DIY Throat Lozenges - Soothing Throat Support
When the seasonal sniffles strike or a scratchy throat sets in, having a simple remedy on hand can make all the difference. Instead of rushing to the store for lozenges that are filled with artificial ingredients and refined sugar, create your own soothing throat lozenges with just four easy-to-find ingredients. These DIY lozenges offer comfort and relief while being simple to make with all real ingredients that are easy to find!
Ingredients You'll Need
- Raw Local Honey: Known for its natural soothing properties, honey helps coat the throat, reducing irritation and providing relief.
- Organic Coconut Oil: Rich in antioxidants and with its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil supports overall throat health.
- Organic Lemon Juice: Packed with vitamin C, lemon juice offers immune-boosting benefits and adds a refreshing burst of flavour.
- Organic Ginger and Turmeric Tea: With anti-inflammatory properties, ginger and turmeric provide additional relief for sore throats.
Note: Even though you'll be heating the honey, I think it's always best to use raw, unpasteurized honey to avoid any additives in your lozenges. Local honey is especially preferred as this helps your immune system adjust to pollen in the air to help reduce allergies and symptoms!
Recipe for DIY Throat Lozenges
Note: Recipe makes approx. 32 lozenges.
Ingredients:
-
1 cup ginger and turmeric tea (freshly steeped for 20-25 mins)
- Juice of 2 medium lemons (option to add lemon zest as well)
- 3/4 cup raw honey
- 3 teaspoons coconut oil
Steps:
1. Combine all ingredients in a small saucepot. Heat the pot slightly over medium-high heat and melt the ingredients together until it comes to a boil, once boiling reduce to a simmer.
2. Allow to boil on a gentle heat (simmer), stirring occasionally, until mixture reaches approximately 140 degrees Celsius. To get to this temperature, it takes me about 15-20 minutes. Best sure to keep on simmer as the mixture could boil over if the heat is too high. Once you reach this temperature, remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes, the mixture should thicken as it cools down.
3. Pour the mixture into silicone molds but don't fill them all the way. Let them cool on the counter for 30 minutes before placing them in the freezer.
How to Store
Store the lozenges in the freezer right in the silicone molds. If you want to store them in a container, separate them between sheets of unbleached parchment so that they don't stick together!
Eat them right out of the freezer, the cold is also soothing on a sore throat!
Do not store the lozenges in the fridge as they lose their shape and will become a gooey mess.
FAQs About DIY Throat Lozenges
1. Will throat lozenges help alleviate a cough?
Throat lozenges may provide temporary relief from cough symptoms due to their soothing properties. The combination of lemon's vitamin C content and its natural acidity can help soothe the throat, reducing irritation that triggers coughing.
2. Are throat lozenges suitable for all types of coughs?
Lemon throat lozenges are more effective for soothing dry or scratchy throats associated with irritation or minor infections.
3. How often should I use throat lozenges for cough relief?
You can use the throat lozenges as needed for relief. Allow the lozenge to dissolve slowly in your mouth and use until you no longer need support.
4. Can children use throat lozenges for cough relief?
Throat lozenges are typically recommended for children aged 7 and up. It's best to supervise younger children while they use lozenges and ensure they don't swallow them whole to prevent choking hazards.
Hope you enjoy these soothing throat lozenges as much as my family does!