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Spruce is not only a beautiful tree, but also a valuable herb with many medicinal effects. Its young shoots have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat respiratory illnesses, coughs, sore throats and to support immunity. If you want to try a natural alternative to chemical medicines, syrup made from young spruce shoots is an ideal choice. This article will show you how to easily prepare syrup at home that will help you fight colds and strengthen your immunity.
When to collect spruce shoots?
The most suitable period for collecting spruce shoots is late spring. Young spruce shoots have the greatest medicinal potential. This part of the tree is light green and very tender, which means it contains the most valuable sap and nutrients. It is important to collect shoots in sunny weather, because after rain the shoots may be damp and harder to process.
How to prepare syrup from young spruce shoots?
There are two main ways to prepare syrup from young spruce shoots – without cooking and with cooking. Both methods are simple and will allow you to use the spruce’s medicinal effects all year round.
Syrup from spruce shoots without cooking
This method is very simple and preserves as many nutrients from the young shoots as possible. You will need the following to prepare it:
- Young spruce shoots
- Sugar
Procedure:
- Select only fresh young shoots that have not yet emerged from the brown sheath. These shoots should have a delicate light green color.
- Place the shoots in a jar or container in layers and sprinkle each layer with sugar. Gently press each layer down with a pestle or your fist.
- The last layer should be sugar.
- Close the container and leave it in a warm place for about 5 weeks. Gently shake it every day so the shoots release their juice.
- After a few weeks a liquid should begin to form, which is excellent as a syrup. Strain this syrup and store it in bottles in a cool place.
Cooked spruce syrup
If you prefer cooking, prepare the syrup using this method. It will be stronger and longer-lasting. You will need the following to prepare it:
- Young spruce shoots
- Cold water
- Sugar (1 kg per 1 liter of decoction)
Procedure:
- Place the young spruce shoots in a pot and cover them with cold water at a ratio of 1:3.
- Simmer the mixture over low heat for 1 hour.
- After this time strain the decoction and add sugar. Continue to cook until the syrup thickens.
- Pour the finished syrup into bottles and pasteurize so it will keep longer. Store in a cool, dark place.
What are the medicinal effects of spruce syrup?
Spruce is rich in vitamin C, provitamin A, vitamin K, flavonoids and essential oils. Thanks to these substances, spruce syrup has many medicinal effects. It is known for its expectorant effects, which help with colds and coughs. It also has anti-inflammatory and warming effects, which are ideal for soothing sore throats and loosening the airways.
Syrup from young spruce shoots is an excellent natural remedy for boosting immunity. Thanks to its high vitamin C content, it helps boost the body’s defenses. To improve overall vitality and prevent colds, take 1-2 teaspoons of syrup daily.
Conclusion: The benefits of spruce syrup
Spruce syrup is an excellent natural remedy that has a wide range of health benefits. It helps treat coughs, bronchitis, sore throats and other respiratory problems. In addition, it strengthens the immune system and is ideal for preventing colds. If you are looking for a natural alternative to commercial medicines, syrup from young spruce shoots is a great choice.
Remember that when preparing syrup it is important to follow proper dosing and storage. If you have any health problems or are taking other medications, always consult your doctor.
