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    Home » Gut Healing Drinks

    Natural Cough Syrup Recipe

    Published: Feb 24, 2025 · Modified: May 5, 2025

    Homemade cough syrup cover photo
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Natural Cough Syrup Recipe! If you are looking for a natural old fashioned remedy to cure a sore throat or cough, then try this natural cough syrup! This natural remedy has been used by hundreds of years and is a very powerful elixir.

    Free of unwanted chemicals, additives and preservatives, my homemade natural cough syrup recipe uses only what the earth gave us. I used a mix of potent organic herbs, whole spices, and anti inflammatory vegetables covered with local organic honey.

    If you're tired of using cough syrup that is filled with artificial ingredients, then try this natural cough syrup out today!

    Disclaimer: I am not a doctor and this is an alternative natural solution that is not guaranteed to work. This recipe is indented to complement and support your health and not replace medical treatment. Always check with your doctor before trying any alternative recipes and always seek medical care for severe illnesses.

    NATURAL COUGH SYRUP INGREDIENTS

    Only good for you, all natural ingredients go into this natural cough syrup recipe! And a added bonus if you use local organic ingredients.

    Natural homemade cough syrup ingredients

    To fill 1 16 ounce jar of natural cough syrup, you will need:

    • 1 red or yellow onion
    • 1 whole bulb of garlic
    • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
    • 1 cinnamon stick
    • 2 inches of ginger
    • 2 inches of turmeric
    • Honey to cover (approximately 1 ½ - 2 cups)

    NATURAL COUGH SYRUP VS CONVENTIONAL INGREDIENTS

    When dealing with a cough or sore throat, many people turn to store bought cough syrups, but these often contain artificial ingredients, added sugars, and preservatives that may not be ideal for long-term health.

    Conventional Cough Syrup:

    • Often contains high fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners that can disrupt gut health.
    • May include dyes, preservatives, and alcohol that can irritate sensitive systems.
    • Provides temporary relief but does not support overall immunity or healing.

    Homemade Natural Cough Syrup:

    • Made with whole, natural ingredients that support immune and gut health.
    • Contains antiviral and antibacterial compounds from honey, garlic, onion, and herbs.
    • Fermented, which enhances beneficial enzymes and probiotics for digestive health.
    • No artificial additives, preservatives, or unnecessary sugars.

    Choosing a natural, homemade cough syrup provides relief while supporting your body’s natural defense system—all without synthetic ingredients!

    Natural homemade cough syrup recipe

    GUT HEALTH BENEFITS OF NATURAL COUGH SYRUP

    A healthy gut plays a major role in your immune system, and a fermented cough syrup like this one offers so many benefits:

    • Supports the Gut Microbiome – The fermentation process creates probiotics and prebiotics, which help maintain a balanced gut. A strong gut microbiome is essential for fighting off infections.
    • Natural Anti-Inflammatory Properties – Ingredients like garlic, ginger, turmeric, and honey help soothe the digestive system and reduce inflammation, which can worsen during illness.
    • Promotes Better Digestion – Unlike conventional syrups that may disrupt gut bacteria, this syrup nourishes the gut with natural compounds that aid digestion and prevent bloating.
    • Honey as a Natural Prebiotic – Raw honey feeds beneficial gut bacteria, helping to strengthen immunity while acting as a natural antimicrobial agent.

    By using a fermented homemade cough syrup, you're not only relieving symptoms but also enhancing gut health and long-term immunity!

    TIPS TO MAKE THE BEST NATURAL COUGH SYRUP

    1. Use raw, unpasteurized honey for the best fermentation and antimicrobial benefits.
    2. Let it ferment for at least 1 week, but longer fermentation (up to a month) increases potency.
    3. Shake the jar every few days to mix ingredients and enhance fermentation.
    4. Store at room temperature for a milder taste or refrigerate to slow fermentation.
    5. Take 1 teaspoon as needed, or mix into warm tea for extra soothing effects.

