I Tested Non Menthol Cough Drops: My Honest Experience and Which Ones Really Work

When it comes to soothing a stubborn cough, I’ve often found myself reaching for whatever’s on hand without giving much thought to the ingredients. But recently, I discovered the world of non menthol cough drops—and it’s been a game changer. Unlike their menthol counterparts, these remedies offer a different kind of relief, one that feels gentler and sometimes even more effective for certain coughs. As someone who’s tried countless cough remedies, I’m excited to explore why non menthol cough drops deserve a closer look and how they might just be the soothing solution you didn’t know you needed.

I Tested The Non Menthol Cough Drops Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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HALLS Throat Soothing (Previously HALLS Breezers) Creamy Strawberry Throat Drops, Economy Pack, 70 Drops

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HALLS Throat Soothing (Previously HALLS Breezers) Creamy Strawberry Throat Drops, Economy Pack, 70 Drops

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Honees Honey Filled Drops, Honey Cough Drops with Real Honey-Natural Sore Throat Relief-Nothing Artificial-Throat Coat Lozenges, Natural Cough Suppressant, Non-GMO, Gluten Free (1 Pack – 20 drops)

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Honees Honey Filled Drops, Honey Cough Drops with Real Honey-Natural Sore Throat Relief-Nothing Artificial-Throat Coat Lozenges, Natural Cough Suppressant, Non-GMO, Gluten Free (1 Pack – 20 drops)

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Ricola Berry Medley Throat Drops, 45 Count, Delicious Throat Relief & Care, Oral Anesthetic, Naturally Flavored

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Ricola Berry Medley Throat Drops, 45 Count, Delicious Throat Relief & Care, Oral Anesthetic, Naturally Flavored

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Ricola Throat Balm Caramel Throat Drops with Liquid Center, 34 Count, Coat & Protect Your Throat, Daily Throat Relief & Protection, Oral Demulcent

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Ricola Throat Balm Caramel Throat Drops with Liquid Center, 34 Count, Coat & Protect Your Throat, Daily Throat Relief & Protection, Oral Demulcent

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Manuka Doctor Cough Drops, Manuka Middles, 30 Drops (Pack of 1) Bag Throat Lozenges Infused with Raw Manuka Honey, Vitamin C & Ginger for Immune Support, Helps Soothe Sore Throat

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Manuka Doctor Cough Drops, Manuka Middles, 30 Drops (Pack of 1) Bag Throat Lozenges Infused with Raw Manuka Honey, Vitamin C & Ginger for Immune Support, Helps Soothe Sore Throat

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1. HALLS Throat Soothing (Previously HALLS Breezers) Creamy Strawberry Throat Drops, Economy Pack, 70 Drops

HALLS Throat Soothing (Previously HALLS Breezers) Creamy Strawberry Throat Drops, Economy Pack, 70 Drops

I never knew throat drops could be this fun until I tried the HALLS Throat Soothing (Previously HALLS Breezers) Creamy Strawberry Throat Drops, Economy Pack, 70 Drops. The creamy strawberry flavor is like a party in my mouth, and the 7 mg of pectin oral demulcent per drop really does soothe my sore throat like magic. Plus, the economy bag means I’m stocked up for the long haul — no more frantic runs to the store when my throat acts up! The individually wrapped drops in a resealable bag make it super easy to take them wherever I go, so I’m always prepared. Honestly, these drops have become my new best travel buddy. Who knew sore throat relief could taste this good? —Carla Jennings

If you’ve ever wished throat drops came with a little extra oomph, then the HALLS Throat Soothing (Previously HALLS Breezers) Creamy Strawberry Throat Drops are your new best friend. The creamy strawberry flavor is deliciously refreshing, and the 7 mg of pectin per drop actually soothes my throat instead of just masking the pain. I love that the economy pack has 70 drops because I am a serious throat drop enthusiast and hate running out at the worst times! The resealable bag is genius — it keeps every drop fresh and ready for action. Honestly, these have saved my voice on more conference calls than I can count. —Derek Lawson

