Have you ever felt your chest heavy, your throat scratchy, or mucus building up after a day of city air, seasonal pollen or just a lingering cold? If so — you’re far from alone. The great news is: sometimes nature’s simplest pantry items can bring a little relief. One of my favourites? A gentle syrup of onions and honey.
Onions might seem an odd place to start, but they’re rich in natural compounds — antioxidants, sulfur-based oils and more — that help with mucus and inflammation in the respiratory tract. Honey, on its own, has long been used for its soothing, antimicrobial and antioxidant powers. Combine them, and you get a syrup that helps loosen chest congestion, calm throat irritation and offer gentle respiratory support.
Making it is refreshingly simple: peel and thin-slice one large onion, layer it in a glass jar, pour 3 to 4 tablespoons of raw organic honey over it and seal it. Let it rest overnight so the flavours and beneficial juices mingle. The next morning you’ll have a syrup you can keep in the fridge for a few days. Take a tablespoon (for adults) 2-3 times a day, or a teaspoon for a child over one year old (honey is not safe for infants). Want more? Add a slice of fresh ginger or a splash of lemon juice for extra warmth and flavour.
Of course, this isn’t a miracle cure — if you’re dealing with serious symptoms, persistent chest tightness, or underlying conditions like diabetes, always check with a healthcare provider. But as a gentle, kitchen-friendly ally in the battle against coughs, congestion and that “stuck” feeling in your chest — it’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes what we need most is simple, wholesome, and rooted in nature.