Conventional cough syrups can be high in sugar and often don’t remedy a cough. Instead, try this homemade cough syrup recipe, which features raw honey, lemon juice and herbs that can help soothe the throat, boost the immune system and settle a cough.
Easy to mix together, this recipe yields a batch for one day. It makes three servings: morning, afternoon and before bed. It’s loaded with natural cough remedy ingredients and should knock out that cough by the time your head hits the pillow!
Natural cough remedy ingredients
Apple cider vinegar: Containing beneficial bacteria, ACV can help give your immune system a quick boost and also soothe your sore throat.
Garlic: If you can, use actual raw garlic in this recipe. Why? Allicin, a compound found in garlic, is known for its ability to kill the microorganisms that are responsible respiratory infections that can lead to coughing.
Lemon juice: High in vitamin C, lemons are also loaded with antioxidants that can help fight inflammation and promote improved immunity.
Raw honey: Working to relieve irritation, reduce inflammation and increase cytokine release, honey also provides immune-boosting antioxidants. In fact, studies show that a single dose of honey can reduce mucus secretion and coughs… and can be just as effective as diphenhydramine and dextromethorphan, common ingredients found in over-the-counter cough medicines.
Ginger: It carries powerful antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties, which makes it a go-to when dealing with respiratory tract infections.
Cinnamon: Containing natural antimicrobial, antibiotic, antifungal and antiviral properties, cinnamon is a welcome and tasty addition to a homemade cough syrup recipe!
Cayenne: With its anti-irritant properties, cayenne pepper can help ease coughs. In addition, it’s full of immune system–supporting beta carotene and antioxidants.
DIY Natural Cough Syrup
This is a recipe for one day. It makes three servings: morning, afternoon and before bed.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar
- Juice from ½ lemon
- 1½ Tbsp. water
- 1 Tbsp. raw honey
- ¼ tsp. ground garlic or 3 cloves, finely chopped
- 1¼ tsp. ground ginger
- ¼ tsp. cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp. ground cayenne pepper
Instructions
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In glass jar, combine all the ingredients.
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Cover jar with lid and shake contents thoroughly. (And do so before each time you consume.)
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Consume one-third of mixture (just over 1 tablespoon) for each serving.
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Refrigerate. When ready to use, let cough syrup sit out for around 10 minutes before consuming.
Recipe Notes
- Still have a cough on day two? Make another batch!
- Order the ingredients you need to make this remedy at Vitacost.com.
