Are you tired of reaching for store-bought cough drops that are often filled with artificial flavors and sweeteners? If you’re looking for a more natural and effective way to soothe your sore throat, consider making your own homemade cough drops. This recipe combines the healing properties of lemon, honey, and ginger to provide a comforting and soothing remedy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to create your own homemade cough drops.
WHY YOU’LL LOVE MAKING HOMEMADE COUGH DROPS
ALL-NATURAL RELIEF
Store-bought cough drops often contain an active ingredient called dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant. While it’s commonly used, dextromethorphan is a narcotic related to opium and may cause side effects like blurred vision, dizziness, nausea, and stomach pain. Its misuse as a hallucinogen is on the rise, and it’s even been labeled a “gateway drug” by health authorities.
This homemade cough remedy uses simple, natural ingredients straight from your pantry, with no chemicals or artificial additives!
SAFE FOR KIDS
These DIY cough drops are made from honey, sugar, lemon, ginger, and cinnamon—so you can feel confident giving them to your little ones. However, keep in mind that honey is not recommended for babies under one year of age.
EASY TO MAKE
While making cough drops might sound tricky, it’s really as simple as heating the ingredients to 300°F and pouring the mixture into candy molds. It’s super easy!
EFFECTIVE RELIEF
Unlike over-the-counter cough medicines that merely suppress the cough reflex and may cause drowsiness, these natural cough drops soothe a sore throat by coating it, while also giving your immune system a boost!
HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE COUGH DROPS
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon organic ground cinnamon
- 2-inch chunk fresh ginger root, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Zest from 1 lemon or 25 drops food-safe lemon essential oil (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
WARNING: You will be working with extremely hot ingredients while making these cough drops, so please take care to avoid burns!
- Preparation: Set out your candy molds and place parchment paper underneath for easy cleanup.
- Heating: In a small saucepan, combine honey, water, chopped ginger, cinnamon, lemon zest (if using), and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently. Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature until it reaches 300°F. Once it does, immediately remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture sit for a few minutes until the bubbles subside.
- Mixing: Stir in the lemon essential oil (if using) to blend all the ingredients.
- Pouring: Working quickly and carefully, spoon the hot honey mixture into the candy molds, filling them to the top.
- Setting: Allow the cough drops to sit for 30-60 minutes until completely hardened. Once set, pop them out of the molds.
NOTES
- To Use: Take one cough drop as needed until symptoms improve.
- Storage: To prevent sticking, store the cough drops in a mason jar in the fridge, or wrap each one in a small piece of parchment paper.
- Substitutions: You can replace fresh ginger with 1 teaspoon of ground ginger if desired.
- Variations: For a different flavor, substitute food-grade orange essential oil or orange zest for lemon.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- Yield: 30 servings
- Serving Size: 1 cough drop
- Calories: 43
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 0g
FAQ
1. Is Cinnamon Good For A Cough And Cold?
Cinnamon is a powerhouse of health benefits, rich in antioxidant polyphenols and proanthocyanidins that naturally enhance your immune system. Additionally, it boasts potent antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, making it an excellent choice for supporting overall health and well-being.
2. Does Ginger Break Up Mucus?
Fresh ginger is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making it an effective ally in combating infections. Its anti-inflammatory effects can help soothe a sore throat by reducing inflammation and alleviating irritation.
3. Is Lemon Good For A Cough?
Lemon zest and juice are highly effective at breaking up mucus, making them great for respiratory health. Fresh lemons are rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and enhances the body’s ability to fight off infections.
CONCLUSION
Homemade cough drops made with lemon, honey, and ginger offer a natural and effective way to soothe your sore throat. By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can create a comforting remedy that is free from artificial additives. Remember to store your homemade cough drops in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Enjoy them as needed to alleviate your cough and promote healing.
