If you’re searching for a gentle, natural remedy for coughs and cold symptoms, try this Honey & Onion Cough Syrup. It’s an easy homemade remedy made from just three simple, wholesome ingredients.
Cold and cough viruses aren’t limited to winter—spring can bring them too. As a parent, I prefer natural, minimally processed options to support my family’s wellbeing. This honey and onion syrup is a simple, preservative-free choice compared with many store-bought cough medicines that include added sugars, artificial colors, and other additives.
This syrup combines time-honored ingredients: honey, which has been used for generations for its soothing, antimicrobial and antioxidant qualities, and onions and garlic, which have traditional and studied uses for respiratory support and immune-boosting nutrients.
Honey and Onion Syrup Benefits
This article is for informational purposes and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Honey is widely recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and can help soothe throat irritation and reduce coughing in both children and adults. Important safety note: do not give honey to infants under one year old.
Onions have been used traditionally for respiratory symptoms and contain vitamin C, antioxidants, and compounds with antibacterial qualities. Garlic adds complementary properties, with a long history of use for supporting immune health.
Ingredients
You’ll need just three basic ingredients:
- Raw, unfiltered organic honey: Use raw honey if possible to preserve beneficial enzymes and compounds.
- Onions: Three small onions (about three cups chopped).
- Garlic: One clove, thinly sliced.
See the recipe card below for exact amounts, timings, and nutritional details.
Variations
- Fresh herbs: Add chopped thyme or sage for extra aromatic and microbial-supportive qualities.
- Ginger: Fresh ginger brings antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits and blends well with honey.
- Cinnamon: A warming spice that can act as an expectorant and pairs nicely with honey.
- Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds vitamin C and brightens the flavor.
How to Make Honey & Onion Cough Syrup
Prepare the produce first: peel and slice the onions, cutting them in half, and thinly slice the garlic.
Step 1: Prep the ingredients. Chop the onions and thinly slice the garlic.
Step 2: Combine the onions, garlic, and honey in a small saucepan, stirring so the solids are well coated.
Step 3: Cook gently over low heat for about one hour, or until the onion and garlic are soft and fragrant. Stir every 20 minutes to prevent sticking and to allow flavors to meld.
Step 4: Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, pressing gently to extract the infused honey while leaving the solids behind.
Step 5: Store the strained syrup in airtight glass jars. Let cool to room temperature before sealing.
Expert Tips
- Maintain the ratio: Stick to an even ratio of onions to honey by cups (for example, 3 cups onions to 3 cups honey) to achieve a balanced flavor and texture.
- Cool before sealing: Allow the syrup to cool fully before putting lids on jars to prevent condensation.
- Refrigerate: Store the version with onions and garlic in the jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. If you strain out the solids, the syrup can last in the refrigerator for up to three months.
Recipe FAQs
Take one teaspoon every two hours when a cough begins, then use as needed. Adjust for personal tolerance and age—remember honey is not safe for children under one year.
Yellow or white onions are recommended because they provide a mild, slightly sweet flavor that blends well with honey. Red onions can be stronger and may overpower the syrup.
More Recipes with Honey
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Honey Roasted Parsnips
-
Homemade Cornbread With Honey and Buttermilk
-
Honey Butter Skillet Corn
-
Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts
If you try this syrup, please consider leaving a rating in the recipe card and sharing your experience in the comments. I enjoy seeing photos—tag @freshcoasteats if you post your results on social media.
Onion Cough Syrup
Ingredients
- 3 small onions
- 1 clove garlic
- 3 cups raw, unfiltered organic honey
Instructions
- Prepare the onions and garlic: peel, slice, and halve the onions; thinly slice the garlic.
- Combine the onions, garlic, and honey in a small saucepan, stirring until everything is coated.
- Cook on low for about 1 hour, stirring every 20 minutes, until the onion and garlic are softened and fragrant.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer, transfer the syrup to airtight jars, and allow to cool before sealing.
Notes
- Use an even ratio: Keep an even cup ratio of onions to honey, such as 3:3, for consistent results.
- Cool completely: Let the syrup reach room temperature before sealing jars.
- Storage: Keep the syrup with solids in the refrigerator for up to one week. If strained, store refrigerated for up to three months.
Nutrition
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Carbohydrates: 6 g
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Sugar: 6 g