Many over-the-counter cough syrups have ingredients that some people would like to avoid. Holistic practitioners practice the art of "doctor as teacher," in which clients are given the tools to treat themselves and their families at home with ingredients that are commonly found in a household kitchen or herb garden. Making your own cough syrups can be an empowering and enjoyable pastime that has been practiced for thousands of years. As with any illness, it is important to consult with your health practitioner to rule out any more serious illness before embarking on any treatment.
Onion and Honey Cough Syrup
Crush 10 cloves of garlic and slice one large onion into rings. Place the onions and garlic into a deep bowl, cover with organic honey and let the mixture stand for 10 to 12 hours. Strain and take a tablespoon of this syrup four or five times a day. This recipe is not recommended for children under the age of 2 due to the risk of botulism associated with honey consumption.
Chinese Herbal Syrup for Coughs
Sang ju yin, a decoction of mulberry leaf and chrysanthemum, is a classic Chinese herbal cough treatment offered by modern doctors of Chinese medicine. Containing several other ingredients as well, it is available in prepared form and can be added to honey to create a syrup that you can take three times a day for up to three days. This mixture can also be added to water for an herbal tea to treat cough. Chinese herbs should be used under the advice and supervision of a medical practitioner familiar with their applied use.
Elderberry Syrup
Add 2 cups of fresh or 1 1/2 cups of dried elderberries to 2 cups of organic honey and two cloves of crushed garlic. Bring all ingredients to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring constantly. Strain the mixture and take as needed. As with all honey products, people who are allergic to bees or who are under the age of 2 should not consume honey-based syrups. Elderberries should only be consumed after cooking, as they do contain some toxins in their raw state.
Agave Nectar Cough Syrup
Used by people who are allergic to bees, or children under the age of 2, agave nectar can be used as an alternative cough syrup base. Combine 1 tbsp. of marshmallow and 2 tbsp. of licorice with 1 cup of chopped yellow onion and 1 tbsp. of crushed rosemary. Cover with warmed agave nectar and allow to steep for 24 hours. Take 1 tbsp. every four hours for up to three days. Consult your health care practitioner if your cough lasts longer than four days.
Zinc Lozenges
Studies done at Bastyr University show that if your diet is deficient in zinc you may become an easy mark for illness, including the discomfort of coughs. Zinc lozenges are believed to boost the immune system as well as being soothing for the sore throat associated with some coughs. Be sure to talk with your care provider if you suspect you may have strep throat, pneumonia or bronchitis, which must be treated with antibiotics.
References
- "Health & Wellness"; The SouthWestern Co.;1997
- "Healing With Whole Foods: Oriental Traditions and Modern Nutrition"; Paul Pitchford; 2002
