
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.
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!
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
- Use raw, unpasteurized honey for the best fermentation and antimicrobial benefits.
- Let it ferment for at least 1 week, but longer fermentation (up to a month) increases potency.
- Shake the jar every few days to mix ingredients and enhance fermentation.
- Store at room temperature for a milder taste or refrigerate to slow fermentation.
- 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.
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.
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!
The Best Natural Cough Syrup Recipe!
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
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
Sam
This is amazing!! I’ve been wanting to make one for a long time !
Rosemary
I can't wait to hear what you think!