Homemade Amish Cough Syrup Recipe (Kids & Adults) (2024)

Last Updated on April 26, 2024 by Kiersten James

Prepare a batch of this homemade Amish cough syrup recipe to combat colds, flu, whooping cough, and RSV this season.

Homemade Amish Cough Syrup Recipe Ingredients

This Amish cough syrup recipe contains 4 simple ingredients, 3 of which pack a powerful medicinal punch – raw honey, flaxseed, lemon, and filtered water.

Raw Honey: Honey is one nature’s magical gifts that not only tastes delicious but also packs a punch when it comes to medicinal properties. Here are some ways honey is a superstar during cold and flu season:

1. Natural Cough Suppressant: Honey is well-known for its cough-suppressing properties. In fact, it’s often as effective as some over-the-counter cough medicines. It coats the throat, which can reduce the irritation and the urge to cough.
2. Soothes Sore Throats: If you’ve got a sore or scratchy throat that is making you cough, honey is like a soothing balm. It can help reduce irritation and provide temporary relief, which is particularly helpful before bedtime.
3. Antibacterial Properties: Honey has natural antibacterial qualities. This means it can help fight bacterial infections, which can be beneficial if your cough is due to a bacterial cause.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The anti-inflammatory properties of honey can help reduce swelling and inflammation, particularly in the throat, which often accompanies a cough or a cold.
5. Rich in Antioxidants: Honey is packed with antioxidants, which help in boosting the immune system. A stronger immune system can better fight off infections that cause coughs.
6. Soothing Effect: The texture and consistency of honey make it naturally soothing. It can be more pleasant and calming to consume, especially for children, compared to conventional medicines.
7. Helps with Sleep: Coughing at night can severely disrupt sleep – especially for kids with RSV or whooping cough. Honey can help suppress the coughing reflex, thereby aiding in a more restful night.

Flaxseed: Flaxseed is one of my go-to natural remedies, especially for coughs and colds with the kids. These tiny brown seeds are packed with benefits making it an obvious choice for any homemade cough syrup. Here’s why:

1. Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Flaxseeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These healthy fats are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation often associated with colds and coughs.
2. High in Antioxidants: Flaxseeds are rich in lignans, which have both plant estrogen and antioxidant qualities. These antioxidants help in boosting the immune system, which is vital when you’re fighting off a cold.
3. Mucilage Gums: Flaxseeds contain mucilage, a type of soluble fiber that becomes gel-like when mixed with water. This mucilage can coat and soothe the throat, providing almost instant relief for pesky cough and sore throat symptoms.
4. Natural Cough Suppressant: Saving the best for last, flaxseed contains natural properties that act as a natural cough suppressant reducing the urge to cough, which is especially helpful during nighttime.

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Lemon: Lemon is also a fantastic, natural remedy for coughs and a great example of using simple, everyday ingredients for health benefits. Here’s how lemon helps when dealing with coughs:

1. Vitamin C Boost: Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, which is known for its immune-boosting properties. A strong immune system is better at fighting off the viruses and bacteria that cause coughs.
2. Antioxidant Properties: The antioxidants in lemon help fight off free radicals in the body, which can reduce inflammation and swelling, particularly in the throat during a cough.
3. Throat Soothing: Lemon juice can help relieve irritation in the throat associated with coughing, thanks to its natural soothing properties.
4. Increases Saliva Production: Lemon juice stimulates saliva production, which can help keep the throat moist, easing discomfort and potentially reducing the urge to cough.
5. Aids in Mucus Breakdown: The acidity of lemon can help break down mucus, making it easier to expel and thereby reducing coughs that are caused by postnasal drip.
6. Balances Body’s pH Levels: Although acidic, lemons are alkaline-forming in the body. This can help restore the body’s pH balance, promoting overall health and supporting the immune system.

How to Make Homemade Amish Cough Syrup

Ingredients

• 3 cups filtered water
• 1 cup whole flaxseed
• 1 lemon thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons raw honey

Instructions

Simmer the lemon and flaxseed in filtered water on the stove for 4 hours. Stir occasionally to agitate the syrup.

Pour the syrup through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a glass mixing cup or medium sized bowl. Press the flaxseed and lemon with the back of a spoon or wooden spatula to help release any retained liquid.

When the syrup has cooled to room temperature, whisk in the honey.

Pour into a clean glass bottle (a funnel makes this easier) and store in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. Shake before using.

How to Use Homemade Amish Cough Syrup

Kids: 1 teaspoon every 4 hours. Add an additional teaspoon for severe coughing fits as with whooping cough (pertussis) or RSV.

Adults: 1 tablespoon every 4 hours. Also adding an additional dose for severe coughing fits.

If started at the very onset of an illness, it is an effective remedy to wipe out the cold or cough in 4 to 5 days time. Do not exceed 1 cup per day.

*Do not give to babies under 12 months in age due to the raw honey content and risk of botulism.

More Cold & Flu Home Remedies

Fermented Garlic Honey

Pine Needle Tea (Safe for Kids)

Amish Cough Syrup

Yield: 8 ounces

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Additional Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Total Time: 4 hours 40 minutes

Difficulty: Easy

Materials

• 3 cups filtered water
• 1 cup whole flaxseed
• 1 lemon thinly sliced
• 4 tablespoons raw honey

Tools

• Small sauce pan
• Glass jar or bottle for storage
• Stainless steel funnel (optional)

Instructions

1. Simmer the lemon and flaxseed in filtered water on the stove for 4 hours. Stir occasionally to agitate the syrup.

1. Pour the syrup bowl through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a glass mixing cup or medium sized bowl.
2. Press the flaxseed and lemon with the back of a spoon or wooden spatula to help release any retained liquid.
3. When the syrup has cooled to room temperature, whisk in the honey.
4. Pour into a clean glass bottle (a funnel makes this easier) and store in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.
5. Shake before using.

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This information is intended for educational purposes only. The content created for www.naturalhomeapothecary.com has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.Consult your healthcare provider for personal healthcare decision making guidance.