A Powerful Natural Remedy for Cough and Bronchitis: Helps Expel Phlegm Quickly

Coughing can be exhausting, especially when it lingers for weeks or turns into bronchitis. This persistent condition not only disrupts your sleep and weakens your immune system but can also develop into more serious respiratory issues if left untreated. Fortunately, there are safe and effective ways to manage cough and bronchitis right at home—using natural ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
One of the most effective homemade remedies for relieving cough, loosening mucus, and soothing inflamed airways combines onion, lemon, honey, and brown sugar. This simple recipe has been passed down through generations and remains one of the most trusted natural treatments for bronchial problems.
Understanding Bronchitis and the Bronchi
To understand why this remedy works so well, it helps to know a bit about the respiratory system. The bronchi are a vital part of our airways—tubes that connect the trachea (windpipe) to the lungs. There are two main bronchi (right and left), which branch into smaller tubes known as bronchioles. Together, they form what’s called the bronchial tree, the network through which air travels in and out of the lungs.
When the bronchi become inflamed, it leads to a condition known as bronchitis. This inflammation is usually caused by viruses (like the flu or common cold), but can also develop from bacterial infections, exposure to toxic substances, cigarette smoke, dust, or ammonia fumes.
Bronchitis can be acute—lasting a few days or weeks—or chronic, persisting for months or even years. It is especially dangerous for older adults, smokers, and people with chronic heart or lung diseases, as their immune systems are often weaker.
The Power of Natural Remedies
While modern medicine offers various cough syrups and antibiotics, many of these products only relieve symptoms temporarily and may irritate the stomach or cause drowsiness. In contrast, natural remedies gently support the body’s own healing process without harmful side effects.
The recipe below is particularly effective because it combines ingredients known for their antibacterial, antiviral, and expectorant properties. The result is a powerful homemade syrup that helps clear mucus, calm coughing fits, and strengthen the respiratory system.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Red onions – 0.5 kg (about 1 pound)
Onions are rich in sulfur compounds and antioxidants that fight infection, reduce inflammation, and help loosen phlegm. They act as a natural expectorant, making it easier to clear mucus from the lungs and airways.
Brown sugar – 0.5 kg (about 2 cups)
Brown sugar is used to caramelize the onions and enhance flavor, but it also soothes the throat and makes the remedy more palatable, especially for children.
Lemons – 2 medium-sized
Lemons are high in vitamin C, which boosts immunity and helps the body fight infection. Their acidity also cuts through mucus and promotes easier breathing.
Water – 1.5 liters
Water acts as the base of the syrup, helping extract beneficial compounds from the onions and lemon.
Honey – 200 ml (about ¾ cup, natural)
Honey is a powerful natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory agent. It coats the throat, relieves irritation, and has been proven to reduce coughing frequency—especially at night.
How to Prepare the Remedy
Caramelize the sugar:
Pour the brown sugar into a saucepan and heat it over medium flame. Stir constantly to prevent burning. When it turns a golden caramel color, it’s ready for the next step.
Add the onions:
Finely chop the red onions and add them to the caramelized sugar. Continue stirring for a few minutes as the mixture becomes fragrant.
Add water and simmer:
Pour in the water and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat slightly and let it simmer until the liquid reduces to about 500 milliliters—roughly one-third of its original volume. This allows the active ingredients to concentrate.
Add honey and lemon:
Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly. Add the honey and squeeze in the juice from two lemons. Stir thoroughly until well combined.
Store properly:
Transfer the mixture into a clean glass jar or bottle. Keep it in the refrigerator for freshness.
How to Use It
Take one tablespoon of the syrup three times a day, preferably before meals. Continue using it until your cough subsides and your breathing feels clear.
If your symptoms persist or the prepared amount runs out before you fully recover, you can simply prepare another batch following the same recipe. Consistency is key—the longer you take it, the more noticeable the results.
Why This Remedy Works
This powerful combination of natural ingredients targets the root causes of cough and bronchitis:
Onion breaks down mucus buildup and clears the airways.
Honey soothes the throat and reduces inflammation.
Lemon detoxifies and strengthens the immune system.
Brown sugar provides quick energy and makes the syrup pleasant to taste.
Together, they create a balanced natural expectorant that not only relieves symptoms but also helps the body fight off the underlying infection.
Additional Tips for Faster Recovery
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of warm fluids such as herbal teas, water with lemon, or chicken broth. This helps thin mucus and makes coughing more productive.
Rest: Give your lungs time to heal by getting enough sleep and avoiding strenuous physical activity.
Avoid irritants: Stay away from cigarette smoke, cold air, or strong chemical fumes that can aggravate the bronchi.
Use steam inhalation: Inhale steam with a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil to open up airways and ease breathing.
The Natural Way to Breathe Easy
Sometimes, the best medicine is simple. This traditional remedy for cough and bronchitis is made entirely from natural, readily available ingredients—no synthetic chemicals, no side effects. It’s affordable, easy to make, and incredibly effective for the whole family.
While severe or chronic bronchitis may require professional medical care, this syrup is an excellent supportive treatment for mild to moderate symptoms. It soothes irritation, loosens phlegm, and helps restore easy breathing naturally.
Many who have tried it are amazed by how quickly it brings relief—sometimes within just a few days. So, next time a stubborn cough won’t let you rest, reach for your kitchen ingredients instead of the pharmacy shelf. You’ll be surprised at how well nature’s medicine can work.
About Kop.ge
At Kop.ge, we believe that health and beauty begin with nature. Our mission is to share simple, natural, and affordable remedies that help you feel better, look better, and simplify your everyday life. Every recipe we publish is based on safe, time-tested ingredients and traditional wisdom.
Our goal is to show that you don’t need expensive treatments or complicated procedures to stay healthy. With the right information and natural ingredients, you can care for your health and your family right at home—saving money while enjoying the process.












