Thyme Cough Syrup With Honey Lemon & Ginger DIY Recipe

This homemade thyme, lemon, ginger, and honey cough syrup blends fresh herbs and citrus with soothing sweetness to coat irritated throats and boost your immune system. When seasonal sniffles make their rounds, having a simple, all-natural remedy at hand can feel both comforting and practical. Beyond its soothing qualities, this DIY cough syrup is easy to make, and keeps well, making it a reliable go-to whenever a scratchy throat or nagging cough surfaces.
This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.
Pin for later

Why this Thyme Cough Syrup will benefit you
This homemade cough syrup has some pretty fantastic benefits. Here is a breakdown of just a few of the main benefits each ingredient gives you:
- Thyme:
- Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Can help with respiratory issues
- Lemon:
- High in Vitamin C, boosting immunity.
- Helps soothe sore throats.
- Ginger:
- Natural anti-inflammatory
- Known for its warming, soothing effect.
- Honey:
- Natural cough suppressant.
- Antibacterial and soothing for the throat.
Ingredients and Tools Needed to make Thyme and Honey Cough Syrup

- List of ingredients with measurements:
- ½ cup raw honey
- 1 lemon cut into half moon sliced
- handful of fresh thyme
- 1 inch ginger root sliced
- glass jar with airtight lid
- Tools required:
- Saucepan
- fine strainer
Step-by-Step Instructions to make Thyme Cough Syrup
Before starting, I like to ensure my jar is sterilized by pouring some boiling water into it and/or vinegar.
First, add the lemon slices to a clean jar and smoosh them down with a spoon.
Then, add the honey into the jar and stir. Make sure the honey completely covers the lemon.
Next, in a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a gentle boil. I like to use filtered water. Add the thyme and chopped ginger. Bring the herbs to a simmer and reduce by half.

Allow the tea to cool down slightly, then strain out the thyme and ginger and reserve the tea.

While the tea is still warm, pour it into the lemon/honey mixture and stir to incorporate everything.

Store your cough syrup in the fridge and use it within 1 month.

How to Use Your Thyme and Honey Cough Syrup
Adults can take with warm water or tea, or even a spoonful by itself as needed. Use it consistently during illness for best results..
Adjust the amount for children based on age.
It is not recommended to give honey to children under one year.
Customization and Variations
- Add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick to relieve congestion.
- Substitute honey with maple syrup for a vegan option.
- Optional additions like cinnamon or clove for enhanced flavor and benefits.
- Add a few drops of essential oil to boost immune system or for flavor.

Thyme Cough Syrup with lemon & ginger
Equipment
Ingredients
- ½ cup raw honey
- 1 lemon cut into half moon sliced
- handful of fresh thyme
- 1 inch ginger root sliced
- glass jar with airtight lid
Instructions
- Layer the lemon slices into the jar and smoosh using the back of a wooden spoon.
- Add honey and stir. Make sure the honey completely covers the lemon.
- In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of water to a boil. Add the thyme and chopped ginger. Bring the herbs to a simmer and reduce by half.
- Allow it to cool down slightly, strain out the thyme and ginger and reserve the tea.
- While the tea is still warm, pour it into the honey and stir to incorporate.
- Store in the fridge. Use within 1 month.
Before You Go, See What’s New

Dawn Goehring
Hi! I’m Dawn, the founder of Desert Naturals. My family , including my 2 teen boys, husband and myself, live in the southern California desert, I’m passionate about natural living and a life free of synthetics, dye’s, artificial fragrances, and other harmful ingredients. I love to use essential oils and natural ingredients for pretty much everything from natural remedies for my family, to non toxic cleaning for my home, to making my own DIY Beauty products, self care products, and more.




