Cloves + Cinnamon + Honey: The Natural Cold Remedy Everyone’s Sharing This Year

As the cold and flu season settles in, more people are turning away from over-the-counter syrups and towards something simpler, safer, and surprisingly powerful: a blend of cloves, cinnamon, and honey.

This ancient combination is making waves online for one reason: it actually works. It’s warming, soothing, immune-boosting, and naturally antibacterial.

What began as a traditional home remedy is now trending again and for good reason.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn why this trio is so effective, what each ingredient does for your body, and how to make the remedy at home for maximum results.

Why This Remedy Works So Well

Cloves, cinnamon, and honey aren’t just flavorful – they’re among the most potent natural antimicrobials in the world. When combined, they create a synergy that:

• Soothes sore throats and relieves coughs

• Opens congested airways and clears phlegm

• Boosts immunity and helps fight off infections

• Provides warmth and comfort during chills or fatigue

This isn’t a new discovery – it’s a recipe that has existed for centuries in Ayurvedic, Middle Eastern, and European folk medicine. The reason it’s “going viral” again is that it works fast, without side effects, and uses ingredients already found in most kitchens.

The Healing Properties of Each Ingredient

Let’s break down the science behind this powerful combination.

1. Cloves: The Natural Anesthetic and Germ Fighter

Cloves are small, aromatic flower buds that pack a powerful medicinal punch. They contain eugenol, a compound known for its antibacterial, antiviral, and pain-relieving effects.

How cloves help during a cold:

• Kill bacteria and viruses in the mouth and throat

• Relieve sore throat pain and reduce inflammation

• Loosen mucus and make coughs more productive

• Support the immune system with antioxidants

Cloves also have a mild numbing effect, which helps soothe throat irritation and coughing fits.

2. Cinnamon: The Circulation and Immune Booster

Cinnamon is more than a comforting spice – it’s a powerful natural antibiotic. Studies show that its active compound, cinnamaldehyde, helps fight bacteria, fungi, and respiratory pathogens.

How cinnamon helps during a cold:

• Improves circulation, which helps deliver oxygen and immune cells faster

• Acts as an expectorant, helping to clear mucus from the lungs

• Fights inflammation and body aches

• Helps stabilize blood sugar, keeping your energy steady during recovery

Cinnamon also warms the body – a key benefit during colds when circulation and immune activity can slow down.

3. Honey: Nature’s Antibiotic Syrup

Honey has been used for thousands of years as a healing and soothing remedy. It coats the throat, reduces irritation, and supports the immune system.

How honey helps during a cold:

• Suppresses coughs naturally (especially before bedtime)

• Contains enzymes that break down bacteria

• Provides antioxidants and trace minerals

• Acts as a gentle energy booster when you’re feeling weak

A study published in the Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that honey worked better than common cough syrups for reducing nighttime coughing in children.

The Perfect Combination: How They Work Together

When cloves, cinnamon, and honey are mixed, their healing properties are amplified.

• The cloves fight infection and ease pain.

• The cinnamon boosts blood flow and breaks up mucus.

• The honey coats the throat and delivers natural enzymes and antioxidants.

Together, they create a remedy that targets both symptoms and root causes of colds – not just the discomfort, but the underlying inflammation and infection.

How to Make the Remedy at Home

Ingredients:

• 3–4 whole cloves (or ½ teaspoon ground)

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (or 1 small stick)

• 1 tablespoon raw honey

• 1 cup of hot water

Directions:

1. Boil the water and pour it into a cup.

2. Add the cloves and cinnamon, and let steep for 10 minutes.

3. Strain the liquid and allow it to cool slightly.

4. Stir in the honey (never add honey to boiling water – it destroys its enzymes).

5. Sip slowly while it’s warm.

You can also make a stronger syrup version by simmering the cloves and cinnamon in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes, then mixing with 2 tablespoons of honey once it cools. Store in a glass jar in the fridge for up to a week.

Take 1–2 teaspoons, 2–3 times a day, or stir into warm tea for a quick immune boost.

Bonus: Add These Optional Ingredients for Extra Power

• Lemon juice: Adds vitamin C and alkalizes the body.

• Ginger: Enhances circulation and fights inflammation.

• Turmeric: Adds antioxidant protection and soothes sore throats.

• Black pepper: Boosts absorption of active compounds like curcumin and eugenol.

What to Expect After Taking It

Most people report noticeable relief after the first or second dose. Common effects include:

• Reduced coughing and throat irritation

• Easier breathing and less chest tightness

• Decreased nasal congestion

• More energy and less fatigue

For best results, take the mixture at the first signs of a cold – sore throat, tickle in the nose, or fatigue.

Why People Are Sharing It Everywhere

This natural remedy has gone viral on social media platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, and Facebook because:

• It uses common ingredients found in any kitchen.

• It provides immediate relief without side effects.

• It’s safe for both adults and children (over age 1, due to honey).

• It aligns with the growing trend toward natural, holistic healing.

Instead of relying solely on pharmaceutical syrups, people are rediscovering the power of traditional remedies – simple, effective, and time-tested.

Tips for Best Results

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help flush toxins.

• Rest and keep your throat warm with scarves or herbal steam.

• Avoid dairy and processed sugars while recovering – they increase mucus production.

• Store leftover syrup in a clean glass jar and use within one week.

The blend of cloves, cinnamon, and honey is far more than a home remedy – it’s a natural formula that supports the immune system, soothes the throat, clears the airways, and restores vitality.

Whether you use it as a warm tea or thick syrup, it’s one of the easiest and most effective natural remedies for colds, coughs, and sore throats.