Honey and Onions for Natural Cough Relief Recipes

Using Honey and Onions as Natural Cough Remedies

Honey and onions are two traditional home cure ingredients that can be highly effective at relieving coughs naturally. Both foods have antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties ideal for soothing sore throats and calming coughs.

Here's a look at how honey and onions work to combat coughs, evidence behind their abilities, the most effective preparation methods, and dosage recommendations. We'll also explore reasons to choose them over conventional cough medicine options.

How Can Honey Soothe a Cough?

Raw honey has a viscosity that naturally coats and soothes an irritated throat. It also fights infection with the following properties:

• Antibacterial effects against cough-causing bacteria
• Antifungal and antiviral qualities to boost immunity
• Anti-inflammatory action to ease swelling and discomfort
• High antioxidant content to promote healing

Research confirms honey often outperforms over-the-counter cough suppressants. Babies over age 1, children, and adults can all benefit from proper honey dosing.

How Do Onions Help Coughs?

Similar to honey, raw onions have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory components. They contain compounds like quercetin and allicin that loosen and thin out thick mucus in the airways that triggers coughing.

These beneficial phytochemicals also clear nasal congestion and may boost glutathione production to support immunity. Onions make an excellent pairing with honey for maximum cough relief potential.

Honey and Onion Syrup Recipe

One of the most effective ways to harness the combined power of honey and onions for coughs is making an herbal syrup. This remedy coats and soothes the throat while fighting infection and thinning mucus:

Ingredients

• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 cup honey
• 1 cup water

Directions

1. Combine chopped onion with water in a saucepan
2. Bring to a boil, then let simmer 10 minutes to infuse the onion into the liquid
3. Remove from heat and strain out the onion chunks
4. Stir in honey while liquid is still warm until thoroughly mixed
5. Refrigerate in an airtight container up to one month

Take 1-2 teaspoons as needed for coughs, or mix the honey-onion syrup with warm water or tea to drink. The powerful combination provides antibiotic, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory relief.

Other Ways to Use Honey and Onions

Onion and Honey Poultice

Applying raw onion and honey directly to your throat in a poultice maximizes the anti-inflammatory effects.

Chop or grate half an onion and stir together with 2 tablespoons raw honey until it reaches a paste-like consistency. Spread a thick layer of the mixture onto a soft cloth and apply to your neck and throat for 15-20 minutes. Repeat this 2-3 times daily to reduce swelling and irritation.

Hot Onion and Honey Tea

Sipping hot tea featuring honey and onions delivers powerful compounds directly to irritated tissues lining your throat and airways. The heat further reduces swelling and discomfort.

Simply brew a cup of black or herbal tea and stir in 2 teaspoons each minced raw onions and honey. The tangy, earthy flavor marries well with ginger, lemon, or mint tea varieties. Have a few cups a day to maximize the cough-fighting antioxidant dose.

Onion and Honey Soup Broth

Warm broth made from onions and honey supports the entire cough relief journey by:

• Thinning out mucus
• Coating and soothing the throat
• Hydrating tissues
• Delivering nutrients to heal damage

Gently cook down chopped onions in broth with garlic, herbs, and spices until soft. Remove from heat and mix in 1-2 tablespoons of honey until dissolved before drinking. Sip this mineral-rich concoction throughout the day to speed healing.

Dosage Recommendations

Honey Cough Guidelines

When using honey to calm coughs, follow these age-based dosage guidelines:

• Over age 1: Take up to 2 teaspoons (10mL) pure honey up to 3 times daily. More than this risks causing an upset stomach.
• Ages 2-5: Up to 1 teaspoon (5mL) honey 4 times daily is a safe and effective amount.
• Age 6 and older: Adults can take 1-2 tablespoons (15-30mL) pure honey every few hours for cough relief.

Onion Recommendations

No formal published guidelines exist for using onion to treat coughs. But the following daily amounts appear both safe and beneficial:

• Ages 4-6: 1-3 teaspoons (5-15mL) chopped raw onion
• Older children/teens: 1 tablespoon (15mL) chopped onion
• Adults: Up to 1/4 cup (60mL) chopped raw onion

Maximize benefits by pairing onion with equal parts honey in remedies like cough syrup, broths, teas, or poultices.

Precautions With Honey and Onion Remedies

When used appropriately, raw honey and onions make very safe, effective home cough remedies. But keep these precautions in mind:

• Never give honey to infants under 1 year due to botulism risk.
• Introduce new foods slowly to watch for rare allergic reactions.
• Discontinue if nausea, cramps, or worsening symptoms occur.
• Tell your doctor about any supplements or home remedies you're using.
• See your physician if symptoms last more than one week or make breathing difficult.

Assuming no complications or contraindications, both onions and honey can be very valuable additions to your at-home cough relief arsenal!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.