I don’t get sick often, but when I do, I prefer to let my body heal natural. I don’t immediately turn to medicine, I prefer to support my body in fighting the infection rather than take something that bypasses this natural process. BUT, with that being said, illnesses that include coughing can be exhausting and uncomfortable because it can make restful sleep almost impossible. In those cases, I use this herbal syrup to ease the coughing and get much needed rest.
It’s best to make this cough syrup before hand, so it’s ready when you need it. While you are at it, make fire cider and elderberry syrup too, for your winter wellness apothecary!
Benefits
Honey is awesome and naturally soothes coughs by itself. Ginger is naturally anti-inflammatory and has an expectorant action. Chamomile soothes muscles, making it useful in relieving the “tickle” in the throat, plus it promotes restful sleep. Marshmallow Root has one of the highest mucilaginous contents of all herbs and coats and soothes the throat. Chrysanthemum has antiviral properties and helps relieve congestion in the head which may be caused by viral infection. And cinnamon helps boost immune system and improve taste 😉 Only use this cough syrup on children over 1 year of age due to the honey!
Ingredients
- 1 quart of filtered water
- 1/4 cup Ginger Root (fresh grated or dried)
- 1/4 cup Chamomile Flowers
- 1/4 cup Marshmallow Root
- 1/8 cup Chrysanthemum Flowers
- 1/8 cup Slipper Elm Bark
- 2 tablespoons orange peel
- 1 tablespoon Cinnamon
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 cup honey
Instructions
- Pour the water into a medium saucepan and add the dried herbs
- Bring to a boil and then reduce to a simmer
- Simmer until the volume is reduced by about half
- Pour through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove herbs
- While liquid is still warm (not boiling) mix with lemon juice and honey and stir well
- Store in airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 months
