The "January crud" is officially here. If you’ve been scrolling through the aisles of the pharmacy looking for relief, you might be surprised to find that the most powerful ingredients for respiratory support are already in your pantry.

Forget the artificial colors and high-fructose corn syrup found in store-bought bottles. Today, we’re making a traditional Kitchen Apothecary Cough Syrup using red onion, garlic, cinnamon, and raw honey.

Why This Remedy is a January Essential

In the peak of winter, our bodies need extra support. Unlike the "layering method" which can take 24 hours to draw out juices, this quick-infusion method (or simmered version) allows you to access the healing properties of these plants immediately.

The Powerhouse Ingredients:

• Red Onion: Onions are packed with quercetin, a flavonoid that helps reduce inflammation in the lungs and acts as a natural antihistamine.

• Smashed Garlic: When garlic is crushed, it releases allicin, a potent compound known for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties.

• Cinnamon Sticks: Not just for flavor! Cinnamon is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps soothe a scratchy, swollen throat.

• Raw Honey: Scientific studies have shown that raw honey can be just as effective as over-the-counter cough suppressants at coating the throat and reducing nighttime coughing.

How to Make My "No-Strain" Winter Syrup

Many traditional recipes tell you to strain the mixture, but I prefer to leave the onion and garlic in. This allows the honey to continue extracting the "good stuff" as it sits in your fridge.

Ingredients

• 1 medium Red Onion (chopped)

• 4 cloves Garlic (smashed)

• 2 Cinnamon sticks

• 1 cup Raw Honey

Instructions

1. Combine: Place your chopped onion, smashed garlic, and cinnamon sticks into a clean glass jar or a small saucepan.

2. Infuse: If you need it immediately, simmer the ingredients (minus the honey) with a half-cup of water for 10 minutes, let it cool to lukewarm, then stir in the honey. If you have time, simply submerge the raw ingredients in honey and let them sit.

3. The 48-Hour Rule: This is critical! While you can leave the onion and garlic in the jar, you must remove the cinnamon sticks after 48 hours. This prevents the syrup from becoming too bitter or woody.

4. Storage: Because this contains fresh vegetables, store your syrup in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and potent for up to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to leave the onions and garlic in the syrup?

Yes! In fact, it's better health-wise. The garlic and onion pieces will soften and "candy" in the honey. You can even eat the pieces for an extra immune boost.

When should I take it?

Most people find relief taking 1 tablespoon every 2 to 3 hours or whenever a coughing fit starts.

Can children take this?

This remedy contains honey and should never be given to infants under one year of age due to the risk of botulism. For older children, consult your pediatrician.

In January, wellness is all about getting back to basics. By using what you have in your kitchen, you’re not just saving money—you’re giving your body bioavailable nutrients that support your recovery from the inside out.

Have you tried making your own remedies before? Drop a comment below and let me know your favorite "pantry hack" for cold season!