Cough and sore throat are common health issues, especially during cold and flu season. While many over-the-counter medicines are available, natural alternatives like herbal cough candy offer a soothing and effective remedy. This guide will show you how to make cough candy using natural plant extracts, including ginger (Zingiber officinale), calamansi (Citrus microcarpa), and tamarind (Tamarindus indica).
By using local herbal ingredients, this homemade cough candy can help reduce dependency on imported pharmaceuticals while providing an affordable and natural solution for cough relief.
Why Use Herbal Plant Extracts for Cough Candy?
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries due to their natural healing properties. The combination of ginger, calamansi, and tamarind in this cough candy provides the following benefits:
Ginger: Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and helps soothe sore throat.
Calamansi: Rich in vitamin C, boosts immunity, and provides antibacterial properties.
Tamarind: Helps break down mucus and soothes the throat.
Menthol & Essential Oils: Provide cooling and decongestant effects.
By incorporating these natural ingredients, this DIY herbal cough candy offers a cost-effective, chemical-free alternative to synthetic lozenges.
Ingredients for Herbal Cough Candy
Main Ingredients:
Sugar – 80g
Glucose syrup – 90g
Water – 25ml
Calamansi juice – 10ml
Tamarind nectar – 10ml
NH4Cl (Ammonium chloride) – 1g (optional for extra throat relief)
Menthol crystals – 0.10g
Ginger oil – 0.15ml
Calamansi oil – 0.15ml
Food color (optional) – 0.05g
Powdered sugar – 2.5g (for coating)
Magnesia powder – 2.5g (prevents sticking)
Step-by-Step Procedure for Making Herbal Cough Candy
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a saucepan, combine:
Sugar
Glucose syrup
Water
Calamansi juice
Tamarind nectar
Food color (if using)
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is fully dissolved. Cover and allow the mixture to steam.
Step 2: Boil Until Thick
Continue boiling until the temperature reaches 140°C (hard crack stage). If you don’t have a thermometer, check the consistency by dropping a small amount into cold water—it should harden instantly.
Step 3: Add the Active Ingredients
Once the desired consistency is reached, add:
NH4Cl (if using)
Menthol crystals
Ginger oil
Calamansi oil
Stir well to ensure the oils and menthol are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Molding & Cooling
Pour the mixture into greased candy molds or onto a greased surface. Let it cool slightly before cutting into small candy pieces.
Step 5: Final Coating
Mix powdered sugar and magnesia powder together. Roll each candy in this mixture to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Packing & Storing
Allow the candies to cool completely. Store in an airtight container or wrap individually in wax paper.
Yield: This recipe makes 35-45 pieces of herbal cough candy.
Tips for Best Results
✔️ Use fresh calamansi and tamarind juice for better flavor and higher medicinal benefits.
✔️ Ensure the candy reaches 140°C to achieve the proper hard texture.
✔️ Store in a cool, dry place to prevent sticking or melting.
✔️ Experiment with flavors! You can add honey or licorice extract for extra throat-soothing benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does homemade cough candy last?
If stored properly in an airtight container, these herbal cough drops can last for up to 6 months.
2. Can I use honey instead of sugar?
Yes, but honey burns at high temperatures. It’s best to mix it in after the candy cools slightly.
3. Is this safe for kids?
Yes, but avoid giving hard candies to children under 4 years old due to choking hazards.
4. Can I sell homemade cough candy?
Yes! If you plan to sell these cough candies, consider registering your product with FDA Philippines and following proper food safety guidelines.
Why You Should Try Making Your Own Cough Candy
All-natural ingredients – No artificial chemicals or preservatives!
Cost-effective – Cheaper than store-bought lozenges.
Locally sourced – Uses Philippine herbal plants to support local farmers.
Effective relief – Helps soothe throat irritation and cough naturally.
So the next time you feel a cough coming, skip the synthetic lozenges and try making your own herbal cough candy instead!
Did you find this guide helpful? Share this with your friends and family!
Originally posted 2017-11-11 14:07:19.
