Throughout my entire childhood, my mother treated our cough with this remedy so effectively that she didn’t even take us to the doctor!
It is well known that the flu and common cold are often accompanied by symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, chest discomfort, and blocked sinuses. In most cases, we instinctively turn to store-bought syrups, lozenges, and various pharmaceutical remedies. While many of these products can temporarily suppress coughing, they often contain chemical ingredients that may cause unwanted side effects, interact with other medications, or place additional strain on the body. Most importantly, they frequently fail to address the root cause of the problem and instead focus only on masking the symptoms.
Coughing itself can take many forms, ranging from mild and occasional to severe, persistent, and exhausting. However, it is important to understand that coughing is a natural protective reflex. Its primary purpose is to clear the airways of mucus, microbes, dust, and other foreign particles that can harm the respiratory system. In today’s increasingly polluted and toxic environment, coughing actually plays a crucial defensive role, helping the body expel harmful substances and reduce the risk of serious airborne illnesses.
That said, when a cough becomes chronic or lasts for an extended period of time, it should not be ignored. Chronic coughing may signal an underlying issue such as infection, inflammation, allergies, or irritation of the respiratory tract. Effective treatment always begins with identifying and addressing the cause rather than simply suppressing the symptom. Some commercial cough drops and decongestants contain ingredients that reduce swelling in the airways but may also directly affect heart rate, blood pressure, or the nervous system, which can be risky for certain individuals.
Many medications designed to suppress coughing can lead to side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, or digestive discomfort. They may also interact negatively with other drugs. For this reason, more and more people are turning toward natural remedies that are gentler on the body. The following homemade natural cough drops are not only effective but also pleasant in taste. They are made from simple ingredients that support the immune system and help the body recover faster.
This remedy is especially meaningful to me because it reminds me of my childhood. Whenever we caught a cold or developed a cough, my mother would prepare this mixture at home. It worked so well that doctor visits were rarely necessary. Even now, as an adult, I find myself returning to this recipe during the cold season.
How to prepare natural cough drops at home
Ingredients you will need:
– 100 grams of honey
– 100 milliliters of coconut oil
– A pinch of cinnamon
These ingredients are easy to find, affordable, and packed with health benefits.
Health benefits of the ingredients
Honey is one of nature’s most powerful healing foods. It has strong antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Honey coats the throat, soothes irritation, and calms persistent coughing. Several studies have shown that honey can be more effective in reducing nighttime coughing in children than the main active ingredient found in many commercial cough syrups. This makes it a particularly valuable natural alternative for families.
In addition to relieving coughs and sore throats, honey helps reduce inflammation in the respiratory system, eases breathing difficulties, supports liver detoxification, and promotes healthy digestion by nourishing beneficial gut bacteria. Its antioxidant content also strengthens the immune system, helping the body fight infections more efficiently.
Coconut oil, on the other hand, is rich in lauric acid, a fatty acid known for its powerful antimicrobial properties. Lauric acid helps destroy harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making coconut oil an excellent ingredient for preventing and combating infections. It also supports the immune system and helps reduce inflammation throughout the body.
Beyond respiratory health, coconut oil improves mineral absorption in the bones, supports brain function, helps regulate blood pressure, and can contribute to lowering high cholesterol levels when used in moderation. Its smooth texture also helps coat the throat, providing immediate relief from dryness and irritation.
Cinnamon, though used in small amounts in this recipe, adds both flavor and medicinal value. It has natural anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and warming properties. Cinnamon helps improve circulation, supports digestion, and enhances the effectiveness of the other ingredients. Its gentle warmth is especially soothing during cold and flu season.
Preparation method
Start by placing the coconut oil in a bowl. If it is solid, allow it to soften at room temperature or gently warm it until it becomes easy to whisk. Using a whisk or fork, begin beating the coconut oil until it becomes smooth and creamy. Gradually add the honey while continuing to whisk, ensuring that the two ingredients combine evenly into a thick, uniform mixture. Finally, add a pinch of cinnamon and mix well.
Once the mixture is ready, pour it into empty ice cube trays or any small molds of your choice. Silicone molds work particularly well. Place the molds in the freezer for about 30 minutes, or until the mixture has fully solidified. Once frozen, remove the cubes and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These homemade cough drops can be stored for up to two months.
How to use
When a cough starts to bother you, take one small piece and slowly let it dissolve in your mouth, just like a regular candy or lozenge. This allows the ingredients to coat the throat gradually and provide continuous relief. Use these natural cough drops up to three times a day. For best results, consume them slowly rather than chewing them quickly.
Additional benefits and tips
This remedy is especially helpful for dry, irritating coughs, nighttime coughing, and sore throats caused by colds or mild infections. Because it contains no artificial additives or harsh chemicals, it is generally gentler on the stomach and suitable for long-term use when needed.
However, it is important to remember that honey should not be given to children under one year of age. For older children and adults, this remedy can be a safe and effective alternative to many over-the-counter products.
In addition to using these natural cough drops, supporting your recovery with adequate rest, hydration, and warm fluids such as herbal teas can significantly improve results. Teas made from chamomile, thyme, ginger, or linden flowers pair particularly well with this remedy and further soothe the respiratory system.
This simple recipe is a perfect example of how traditional home remedies, passed down through generations, can remain effective even today. Sometimes, the most powerful medicine comes not from a pharmacy shelf, but from natural ingredients combined with care, knowledge, and experience.
