Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to support the body’s natural healing processes. One such remedy, kitchen spice cough syrup, uses common herbs like thyme to soothe coughs, clear congestion, and ease respiratory discomfort.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris), a close relative of oregano, is packed with essential oils such as thymol, known for their antimicrobial properties. Studies have shown thyme to be effective against various bacteria, particularly those causing respiratory infections. Beyond its antimicrobial action, thyme also acts as an expectorant, helping to expel mucus, while its antispasmodic and broncho-dilating effects ease breathing. Additionally, thyme’s warming and drying qualities make it a popular remedy for clearing sinus congestion during cold and flu season.
Thyme has long been trusted by herbalists for supporting both upper and lower respiratory health.
Whether used as a tea, gargle, or steam, this versatile herb helps to soothe the body and alleviate symptoms. When dealing with a dry cough, thyme can be combined with moisturizing herbs like licorice root (be mindful of blood pressure concerns), plantain leaf or violet aerial parts to avoid further drying out the throat.
You can easily harvest thyme from your garden and use it fresh or dried. For a simple herbal tea, steep 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in hot water. Add honey and lemon for an extra soothing touch.
Safety Tip: Pregnant individuals should only use thyme in small culinary amounts.
Homemade Kitchen Spice Cough Syrup Recipe
This simple cough syrup recipe combines thyme and other common kitchen spices to help soothe coughs and support your immune system during cold and flu season.
Ingredients:
- ⅓ cup dried thyme (or ½ cup fresh)
- ⅛ cup of anise, fennel, or cardamom seeds
- 1 cup of water
- ½ to 2 cups of raw honey (depending on preferred shelf life)
Directions:
- Boil water in a saucepan.
- Add thyme and your chosen spice (anise, fennel, or cardamom) to the hot water.
- Cover and let the herbs steep for 20-40 minutes to create a concentrated infusion.
- Strain the liquid and return it to the saucepan.
- Add honey (the more honey, the longer the syrup lasts). If using ½ cup of honey, the syrup lasts 3 weeks when refrigerated; if using 2 cups, it can last up to 1 year.
- Warm the mixture slightly (don’t exceed 110°F) to mix the honey and infusion.
- Transfer the syrup into a sanitized, airtight jar (a dark jar helps preserve freshness).
- Label the jar and refrigerate it.
- Take 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of the syrup as needed.
This homemade syrup can be adjusted based on your preferences. You can swap half the thyme for soothing demulcent herbs like licorice or fenugreek to help with dry coughs. If interested, make sure to check our 5 powerful home remedies for eliminating excess mucus from your system.
Note: This syrup is not suitable for children under 1 year old due to the raw honey.
By keeping this simple kitchen cough syrup on hand, you can have an effective, natural remedy ready to support your respiratory system during cold and flu season.
