How to Make Homemade Cough Syrup

Cold season has begun and many will find themselves rushing to the pharmacy to purchase over-the-counter cough syrups. Most of these cough syrups contain extra ingredients that can be harmful to the body and are often not needed. Side effects of over-the-counter cough syrups are cold, clammy skin, irregular heartbeat, trouble breathing, hives or itchy skin. Making your own homemade cough lessens these side effects because it's natural without other synthetic ingredients and can save you money in the long run.

What You Will Need

In order to make your own homemade cough syrup, you will need to purchase several items. These items are a gallon glass jar with lid, 3 big lemons, 2 large onions, 32 oz bottle of honey, peppermint schnapps, and blackberry brandy. Use the brand of liquor of your choice because it's practically all the same.

Directions

The first thing you need to do is wash your gallon jug and lid with hot water to make sure it is clean, dry it and set it aside. Slice your three lemons into round discs and then do the same with the onions. Put a layer of lemons, about 6 slices, on the bottom of the jar. Place the same number of sliced onions on top of the lemon and repeat until you have three layers or have used all the lemons and onions. Next, pour your 32 ounce bottle of honey onto the lemons and onions. Use all of the honey. This will help to thicken the cough syrup and give it a sweet taste. Once you have added the honey to the jug, pour both bottles of liquor into the jug. For a gallon of this homemade cough syrup you will need both bottles. You do not have to stir the mixture. Place you lid on the jug tightly and store in a cool place. This homemade cough syrup will last for at least a year.

Dosage

Homemade cough syrup has about the same amount of alcohol as over-the-counter cough syrup. Adults should take 1 Tblsp every 4 to 6 hours, while children should take about a ¼ of a teaspoon every 6 to 12 hours. Because of the alcohol you may experience drowsiness so it's important that you do not take over the recommended dosage. Most importantly, keep the jar of cough syrup out of the reach of small children to prevent over dosage.