains powerful agents with demulcent and expectorant properties. To prepare the syrup you need to mix 250ml of filtered water and 1 cup of pure maple syrup.

The mixture is placed on medium heat for 10 minutes and then the other ingredients (1 tablespoon of sage, 1 tablespoon of marshmallow root, 1 tablespoon of flaxseed and 1 sliced lemon) are added and cooked for 15 minutes.

The mixture is stored in containers and kept in a fridge. One tablespoon of the syrup is taken three times a day until your health problems get better.