    HOW TO MAKE NATURAL COUGH SYRUP

    STEP 1: PREPARE INGREDIENTS

    Here's the ingredients you will need again for 1 16 ounce jar of homemade cough syrup:

    • 1 red or yellow onion
    • 1 whole bulb of garlic
    • 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
    • 1 cinnamon stick
    • 2 inches of ginger
    • 2 inches of turmeric
    • Honey to cover (approximately 1 ½ - 2 cups)

    Get started by preparing and cleaning all of your natural cough syrup ingredients: peel the outer layers of the onion and slice the ends off. Make sure there are no dirt particles or debris on the onion.

    Peel and roughly chop your garlic cloves to get more surface area to interact with the honey syrup. Make sure to trim off the bottoms of the garlic and slice off any brown spots.

    Peel and clean up the ginger and turmeric. Make sure to slice off any brown or bruised spots.

    Wash and rinse the fresh rosemary.

    STEP 2: ADD ALL INGREDIENTS TO A JAR

    Add all of the ingredients to a mason jar, pressing down to pack them in.

    Cover completely with honey. You will have to wait for the honey to settle and continue topping the honey off.

    Be patient so that all the honey is settled to the bottom and all air bubbles have risen to the top so that your vegetables and herbs are completely covered with the honey.

    You need about 1 ½- 2 cups of honey for this step.

    STEP 3: COVER AND FERMENT

    Cover your jar with a tight fitting lid and leave your holistic cough syrup on the counter at room temperature to ferment at least 1 week. It will be stronger and more effective if you let it ferment for 2 or 3 weeks.

    honey fermenting with garlic onions and herbs

    HOW TO STORE & TAKE NATURAL COUGH SYRUP

    When you are ready to use your homemade cough syrup, shake the jar up to incorporate everything together. Then, remove the lid and use a clean spoon to get about a tablespoon of the honey syrup.

    You can take 1 or more tablespoons every day, just make sure each time you are dipping into the jar you are using a clean spoon.

    You can store your natural cough syrup with the ingredients still inside, there is no need to strain it.

    Store it in the fridge covered tightly for up to a month.

    Looking for more ways to support your gut health and immunity? Try these healing drinks:

    • Natural Electrolyte Drink
    • Blueberry Chia Seed Water
    • Raspberry Chia Seed Water
    • Homemade Kombucha
    • Anti Inflammatory Tea
    • Immune Boosting Tea
    • Gut Healthy Tea
    • Detox Tea
    • Bone Broth

    (You can also add this honey to any of these drink recipes for an extra boost!)

    FAQ'S

    1. How long does homemade cough syrup last?

    If stored properly, it can last several months in the fridge or at room temperature. Honey acts as a natural preservative.

    NOTE: Honey is a natural preservative due to its low moisture content and antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. If kept in a clean, airtight jar away from direct sunlight and moisture, your fermented cough syrup can last several months on the countertop without spoiling.

    2. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

    Yes! If using dried rosemary, use 1 teaspoon per sprig as a substitute. Dried ginger and turmeric can also work, but fresh is more potent.

    3. Does this actually ferment?

    Yes! The natural sugars in honey feed the beneficial microbes, creating a gentle fermentation that enhances its health benefits.

    4. Can I use a different type of sweetener?

    Honey is best for fermentation, but you can try maple syrup or agave if you prefer a vegan option. Keep in mind, fermentation may not occur the same way.

    5. How do I know if it has gone bad?

    If it develops a foul smell, mold, or an unusual texture, discard it. However, natural fermentation often creates harmless bubbles or a slightly tangy aroma.

    6. Can I take this daily as a preventative?

    Absolutely! 1 teaspoon a day can help boost immunity and support gut health, especially during cold and flu season.

    7. Can I strain out the ingredients after fermentation?

    Yes! You can strain the syrup for a smoother texture or leave the ingredients in for continued infusion.

    Natural homemade cough syrup recipe

    If you try my Natural Cough Syrup Recipe, please let me know your thoughts by leaving a rating and comment below! Ready for more? Subscribe to my newsletter or follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube!

    Natural homemade cough syrup recipe

    The Best Natural Cough Syrup Recipe!

