Name: Homemade Cough Syrup with Lemon, Pineapple, and Ginger
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Natural Remedy
Ingredients: 1 cup fresh pineapple juice (or blended fresh pineapple); 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice; 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger; 1–2 tablespoons raw honey (optional); 2–4 tablespoons water (if needed for consistency)

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This homemade cough syrup made with lemon, pineapple, and ginger is a natural and effective way I like to soothe a sore throat and calm a stubborn cough. Packed with anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting ingredients, it’s a comforting remedy I reach for when I’m feeling under the weather. Homemade Cough Syrup with Lemon, Pineapple, and Ginger

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s simple, all-natural, and made with ingredients I often have in my kitchen. Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that helps reduce mucus and inflammation. Lemon adds a dose of vitamin C and cuts through phlegm, while ginger brings warmth and powerful anti-inflammatory properties. I make a batch in just minutes and store it in the fridge, ready to go when I need a quick soothing remedy.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Fresh pineapple juice (or blended fresh pineapple)
Freshly squeezed lemon juice
Grated fresh ginger
Raw honey (optional but helpful for soothing)
Water (if needed for consistency)

directions

I start by grating the fresh ginger and setting it aside.
In a small saucepan, I combine the pineapple juice, lemon juice, and ginger.
I bring the mixture to a light simmer over medium heat for about 5–10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
If I’m using honey, I remove the saucepan from the heat and stir it in once the mixture has cooled slightly, so I don’t lose its beneficial properties.
I let it cool completely, then strain it into a clean glass jar or bottle.
I store it in the fridge and shake it well before each use.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1 cup of syrup, enough for 8–10 servings depending on the dose. I take 1–2 tablespoons up to 3 times a day when I’m dealing with a cough or sore throat. Preparation time takes about 15 minutes total.

Variations

Sometimes I add a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick and sinus-clearing effect. I’ve also used turmeric for added anti-inflammatory benefits. If I want it sweeter or more palatable for kids, I increase the honey slightly or mix the syrup into warm herbal tea.

storage/reheating

I keep the syrup stored in a sealed jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. I never reheat the syrup on the stove or microwave; instead, I let it come to room temperature or warm it gently in a bowl of warm water if needed. This helps preserve the nutrients and properties of the raw ingredients.

FAQs

How often can I take this homemade cough syrup?

I usually take 1–2 tablespoons every few hours, up to 3 times a day, depending on how intense my cough is.

Can I give this syrup to children?

Yes, but I always skip the honey if giving it to children under 1 year old. For older kids, I use a smaller dose like 1 teaspoon at a time.

Do I need to strain the syrup?

I prefer to strain it for a smoother texture, especially if I’m using a lot of ginger or pineapple pulp. But sometimes I leave it as-is if I don’t mind the texture.

Can I use bottled juice instead of fresh?

Fresh juice is always my go-to because it has more enzymes and nutrients, but bottled can work in a pinch—just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar.

Is this syrup safe to take with medications?

I always recommend checking with a healthcare provider, especially if I’m taking medications or have a medical condition, just to be safe.

Conclusion

This lemon, pineapple, and ginger cough syrup is a natural remedy I love having on hand during cold and flu season. It’s easy to make, gentle on the body, and surprisingly effective at calming coughs and easing throat irritation. With a few fresh ingredients, I get a comforting boost of wellness in every spoonful.