It was around this time several years ago I suffered through one of the worst bouts of bronchitis I’ve ever had in my life. Like really bad. So bad those two weeks of my life resembled something akin to death warmed over with a side of #slothlife.
The kind of days that turn into weeks spent unable to get out of bed. Where every time I lay down I start hacking up a lung.
Then there were the other symptoms. Including my nose that was so congested, I felt like I’m blowing out my brains hourly. And my voice sounded super amazing. In a total Harvey Fierstein-esque kind of way.
I was frustrated, to say the least. Because in addition to being sick I had a million other things on my plate, that as a neophile blogger without a virtual assistant. So I was hurting in major ways. After nearly a week and a half of such living, I knew I needed to pull myself together. So, of course, holistic means were in order. And this homemade cough syrup was born.
Now let me be the first one to say, this is not the most pleasant tasting of concoctions. It tastes awful. Like, really strong. But it works. And works well!
So if you are also in need of something to help fight off a cough and even sinus and back-of-the-throat sinus drainage symptoms at home, this syrup is for you!
How to make homemade cough syrup
To make this syrup you’ll need a few simple ingredients to make this homemade cough syrup and sore throat soother. Most of which you will already have on hand at home
Keeping in mind the following ingredients are necessary and shouldn’t be swapped out of this blend at home including:
- Apple Cider Vinegar – I recommend Bragg Organic Raw Apple Cider Vinegar or homemade for this homemade cough syrup recipe. which
Vinegar restores the body’s pH factor, which becomes more alkaline during a cold. While also slowing down mucus production. - Lemon Juice- Lemon juice is loaded with Vitamin C. Excellent for immune-boosting during cold and flu season!
- Ground Ginger- Ginger is a natural antihistamine. With natural anti-inflammatory properties that help to relieve chest congestion.
- Cayenne Pepper- A natural pain-reliever.
- Honey- Honey is a great source of antioxidant, contains an array of antibacterial and antifungal properties, heal wounds, aid digestions, helps fight high cholesterol levels, and soothes sore throats.
- Filtered Water- Water. You know, your body true necessity for fighting illness at home!
How to use homemade cough syrup
The recipe instructions are super simple. Just combine all the ingredients in a glass jar with a lid and shake up to combine. Then consume one teaspoon as needed. I put it in a teaspoon and take right down the back of the throat. This helps to minimize the super strong taste when you miss your tongue completely.
Besides, its really your throat that you want to coat with this homemade cough syrup – not your mouth, teeth, and tongue. Then, chase that with a cup of water.
As this blend is acidic in nature, it’s also a good idea to brush your teeth after use to help protect your teeth’s enamel. As you would, and should, after consuming high-acid beverages life juice and soda pop too!
How To Use This Syrup
Keep in mind, this blend is both spicy and strong. Making it not be best for children (or even adults) who have difficulty with ingredients necessary to make this syrup. However, I did find it very helpful and beneficial in my personal use each cold and flu season at home.
Note: it is not recommended to give honey to any child under 1 year of age under any circumstances.
What I love most about this syrup? After just a day of using this, I was back to annoying my husband with my lovely brand of prickly loveliness!
Friends, that’s how simple it is to make homemade cough syrup at home this season! And its a recipe I hope you will try yourself. Now I want to ask, do you make any of your own holistic remedies at home for cold & flu season? Let me know about them in a comment below! Love this recipe for Homemade Cough Syrup? Sign up for The Lady Prefers 2 Save email updates and never miss another recipe!
Homemade cough syrup and natural remedy for sore throats and coughs this winter season at home!
Ingredients
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Juice of half a lemon
Instructions
- Combine all of the ingredients in a jar.
- Cover with a lid and shake to combine.
- Take 1 teaspoon at a time to soothe sore throats and coughs.
- Repeat every couple of hours as needed.
Notes
Store in the refrigerator.
Do not give to children under 1 year because it contains honey.
Oh, I need this right now. I’ve been sick with a sinus infection for 2 weeks. And I have everything listed in the ingredients!
Wow! This is awesome and SIMPLE! I bet it would be great in a tea too. Thanks for sharing at the #HomeMattersParty – we hope to see you again next week. 🙂
~Lorelai
Life With Lorelai
Ha! How simple! And most (if not all the ingredients) are so common in my kitchen! Thankfully we don’t get sick too often, but how long would this last refrigerated? 🙂
Hi, thank you stopping by! I’m glad you have most things on hand, too! Also, as the last line in the post states, this can be refrigerated for up to a year; please be sure to re-read the post for this information. Thanks for stopping by!