    Looking for a natural alternative when you or your kids are feeling under the weather? Look no further than my natural cough syrup recipe! My natural cough syrup is made without dyes, preservatives or any artificial ingredients. Just garlic, turmeric, ginger, and herbs covered in honey for a natural remedy you can use for years to come!
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 30 minutes mins
    Fermenting time 7 days d
    Total Time 7 days d 30 minutes mins
    Course Drinks
    Cuisine American
    Servings 24 tablespoons strained cough syrup (approximately)
    Calories 64 kcal

    Equipment

    • 16 ounce glass mason jar
    • tight fitting lid or fermenting lid

    Ingredients
      

    • 1 medium red or yellow onion
    • 1 bulb garlic
    • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
    • 1 cinnamon stick
    • 2 inches fresh ginger
    • 2 inches fresh turmeric
    • 1 ½ cup raw honey to cover you might need more

    Instructions
     

    • Get started by preparing all of your natural cough syrup ingredients: peel the outer layers of the onion and slice the ends off. Make sure there are no dirt particles or debris on the onion.
      Peel and roughly chop your garlic cloves to get more surface area to interact with the honey syrup. Make sure to trim off the bottoms of the garlic and slice off any brown spots.
      Peel and clean up the ginger and turmeric. Make sure to slice off any brown or bruised spots.
      Wash and rinse the fresh rosemary.
      1 medium red or yellow onion, 1 bulb garlic, 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, 1 cinnamon stick, 2 inches fresh ginger, 2 inches fresh turmeric
      Natural homemade cough syrup ingredients
    • Add all of the ingredients to a mason jar, pressing down to pack them in.
      Cover completely with honey. You will have to wait for the honey to settle and continue topping the honey off. Be patient so that all the honey is settled to the bottom and all air bubbles have risen to the top so that your vegetables and herbs are completely covered with the honey.
      1 ½ cup raw honey to cover
      Natural homemade cough syrup recipe
    • Cover your jar with a tight fitting lid and leave your holistic cough syrup on the counter at room temperature to ferment at least 1 week. It will be stronger and more effective if you let it ferment for 2 or 3 weeks.
      honey fermenting with garlic onions and herbs
    • When you are ready to use your homemade cough syrup, shake the jar up to incorporate everything together. Then, remove the lid and use a clean spoon to get about a tablespoon of the honey syrup.
      You can take 1 or more tablespoons every day, just make sure each time you are dipping into the jar you are using a clean spoon.
      You can store your natural cough syrup with the ingredients still inside, there is no need to strain it.
      Store it in the fridge covered tightly for up to a month.
      Natural homemade cough syrup recipe

    Notes

    Nutrition facts for any recipe on the hint of rosemary are only an estimate and not guaranteed. 

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1tablespoon natural cough syrupCalories: 64kcalCarbohydrates: 17g
    Keyword bestnaturalcoughsyruprecipe, herbalcoughmedicinerecipe, herbalcoughsyruprecipe, holisticcoughsyruprecipe, homeopathiccoughsyruprecipe, naturalcoughmedicinerecipe, naturalcoughsyruprecipe, naturalcoughsyruprecipeforadults, naturalcoughsyruprecipeforkids, naturalcoughsyruprecipewithhoneyandginger, naturalcoughsyruprecipewithhoneyandonion, oldfashionednaturalcoughsyruprecipe
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      5 from 1 vote

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Sam

      February 25, 2025 at 2:42 am

      5 stars
      This is amazing!! I’ve been wanting to make one for a long time !

    2. Rosemary

      February 26, 2025 at 1:15 am

      I can't wait to hear what you think!

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    Rosemary Squires registered dietitian of the hint of rosemary blog

    Hi, I'm Rosemary, a registered dietitian and proud mom to a lively toddler. Back in 2015, I launched Hint of Rosemary to share my genuine passion for delicious and enjoyable healthy eating.

    In our home, I celebrate the delightful fusion of American and Jordanian cuisines, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Arabic cuisine, and striving to create a harmonious blend of cultures. My hope is that you'll find inspiration here and, above all, savor every bite.

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