Background Respiratory tract disorders, including cough and common cold symptoms, remain among the most prevalent health concerns worldwide. Traditional herbal remedies have long been used to alleviate such conditions due to their safety, bioactive compounds, and multi-target therapeutic effects. Medicinal plants such as Rosa damascena, Viola odorata, and Ceratonia siliqua are rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, and essential oils known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties. Meanwhile, Stevia rebaudiana provides a natural, non-glycemic sweetening alternative suitable for diabetic individuals. Objective This study aims to develop and characterize a sugar-free herbal julep syrup formulation combining selected medicinal plants to create a palatable functional food with potential benefits in soothing the respiratory tract, reducing cough, and supporting immune function. Methods A standardized formulation was developed using aqueous and hydroalcoholic extraction techniques to obtain bioactive constituents from the selected plant materials. The preparation included: Extraction of phenolic-rich fractions from plant materials Controlled blending to preserve volatile and aromatic compounds Sweetening with purified steviol glycosides as a sugar substitute Phytochemical screening was conducted to assess the presence of: Total phenolics Flavonoids Tannins Aromatic compounds The formulation was further evaluated for: Organoleptic properties (taste, aroma, acceptability) Functional suitability for diabetic-friendly consumption Literature-based pharmacological validation using references such as the Physicians' Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines Results The developed syrup demonstrated: High content of phenolic and antioxidant compounds Presence of volatile oils (e.g., citronellol, geraniol, nerol) from Rosa damascena Flavonoids and mucilage components from Viola odorata contributing to expectorant and soothing effects Tannins and polysaccharides from Ceratonia siliqua supporting respiratory health The formulation showed good palatability and stability, with effective sweetness achieved using stevia without increasing caloric load or glycemic index. The combination exhibited synergistic potential for: Reducing cough frequency Soothing mucosal irritation Supporting immune response Discussion The integration of traditional herbal knowledge with modern formulation techniques resulted in a functional syrup with promising therapeutic and nutritional value. The synergistic interaction between phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and essential oils enhances antioxidant capacity and may contribute to reducing oxidative stress associated with respiratory inflammation. The use of Stevia rebaudiana addresses key health concerns such as diabetes and obesity, making the formulation suitable for broader populations. Compared to conventional sugar-based syrups, this preparation offers a safer alternative with added preventive potential. Further experimental and clinical studies are recommended to validate efficacy, optimize dosage, and confirm pharmacological mechanisms
Khatib et al. (Tue,) studied this question.