Embracing Fall: A Season of Change and Preparedness
As the summer days wane and the crispness of fall begins to settle in, children are returning to school, and the vibrant leaves transform into stunning hues of red, orange, and gold. With this beautiful transition, however, comes the unwelcome arrival of colds and flu. We brace ourselves for the sniffles, sneezes, congestion, and the unpleasant postnasal drip that can make life uncomfortable. Nights may be filled with raw, scratchy throats and the incessant hacking cough that disrupts our sleep. It’s a season where coughs become all too common.
To prepare for this inevitable seasonal shift, I’m taking proactive steps by creating a batch of my no-cook homemade cough drops. These delightful remedies are not only simple to make but are also packed with benefits:
- All-natural ingredients
- Easy to prepare (just 2 ingredients plus essential oils)
- Proven effectiveness
Key Ingredients in Natural Cough Drops
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Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Coconut oil serves as an excellent carrier oil that safely dilutes the essential oils used in these cough drops. Beyond its mixing properties, coconut oil is known for its various health benefits. It soothes, coats, and lubricates the mucous membranes in the throat, is rich in antioxidants, and contains lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid, which possess anti-viral and antibacterial properties to naturally boost your immune system.
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Raw Local Honey
According to the Mayo Clinic, honey, particularly raw honey, acts as an effective cough suppressant. One study highlighted that honey can be as effective as dextromethorphan, a common ingredient found in over-the-counter medications. Honey not only calms nighttime coughs but also helps improve sleep. It coats and soothes a sore throat, has potent antimicrobial and anti-viral properties, and is packed with vitamins to enhance immunity. Plus, its natural sweetness makes the cough drops taste delightful!
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Ginger Essential Oil
Ginger has a rich history of use in traditional medicine for thousands of years. It’s particularly renowned for its ability to soothe sore throats and alleviate coughs, especially those associated with the common cold. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help ease dry coughs.
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Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil
Cinnamon bark essential oil has long been recognized as a natural remedy for respiratory issues. A study from 2017 suggested that cinnamon essential oil may help protect against germs that cause respiratory illnesses. This oil not only provides antibacterial and antiviral benefits but also mitigates inflammation, thus calming coughs and soothing dry, scratchy throats.
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Lemon Essential Oil
As noted by Dr. Josh Axe, lemon essential oil is celebrated for its ability to boost the immune system and support lymphatic drainage, which can expedite recovery from coughs and colds. The primary component, d-Limonene, acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent and antioxidant.
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Frankincense Essential Oil
One of the oldest essential oils known to humanity, frankincense has been utilized in Ayurvedic medicine to alleviate respiratory symptoms. Its remarkable anti-viral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties can significantly enhance immunity and may help shorten the duration and severity of colds and coughs.
Creating Homemade Cough Drops — No Cooking Required
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, place 1/2 cup of coconut oil and whip it until soft and fluffy.
- Step 2: Add 1/2 cup of raw honey.
- Step 3: Incorporate the following essential oils:
- 4 drops ginger essential oil
- 3 drops cinnamon bark essential oil
- 5 drops lemon essential oil
- 8 drops frankincense essential oil
- Step 4: Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Step 5: Pour the mixture into small silicone candy trays. I prefer using a silicone mold that shapes the cough drops into cute little balls, but any silicone mold can work. Alternatively, you can drop the mixture by teaspoon onto waxed paper.
- Step 6: Place the candy mold in the freezer until the cough drops are solid, then pop them out of the molds. Store them in an airtight container in the freezer or refrigerator.
Usage Instructions
- Use as needed.
- Suck on the cough drops to soothe a sore throat or calm a cough.
- The drops will melt in your mouth quickly as the coconut oil warms, coating and soothing your throat in the process.
Cautions:
- Children may mistake these for candy, so it’s vital to keep them out of reach.
- Due to honey, these should not be given to children under 1 year old. For older children, consult your healthcare provider before use.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, please consult your doctor before using these cough drops.
- Ensure that you use high-quality essential oils labeled as safe for internal use.
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Please note: The products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is not a substitute for professional medical care. Always consult your medical doctor regarding your health. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it due to something you have read on this website.
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