Thyme and Honey Cough Syrup Recipe

This thyme cough syrup recipe provides natural relief for coughs.  Made with thyme, water, and honey, this recipe uses easy to find ingredients and is easy to make at home.  

Thyme Cough Syrup Recipe

There are few things worse than a lingering cough.  It wears you out and can last for days after you've been sick. 

Thyme is often used for a natural cough remedy to lessen the severity of a cough.  It's available in an over the counter product, and you can also make your own at home.

I also have two cough syrup kits with a blend of herbs and spices to make your own cough syrup.

Why Thyme Stands Out Among Herbal Ingredients

Thyme is no ordinary herb. Known primarily for its culinary charm, this aromatic plant has a long history as a medicinal powerhouse. 

Its impressive portfolio of antimicrobial, antitussive (cough-suppressing), and expectorant (mucus-clearing) properties sets it apart from other natural remedies. 

Where some ingredients may address one symptom, thyme takes a holistic approach, tackling the root causes of coughs while supporting overall respiratory health.  

In one thyme for cough study, thyme was shown to reduce both the severity and frequency of coughs.  In addition, both thyme and honey show promising results for reducing post viral cough symptoms.

Additionally, thyme has a natural ability to relax the respiratory muscles and thin mucus, facilitating easier breathing. This dual action—reducing inflammation and clearing airways—makes thyme a standout remedy for both acute and chronic respiratory issues.  

Benefits of Thyme Cough Syrup  

Here are some benefits of cough syrup with thyme:

• Thyme cough syrup offers a cleaner, gentler alternative to over-the-counter medications that often come with a laundry list of side effects. Free from synthetic additives and alcohols, it delivers effective relief without inducing drowsiness or dryness—two common complaints with conventional cough medicines.  
• While its primary role is to soothe coughs, thyme syrup offers broader respiratory support. It can ease symptoms of bronchitis, clear sinus congestion, and even calm a sore throat. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an ally in managing conditions like asthma or seasonal allergies.  
• Thyme is rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and flavonoids, which play a key role in strengthening the immune system. These compounds help the body fend off future infections, making thyme syrup as much a preventative tonic as it is a treatment.  
• With appropriate adjustments in formulation, thyme syrup is safe for all ages. Milder versions can soothe children’s coughs, providing parents with a natural alternative to store-bought syrups loaded with sugars or alcohols.    
• Thymol serves as a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent, calming irritated airways and reducing the urge to cough. Its ability to combat infection at the source ensures longer-lasting relief, especially when dealing with bacterial or viral respiratory issues.  
• One of thyme’s standout traits is its expectorant quality. By loosening thick mucus, it makes it easier for the body to expel congestion. This not only provides immediate relief but also prevents mucus buildup, which can lead to secondary infections.  

Ingredients

The amounts are listed below in the recipe card

Thyme.  I used fresh thyme, but you can also use dried thyme.  I recommend  buying a high quality thyme, preferably organic. 

 

Honey.  Honey is not merely a flavor enhancer—it’s a natural healer. Known for its antibacterial properties, honey coats the throat, reducing irritation and suppressing the cough reflex. When paired with thyme, it amplifies the syrup’s soothing effects.  I recommend using raw honey.

Optional Additions: Ginger, Clove, and Cinnamon.  Spices like ginger, clove, and cinnamon not only enhance flavor but bring their own therapeutic benefits. Ginger combats inflammation, clove provides antimicrobial support, and cinnamon promotes circulation, creating a comprehensive remedy for respiratory ailments.  

Directions

Step #1

In a small saucepan, add boiling water and dried thyme.  Let sit for 40 minutes.

Step #2

Strain the thyme out using cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer.  Save the herbal water.

Step #3

Add the honey and stir until combined.  If the honey is not incorporating, you can heat the water slightly to mix the honey.

    

Additional Information

• Take 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon as needed.
• This recipe should not be used by children under 1 due to the honey.
• Makes 14 ounces of thyme cough syrup if you use 1/2 cup honey.
• This will last for 3 weeks in the fridge if you use 1/2 cup honey.  If you use 2 cups of honey, it will last for a year in the fridge.

Don't want to make your own cough medicine with thyme?  Try a thyme tincture.

Try one of these herbal remedies for cough and cold:

• How to Make Elderberry Gummies
• Honey and Onion Cough Syrup Recipe
• Oil of Oregano Tincture
• How to Make Oil of Oregano
• How to Make Vapor Rub

Like this post?  Pin it!