DIY Natural Cough Suppressant Salve (One-Ingredient Base!)
As a mom with a busy household, I know how important it is to have natural remedies on hand for when those pesky coughs sneak into our lives. This simple, one-base cough suppressant salve is a lifesaver during cold season. It’s made with just coconut oil and a few essential oils, making it easy to whip up and perfect for soothing coughs and congestion when your family needs it most.
Why This Works
This salve combines the natural benefits of coconut oil with the powerful properties of essential oils to create an effective remedy for coughs and congestion.
- Coconut oil acts as a carrier, allowing the essential oils to penetrate the skin while moisturizing and soothing irritated areas. It also helps to deliver the active components of the oils directly where they’re needed.
- Eucalyptus essential oil is known for its ability to open airways and reduce congestion. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties provide additional relief during cold season.
- Peppermint essential oil offers a cooling sensation and can help calm coughs and reduce irritation in the throat and chest.
- Rosemary or tea tree oil (optional) adds extra antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties, making this salve even more effective at combating symptoms.
Together, these ingredients work synergistically to provide natural relief, making this salve a must-have during the colder months.
Why Coconut Oil?
Coconut oil is a versatile and natural moisturizer that absorbs easily into the skin, making it the perfect base for this salve. It’s lightweight, non-greasy, and blends beautifully with essential oils for a smooth, soothing application.
Ingredients:
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup coconut oil (natural base and moisturizer)
- 10 drops eucalyptus essential oil (helps clear airways and congestion)
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil (cooling and soothing for coughs)
- Optional: 5 drops rosemary or tea tree essential oil (for their antimicrobial benefits)
Instructions:
- Melt the base:
If your coconut oil is solid, gently warm it in a double boiler (or a heatproof bowl set over simmering water) until it’s fully melted. If it’s already liquid, you can skip this step. - Remove from heat:
Once melted, remove the coconut oil from heat and let it cool slightly. This helps preserve the potency of the essential oils. - Add essential oils:
Stir in the essential oils. Feel free to adjust the amounts based on your family’s preferences, but avoid exceeding recommended drops to ensure safety. - Pour and cool:
Pour the mixture into small jars or tins while still liquid. Let it cool and set at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Once solidified, your salve is ready to use!
How to Use:
- Chest and back: Gently rub the salve on the chest and back to relieve coughs and open up airways.
- Soles of the feet: For nighttime relief, apply the salve to the soles of the feet and cover with socks to help ease coughing while your little ones sleep.
Tips for Success:
- Perform a patch test before using to ensure no skin sensitivities.
- Store the salve in a cool, dry place. It should last up to 6 months.
- Use this salve on kids ages 5 and older. For younger children, consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint.
This coconut oil-based cough suppressant salve has become a staple in my household during cold and flu season. It’s not only effective but also a soothing way to show a little extra care for your family. Give it a try and let me know how it works for you in the comments below!
