What do they contain, and what does the cedar resin do?

The key ingredient of these lozenges is cedar resin. It is a resinous substance from coniferous trees, traditionally used in northern regions in products for the mouth and throat. As the lozenge dissolves, the resin is slowly released and, together with the oil base, helps soothe the mucous membrane if there is a feeling of dryness, scratchiness or irritation.

The other ingredients complement the formula:

• Honey and lemon oil round out the flavour and make the lozenge more pleasant to take;
• Propolis and vitamin C are ingredients often included in similar formulas as an addition during periods of seasonal strain on the body.

This combination of familiar plant and bee ingredients — cedar oil, resin, propolis, honey and lemon — determines the flavour and character of the product. It is not a medicine but a throat product with familiar ingredients that can be seen as an alternative to ordinary sugary boiled sweets.