Maty's All Natural Cough Syrup: Result of a Mother's Determination

Carolyn Harrington's daughter, Maty, was born in 1996 and underwent three complex heart surgeries before the age of five. Maty's strict medical limitations and weakened immune system ruled out most over-the-counter products, so Carolyn devoted much time to researching natural, effective remedies to help her daughter. Maty is now a healthy 15 year-old, and Carolyn is a certified holistic health practitioner, trained in many aspects of natural medications. She originally created her natural cough syrup - based on the healing roots of yesteryear - and shared it with family and friends. The cough syrup's popularity grew and led to a line of five natural products available as of 2011 in various supermarkets and drugstores. It all started in 2009 with Maty's All Natural Cough Syrup.

What Is in Maty's All Natural Cough Syrup

The cough syrup starts with enriched antioxidant buckwheat honey, which - according to a study done at Penn State University - improves respiratory function and sleep quality. Nine immune-supportive ingredients are added:

• apple cider vinegar - promotes healthy mucous flow and provides immune support
• sea salt - contains trace minerals, neutralizes toxins in the body
• lemon peel and grapefruit seed extract - encourages natural detoxification
• cinnamon-promotes healthy breathing
• lemon balm - has a calming effect; mildly anti-viral
• cayenne pepper and marjoram - increases blood flow; improves circulation
• zinc gluconate - shortens duration of cold and provides immune support

The child-friendly version has one addition, a banana-caramel flavor. I actually think kids would be fine with the taste of the original syrup also.

What Isn't in Maty's All Natural Cough Syrup

The product is gluten free and dairy free. There are no artificial preservatives, color additives or sweeteners. There is no corn, dairy, soy, wheat or yeast. Since it's food-based, there are no harmful side effects.

Age Limit

It's noted on the package that this cough syrup is not recommended for children under the age of one, due to the honey. There is a testimonial on Maty's website that one parent received permission from her doctor to give the cough syrup to her 8-month old. Always check with your physician.

My Experience

My husband developed a nagging cough, so he first tried Maty's Natural Cough Syrup. His reaction was, "Wow, this doesn't even taste like medicine." I had the same reaction when I took it to alleviate a cough due to allergies. The taste is pleasant and sweet, and the consistency is similar to pancake syrup. Since my husband had already opened the bottle, the syrup had become slightly crystallized by the time I reopened it. I placed the bottle in a cup of warm water for a few minutes, as directed on the package. I shook the bottle and the consistency was quickly restored. The best part was that the coughing stopped.

Buying the Product

The product costs approximately $8.99 for a 4-ounce bottle. A portion of the proceeds goes to Vitamin Angels, an organization that provides nutritional supplements to needy children around the world. Visit Maty's website for a list of stores that carry Maty's All Natural Cough Syrup.

Other Products

In addition to the All Natural Cough Syrup and the All Natural Banana Flavored Cough Syrup, Maty's line includes Breathe Better Nasal Ointment, All Natural Baby Chest Rub and All Natural Vapor Rub.