Homemade Throat Lozenges

During fluctuations of weather, everyone seems to get sick. People who were healthy all winter now have sniffles and sore throats—for which I have the perfect little secret weapon. These homemade throat lozenges are soothing, a snap to make and omit the artificial colorings, flavorings and sugar found in many store-bought versions.

I go for the flower petal version because they remind me of the violet pastilles that my grandmother used to get, but adding some mint is nice, too, if you are feeling sniffly. The trick here is to use 1/2 cup total of whatever combination you think sounds soothing to your ails.

One of the key ingredients is marshmallow root, which you can order online or purchase at health food stores. Marshmallow root has been used since antiquity to tame sore throats because it has a soothing effect on inflamed and irritated tissues.

1/2 cup total:

Dried peppermint
Dried spearmint
Violet petals
Rose petals
Powdered ginger

Honey
1 teaspoon dried marshmallow root

1. With a mortar and pestle or spice grinder, crush dried herbs/petals to a fine powder. Mix with enough honey to form a ball, and add marshmallow root.

2. Shape into small balls or ovals and allow to dry on a baking sheet at room temperature for 24 hours. Wrap in wax paper, or store in a jar, refrigerated for up to 8 weeks.

Read more: Health, Children, Cold and Flu, Natural Remedies