As an apparent cough epidemic sweeps the island, people are interrogating their parents and grandparents about possible old-time folk remedies as modern medicine may sometimes seem insufficient.

The first remedy that springs up is usually the classic Ġulepp.

This is a honey like syrup that is made from the pods of the carob tree. It can be bought from many supermarkets and greengrocers. If you know the whereabouts of a carob tree you can also brew it at home.

Ġulepp is soothing to the throat and is also an expectorant. It is a strong antioxidant and is supposed to lower cholesterol. A couple of teaspoons in a glass of hot water will soothe your throat and slow down your coughing.

And it also tastes great.

Another remedy is Fidloqqom or Borage in English.

These pretty blue flowers are often used in salads in fancy restaurants for the look and peppery taste. They apparently also offer relief from cough, colds, stuffy nose and sinus.