Homemade Cough Drops are an easy and natural way to soothe a scratchy throat during seasonal changes. Whenever the weather changes from hot to cold or temperatures fluctuate throughout the day, many people experience cough, throat irritation, sneezing, or congestion. I like to keep these simple homemade cough drops ready because they are made with natural ingredients like honey, ginger, lemon, cloves, and cinnamon.
These homemade throat lozenges are quick to prepare and perfect to keep in your kitchen whenever you need a comforting remedy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and quick to make.
- Made with natural ingredients.
- Perfect for soothing an itchy or scratchy throat.
- Convenient to store and use when needed.
- Great for the winter season.
Ingredients
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ to ⅓ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Coating
- ⅓ cup icing sugar (powdered sugar) or cornflour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How to Make Homemade Herbal Cough Drops
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
First, take a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Add the granulated sugar, water, fresh lemon juice, ground ginger, ground cloves, and ground cinnamon. Do not add the honey at this stage.
Mix the ingredients well before placing the pan over medium heat.
Step 2: Cook the Syrup
Cook the mixture until it reaches the hard crack stage (approximately 150°C or 300°F). This usually takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on the size of the pan and the heat level.
Step 3: Prepare Your Work Surface
Meanwhile, line a baking tray with parchment paper and grease it lightly. Alternatively, you may use a clean marble slab, which helps the cough drops cool more quickly.
Step 4: Test the Consistency
To check whether the mixture is ready, drop a small amount into a bowl of ice-cold water. If it hardens immediately and cracks when pressed, it has reached the correct stage.
Step 5: Add the Honey
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully stir in the honey and mix well.
Step 6: Shape the Cough Drops
Using a spoon, carefully drop small portions of the mixture onto the prepared baking tray or marble slab. Leave enough space between each drop.
Allow the cough drops to cool completely for about 10–15 minutes.
Step 7: Coat and Store
Once the cough drops have cooled and hardened, toss them gently in the powdered sugar and cinnamon mixture. This prevents them from sticking together.
Store them in an airtight container in a cool and dry place.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy one cough drop whenever you have an itchy or scratchy throat.
- Keep them handy during the winter season.
- Pack a few while travelling.
Helpful Tip
For extra comfort, dissolve two or three homemade cough drops in a cup of hot water and sip slowly. This soothing drink may help relieve throat irritation and provide temporary comfort during cold weather.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight.
- Consume within three to four weeks for the best flavour and texture.
Important Note
These homemade cough drops are intended for comfort and soothing minor throat irritation. They are not a substitute for medical treatment. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
Yes, although ground ginger works better for achieving a smooth texture in cough drops.
Can I use cornflour instead of powdered sugar?
Absolutely. Cornflour helps prevent the cough drops from sticking together.
Can I make these without honey?
Yes. However, honey adds both flavour and soothing properties to the recipe.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cooling Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 40–50 cough drops
- Course: Homemade Remedy
- Cuisine: International