When a cough strikes, reaching for a natural remedy can be just as effective (if not more so) than over-the-counter medicine. This Homemade Honey Cough Syrup is a tried-and-true remedy that’s easy to make, ready in as little as 24 hours, and packed with ingredients known for their soothing and healing properties.

With honey as the star ingredient, combined with garlic, red onion, rosemary, and cinnamon, this syrup helps ease coughs, soothe sore throats, and support overall recovery from colds. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore the benefits of each ingredient. I also share the different types of honey you can use and how they enhance this syrup’s effectiveness.

mason jar labeled and full of homemade cough syrup

Ingredients and Their Benefits

Each ingredient in this honey cough syrup has been carefully selected for its medicinal properties:

Honey (24 oz, plus more as needed):
- Acts as a natural cough suppressant and throat soother.
- Contains antimicrobial properties that help fight infections.
- Coats the throat to reduce irritation and provide immediate relief.
Garlic (1 large bulb):
- Packed with allicin, a compound with antiviral and antibacterial properties.
- Boosts the immune system and helps clear respiratory infections.
Red Onion (1 large):
- Contains quercetin, an antioxidant known to reduce inflammation and congestion.
- Helps break down mucus and ease respiratory discomfort.
Rosemary (20g, 3-4 stalks):
- Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Aids in opening airways and improving respiratory function.
Cinnamon Sticks (2-3):
- Contains cinnamaldehyde, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
- Provides warmth and comfort while reducing inflammation.

ingredients to make honey cough syrup shown are cinnamon sticks garlic cloves onion a jar of raw honey and rosemary stalks

Types of Honey to Use and Their Benefits

The type of honey you use can enhance the benefits of this cough syrup. Here are a few options:

Raw Honey:
- Unprocessed and contains all its natural enzymes, vitamins, and minerals.
- Provides powerful antimicrobial properties to help combat colds.
Manuka Honey:
- Sourced from New Zealand, it contains high levels of methylglyoxal, a compound known for its strong antibacterial activity.
- Ideal for fighting infections and soothing severe sore throats.
Local Honey:
- Helps reduce seasonal allergies by exposing your body to small amounts of local pollen.
- Supports local beekeepers and often tastes fresher and more flavorful.

When picking honey, make sure it’s from a trusted source to ensure it’s pure and unprocessed. Keep in mind that honey is naturally sweet, so it’s best to use it in moderation, especially if you have diabetes or other health conditions. If you’re unsure whether this syrup is right for you, consult your healthcare provider.

How to Make Homemade Honey And Onion Cough Syrup

Prepare Ingredients: Peel and crush the garlic cloves, slice the red onion, and gently bruise the rosemary to release its oils.
Combine Ingredients: In a clean jar, layer the garlic, onion, rosemary, and cinnamon sticks. Pour honey over the ingredients, ensuring everything is fully submerged. Add more honey if needed.
Infuse: Seal the jar with a lid and let the mixture sit on your countertop for 24 hours or up to 4 days days. Shake the mixture a couple times a day (if you remember) to ensure even infusion.
Strain and Store: After 1-3 days, strain the syrup into a clean jar, making sure to press the solid ingredients to get out as much honey as possible. Discard the solids and store the syrup in a the fridge. It can last for up to 2 months.
Usage: Take 1 tablespoon as needed to relieve coughs or soothe a sore throat.

day one of fermenting 36 ounce mason jar filled with rosemary onion garlic cinnamon and honey to make honey cough syrup — All Ingredients Mixed Together To Infuse

day two of fermenting 36 ounce mason jar filled with rosemary onion garlic cinnamon and honey to make honey cough syrup — After 24 Hours

Keep It Simple Or Jazz It Up (Substitution Options)

The key ingredients for this homemade cough syrup are honey and onion. If that is all you have available you can still make and reap the benefits of this homemade cough syrup. Here are a few substitutions/add-ons:

Cloves: add 3-5 cloves
Thyme: Add 3-5 stalks of fresh thyme
Sage: Add 3-5 stalks of fresh sage
Star Anise: Add 3-5
Ground Turmeric: Add 1-2 teaspoons

honey onion garlic cough syrup in a mason jar

How Much Honey Cough Syrup To Take

Adults: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon as needed

Children 10 years and younger: 1/2 teaspoon – 1 teaspoon

Children/infants under 1: DO NOT GIVE. Babies’ digestive systems aren’t fully developed, making them more vulnerable to harmful bacteria found in honey. These bacteria can produce toxins that cause botulism, a serious illness. To keep your baby safe, it’s best to avoid giving them honey until after their first birthday.

The best way to take the honey cough syrup

Gently sip the syrup from the spoon, letting it coat your throat. Try to let a little reach the back of your throat where your nasal passages drain. Make sure to stir or shake the syrup before using it, as the ingredients can settle over time.

Why This Syrup Works for Coughs and Colds

This honey cough syrup combines the benefits of natural ingredients to create a powerful remedy:

Soothes and Coats the Throat: Honey and cinnamon provide an immediate soothing effect on irritated throats.
Fights Infection: Garlic, onion, and honey’s antimicrobial properties help eliminate the pathogens causing your symptoms.
Reduces Inflammation: Rosemary, cinnamon, and onion reduce inflammation in the respiratory system, helping ease coughing fits.
Breaks Down Mucus: The quercetin in onions and the warmth of cinnamon help break down mucus, making it easier to breathe.

a small 2 ounce mason jar of homemade cough syrup and a larger jar in the background — I like to take a small 2 ounce bottle of this homemade honey cough syrup with me when I travel. Perfect for having a natural remedy on hand.

FAQs About Homemade Honey Cough Syrup

How long does this syrup last?

When stored in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two months.

Can children use this syrup?

This syrup is safe for children over the age of one. Never give honey to infants under one year old due to the risk of botulism.

Can I skip the garlic if I don’t like the taste?

While garlic is a key ingredient for its antimicrobial properties, you can omit it if necessary. The syrup will still be effective, though slightly less potent.

Can I use a different sweetener instead of honey?

Honey is essential for this recipe due to its antimicrobial and soothing properties. Alternative sweeteners won’t provide the same benefits.