This homemade cough syrup is simple, natural, and effective. With just a handful of ingredients, many of which you likely already have in your pantry, you can create a soothing remedy to help ease the misery of cold and flu season.

It seems like once November hits, there is always a bug of some sort going around everywhere. From Indiana to Florida to Montana, we have friends and family battling colds, coughs, and itchy throats.

While we do our best to boost our immune systems with things like homemade fire cider and elderberry syrup, sometimes you need something a little extra to calm a nagging cough or itchy throat. That's where this homemade cough syrup comes in.

Yes, we could easily pick up an over priced, artificially flavored, colored, and sweetened over-the-counter medicine. But whenever possible, I prefer to use food and natural remedies to heal.

This isn’t to say conventional medicine doesn’t have its place—it absolutely does. But for everyday symptoms, a natural approach often works just as well, sometimes even better.

Thankfully, this homemade cough syrup helps control cold symptoms without all the artificial additives. It’s a win-win.

Why Make Homemade Cough Syrup?

This recipe is simple to prepare and contains ingredients you likely already have on hand. Not only does it taste better than store-bought alternatives, but it’s also less expensive—even with a couple of pricier ingredients.

Store-bought cough syrups have never appealed to me. The taste is unpleasant, the ingredients are questionable, and they only mask symptoms rather than support recovery. This homemade version, on the other hand, is effective, natural, easy to make, and actually helps you recover.

Ingredients in Homemade Cough Syrup

Apple Cider Vinegar: Raw, unfiltered ACV with “the mother” contains probiotics and immune-boosting properties.

Raw Honey: Local, raw honey is best. It soothes the throat, calms a cough, and may have cold-fighting properties. (Note: Do not give honey to infants under one year of age.)

Bourbon: This optional ingredient helps you relax and get restful sleep. You can substitute cognac, rum, or whiskey, or omit it entirely if you prefer. Alcohol is often included in over-the-counter syrups for its sedative properties.

Cayenne Pepper: Contains capsaicin, known for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and cough-reducing effects. Organic is best, as peppers are on the Dirty Dozen list.

Ginger: Fresh ginger is ideal. Combined with honey, it creates a strong antimicrobial effect to support recovery.

Fresh Thyme: Known for its respiratory benefits, thyme adds an herbal boost to the syrup.

Lemon: Adds a refreshing citrus flavor while providing a dose of vitamin C and antimicrobial properties.

Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and helps support circulation and immune function.

How to Make Homemade Cough Syrup

Prepare the Thyme Tea: Add 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme to ½ cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 20 minutes, then strain.

Macerate the Lemons: Place a sliced lemon in the raw honey. Allow it to sit while the thyme tea steeps, letting the honey draw out the lemon’s juices.

Mix the Spices: Add ¼ teaspoon each of ground cinnamon and cayenne pepper, as well as freshly grated ginger, to the strained thyme tea. Stir well.

Combine the Ingredients: Pour the thyme tea mixture into the apple cider vinegar. Stir, then add this mixture to the honey and lemon slices.

Add the Bourbon: Stir in 2 tablespoons of bourbon (optional). Mix thoroughly.

Store and Use: Pour the finished syrup into a clean jar. Shake well before each use. Store in the refrigerator for up to one month.

How to Use Homemade Cough Syrup

Take 1-2 teaspoons every two to three hours as needed to control coughing and soothe a sore throat.

Shake well before each use to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Why this Cough Syrup Works

Each ingredient in this syrup is carefully chosen for its natural benefits:

Apple Cider Vinegar: Breaks up mucus and supports the immune system.

Honey: Soothes and coats the throat while offering antimicrobial properties.

Bourbon: Encourages relaxation and restful sleep.

Cayenne Pepper: Reduces inflammation and promotes circulation.

Ginger: Combines with honey for a powerful antimicrobial effect.

Thyme: Supports respiratory health and relieves congestion.

Lemon: Adds vitamin C and a refreshing tang.

Cinnamon: Adds warmth and further immune support.

This homemade cough syrup is a simple, natural remedy that truly works. It’s easy to make, tastes delicious, and provides relief without the artificial additives of store-bought options. Whether you’re soothing a sore throat, calming a cough, or just looking for a natural alternative, this syrup can do it.

More Natural Remedies to Try This Winter:

• Herbal Infused Honey for Winter Wellness
• Fermented Honey Garlic
• Four Thieves Vinegar Recipe and Uses

If you try this homemade cough syrup, I’d love to hear about it in the comments below! Don’t forget to leave a recipe review on the recipe card and tag me on Instagram with your creations @therusticelk. You can also follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more natural recipes and remedies.