This homemade cough syrup uses just two simple, natural ingredients. It’s a time-tested home remedy for colds, coughs and sore throats that can help soothe symptoms and support recovery for both children and adults.
When my oldest daughter was a toddler she started with a new nanny and, although the care was wonderful, she began getting sick more often because she was around more children. As a former elementary school teacher, I know that being around groups of kids often means increased exposure to germs.
From October through April of that year she seemed to fall ill every month with ear infections, colds and persistent coughs. After a few rounds of antibiotics we began questioning frequent medication and looked for gentle, natural alternatives. That’s when we learned to make this simple onion-and-honey cough syrup.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Cough Medicine
- Traditional and time-tested: This remedy comes from family tradition. My parents brought home many home remedies from Mexico that have been passed down through generations.
- For children and adults: I’ve used this remedy successfully for my children and for adults in the family.
- Only two common ingredients: You only need red onion and honey—ingredients most households already have.
- Quick and easy: Prep takes under five minutes; let it rest a couple of hours and the syrup forms naturally.
Always consult your doctor before trying new remedies, especially for small children.
The Ingredients
- Honey: Many pediatricians recommend honey as a safe, natural cough suppressant for children over one year old. Honey coats and soothes sore throats, has antimicrobial properties, and tastes pleasant. IMPORTANT: Do not give honey to children under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism.
- Red onion: Onions offer natural antimicrobial qualities and supply vitamin C and antioxidants. Red onions have notably higher antioxidant content than yellow or white varieties. When combined with honey, the onion releases juices that form a sweet, soothing syrup.
See the recipe card below for quantities and detailed instructions.
How to Make Homemade Cough Medicine
1. Prep the onion
- Slice one red onion into thin layers.
- Place the sliced onion in a deep, wide bowl so the pieces are exposed and easy to cover with honey.
2. Add the honey
- Pour 1 cup of honey over the sliced red onion, covering as much of it as possible.
3. Allow to rest
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or foil and let it sit for about 2 hours.
- During this time the onion will release a thin, sweet syrup that collects at the bottom of the bowl.
How to Serve
For children over one year, give one teaspoon of the syrup every 2–4 hours as needed. For adults, take one tablespoon every 2–4 hours. You can use it more frequently if necessary to soothe a persistent cough. Continue until symptoms improve.
How to Store
Transfer the entire mixture—onions and syrup—to a glass jar or other airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The syrup is most soothing at room temperature but will keep longer when chilled. Discard immediately if you notice mold, an off smell, or other signs of spoilage.
Tips and Variations
- The onion will continue to generate syrup as it sits. If you finish the batch, it’s quick and easy to make another.
- The flavor is mildly sweet; the onion taste is subtle and most children find it acceptable.
FAQ
This simple onion-and-honey syrup is a traditional remedy passed down through generations. Many people find it helpful for soothing coughs, sore throats and colds and for shortening recovery time when used alongside rest and proper care.
It is suitable for toddlers and children over one year old. Do not use honey for children under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism. Always check with your pediatrician before giving remedies to young children.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Discard if it shows any signs of spoilage.
I hope you find this remedy helpful.
Please leave a comment if you try this or tag @everydaylatina on Instagram.
More Recipes
Try another way to use red onions: Tangy and Sweet Pickled Red Onions.
Recipe
Homemade Cough Syrup
by Gemma Aguayo-Murphy
Equipment
- Knife
- Air-tight container or glass jar
Ingredients
- 1 red onion
- 1 cup honey
Instructions
- Slice a whole red onion into thin layers.
- Place the sliced onion in a deep, wide bowl so pieces are exposed.
- Pour the honey over the onion, covering it as much as possible.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or foil and let it sit for about 2 hours.
- After two hours you’ll see a watery syrup collect at the bottom of the bowl.
- Give children (over 1 year) one teaspoon every 2–4 hours. Adults can take one tablespoon every 2–4 hours.
- Continue until symptoms subside. Transfer the mixture to a sealed jar and refrigerate or keep at room temperature for short-term use.
Notes
- Do not give honey to children under 12 months.
- Consult your doctor before trying remedies, especially for young children.
- The onion will continue to produce syrup as it sits—simply make more if needed.
- Store on the countertop up to 3 days or in the refrigerator up to 5 days. Discard if spoiled.
Originally published November 29, 2018. Updated post and photos February 2023.