If you usually reach for store-bought cough syrup when you’re feeling under the weather, here’s a natural, tasty, and effective alternative you can make right in your own kitchen.
These homemade cough drops help soothe a sore throat, ease coughing, and provide relief during colds or flu – all with simple, natural ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make your own natural cough sweets, gather the following:
1 cup sugar
½ cup water
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – rich in vitamin C, supporting immune health.
1 tablespoon honey – Manuka honey is ideal, but any high-quality honey works. It’s antibacterial, naturally soothes sore throats, and helps suppress coughs.
½ teaspoon ground ginger – boosts immunity, has anti-inflammatory properties, and can help with pain relief and nausea.
¼ teaspoon ground cloves – helps reduce phlegm, contains antiseptic properties, and is packed with antioxidants. (If you don’t have ground cloves, you can crush whole dried ones.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the pan
Place a small pan on the stovetop and add the sugar and water. - Add the flavor and health boosters
Squeeze a fresh lemon, measure one tablespoon of juice, and add it to the pan.
Stir in the honey, ginger, and cloves.
- Cook the mixture
Turn the heat to medium-high and stir until the ingredients are fully combined.
Once the mixture starts to simmer, stir again and reduce to a low heat.
Let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring regularly. The goal is a thick, dark, syrupy consistency. - Prepare your tray
While the mixture simmers, line a baking tray with parchment (baking) paper. - Shape the cough sweets
Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Be careful – the syrup will be extremely hot.
Using a spoon (safer than a piping bag unless you’re experienced), drop small amounts of the syrup onto the parchment paper to form bite-sized pieces. - Cool and coat
Allow the drops to cool for about 20 minutes.
Dust with powdered icing sugar to prevent them from sticking together. - Store for later
Once coated, place the cough drops in a tin or airtight box lined with baking paper.
You can also dissolve a couple of drops in hot water for a soothing drink.Why This Works
This simple recipe combines natural ingredients with proven soothing properties:
Lemon boosts vitamin C intake.
Honey coats the throat and fights bacteria.
Ginger supports the immune system and eases discomfort.
Cloves add powerful antioxidants and help break down mucus.
Together, they create a natural remedy that’s both delicious and effective.
Final Tip: These homemade cough sweets are perfect to have on hand during cold season. They’re easy to make, store well, and give you control over exactly what goes into your remedy – no artificial additives needed.
