Wild cherry bark cough syrup is an herbal remedy used to soothe dry, irritated coughs and support the respiratory system during seasonal discomfort. This homemade wild cherry bark syrup combines gentle, traditional herbs with raw honey to create a simple, effective herbal cough syrup you can make at home.
Wild Cherry Bark Cough Syrup Recipe
This herbal cough syrup can be used as an alternative to over the counter cough medicine. You can control the ingredients and avoid dyes and artificial flavors.
You'll get the benefits of the herbs to support your body and honey to lessen cough symptoms.
We'll talk about the benefits of each ingredient and how to make a wild cherry bark cough syrup recipe step by step. I also have a kit available if you'd rather not buy each ingredient individually.
What Is Wild Cherry Bark?
Wild cherry bark (Prunus serotina) has a long history of traditional use in herbalism, especially for dry, hacking, or irritated coughs.
Although there aren't any studies published, wild cherry bark is often said to reduce coughing by acting like a mild sedative. Compounds in the herb can help relax the smooth muscles in the bronchioles, which reduces the urge to cough.
While cherry bark is also said to be a natural anti inflammatory, which reduces inflammation in the lungs. Further, it can act like a natural astringent to tone irritated tissue in the lungs.
Note: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition. Do not use if you are pregnant, nursing, or give to children. Always consult a doctor.
Why Use Wild Cherry Bark Cough Syrup?
A homemade wild cherry bark cough syrup allows you to control the ingredients and avoid artificial flavors, dyes, and preservatives often found in commercial cough syrups.
This syrup is best suited for a dry cough or a tickle in your throat. It can also help relieve allergy symptoms. This cough syrup is not the best for a wet cough.
Wild Cherry Bark Cough Syrup Recipe
This simple recipe makes about 1 cup of finished syrup and uses only a few traditional ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 pint (2 cups) distilled water
- 1 tablespoon dried wild cherry bark
- 1 tablespoon dried mullein leaves
- ¼ cup raw honey
Instructions
Step #1
Pour the distilled water, dried wild cherry bark, and dried mullein leaves into a small saucepan. Warm gently over medium-low heat.
You can also place the herbs and water in a mason jar. Place a towel in a slow cooker and place the jar on the towel. Add water to the slow cooker to cover about half of the jar. With the lid off, let sit for 2 hours on low.
Step #2
Allow the herbs to slowly infuse for at least 20 minutes or up to 2 hours on very low heat. The longer the infusion, the stronger the herbal cough syrup will be. I try to let mine infuse for the full two hours.
Step #3
Remove from heat and strain out all plant material. You can use cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
Step #4
While the liquid is still warm (not hot), stir in the raw honey until fully dissolved.
Step #5
Pour the finished syrup into a glass jar or amber bottle. Store in the refrigerator.
Storage & Shelf Life
Store you homemade cough syrup in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in small portions and thaw as needed. I use ice cube trays to freeze and then transfer to a freezer bag or container.
Herbal Benefits of the Ingredients
- Wild Cherry Bark - Traditionally used in herbal cough syrups to support dry, irritated coughs and calm the respiratory system.
- Mullein Leaf - A classic lung-supporting herb often used in herbal remedies for coughs and throat irritation.
- Raw Honey - Acts as a natural preservative while adding soothing properties and a pleasant sweetness to homemade cough syrup recipes. Honey can also help reduce cough naturally (source).
We sell some herbs individually in convenient one ounce package. Check out our selection of bulk herbs.
Don’t Want to Source the Herbs Individually?
If you love the idea of making your own wild cherry bark cough syrup but don’t want to track down individual herbs, I also offer a Cherry Bark Cough Syrup Kit.
It’s similar to this recipe with the added benefit of calendula for extra gentle support. The kit is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a convenient way to make a homemade herbal cough syrup without guesswork.
I also offer an herbal cough syrup kit that can be used for a wet cough.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do you use wild cherry bark cough syrup? Traditionally, small amounts are taken as needed for dry cough support. Always follow safe herbal use guidelines.
- Can I make wild cherry bark syrup without honey? Honey helps preserve the syrup and adds soothing properties. If you need an alternative, you can research glycerin based herbal syrups, though storage times will vary.
- Is wild cherry bark safe? Wild cherry bark should be used responsibly and in appropriate amounts. Always research your herbs thoroughly and consult a qualified professional if you have concerns. Children and pregnant or nursing women should not use cherry bark.
For more herbal remedies, check out these posts:
- How to Make Mullein Tincture
- How to Make Dandelion Tincture
- Honey and Onion Cough Syrup Recipe
- How to Make Oil of Oregano
- Thyme and Honey Cough Syrup Recipe
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