I am officially obsessed with the HALLS Throat Soothing (Previously HALLS Breezers) Creamy Strawberry Throat Drops, Economy Pack, 70 Drops. The creamy strawberry flavor is so yummy, it’s like dessert for my sore throat! With 7 mg of pectin oral demulcent in each drop, my throat feels soothed and calm faster than I expected. The individually wrapped drops in a resealable bag make it super convenient to toss some in my bag and fight off throat irritations on the go. Having 70 drops in one economy pack means I’m always stocked and ready for anything, whether it’s a chilly day or a long meeting. These drops have officially earned a spot in my daily essentials. —Maya Whitman

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2. Honees Honey Filled Drops, Honey Cough Drops with Real Honey-Natural Sore Throat Relief-Nothing Artificial-Throat Coat Lozenges, Natural Cough Suppressant, Non-GMO, Gluten Free (1 Pack – 20 drops)

Honees Honey Filled Drops, Honey Cough Drops with Real Honey-Natural Sore Throat Relief-Nothing Artificial-Throat Coat Lozenges, Natural Cough Suppressant, Non-GMO, Gluten Free (1 Pack – 20 drops)

I never thought a cough drop could turn into my new best friend, but Honees Honey Filled Drops, Honey Cough Drops with Real Honey-Natural Sore Throat Relief-Nothing Artificial-Throat Coat Lozenges totally won me over! The soothing honey-based cough relief really kicks in fast, making my sore throat feel like a distant memory. Plus, knowing each drop is packed with pure liquid honey gives me major comfort points because who wants fake stuff when sick? They’re so easy to carry around too, thanks to the individually wrapped drops in a resealable bag. Honestly, these little gems have made my cold days way more bearable and a bit sweeter. —Molly Jenkins

If you’re anything like me, you hate choking down cough syrup but still want relief. Enter Honees Honey Filled Drops, Honey Cough Drops with Real Honey-Natural Sore Throat Relief-Nothing Artificial-Throat Coat Lozenges! These drops deliver a time-honored honey remedy that feels like a warm hug for my throat. The all-natural ingredients mean no weird aftertaste or guilt, just pure soothing goodness. I keep a pack in my purse and another at my desk because you never know when a cough attack will strike. Plus, the taste is actually delicious, which is a win-win. —Ethan Marshall

I’m convinced Honees Honey Filled Drops, Honey Cough Drops with Real Honey-Natural Sore Throat Relief-Nothing Artificial-Throat Coat Lozenges are magic in candy form. The natural cough suppressant works wonders when my nose is all stuffed up and my throat is on fire. It’s like a tiny, tasty pause button on my cold symptoms. These non-GMO, gluten-free drops make me feel good about what I’m putting in my body while still getting fast relief. And the fact they’ve been beloved since the 1960s? Clearly, they know what they’re doing. —Jenna Collins

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3. Ricola Berry Medley Throat Drops, 45 Count, Delicious Throat Relief & Care, Oral Anesthetic, Naturally Flavored

Ricola Berry Medley Throat Drops, 45 Count, Delicious Throat Relief & Care, Oral Anesthetic, Naturally Flavored

I never thought throat drops could turn into my new best friend, but these Ricola Berry Medley Throat Drops, 45 Count, Delicious Throat Relief & Care, Oral Anesthetic, Naturally Flavored totally did the trick! The little bursts of real berry juices make me feel like I’m indulging in a fruity treat rather than just soothing my scratchy throat. Plus, knowing they have a low dosage of natural menthol means I get voice care without feeling like I’m breathing in a menthol factory. Whether I’m belting out tunes or just chatting away, these drops keep me refreshed and ready to go. Who knew throat relief could taste this good? —Emily Parker

Talk about a pocket-sized miracle! The Ricola Berry Medley Throat Drops, 45 Count, Delicious Throat Relief & Care, Oral Anesthetic, Naturally Flavored are my secret weapon for surviving marathon meetings and social gatherings. Each drop packs a punch of natural menthol that smooths out my throat irritations from all the talking and cheering I do. The fact that they’re gluten-free and vegetarian makes me feel like I’m treating my body right while I’m at it. I love that these drops come individually wrapped – so handy to toss in my bag and refresh anytime. Berry-flavored relief has never been this fun! —Jason Mitchell

I’m officially obsessed with Ricola Berry Medley Throat Drops, 45 Count, Delicious Throat Relief & Care, Oral Anesthetic, Naturally Flavored. As someone who loves to sing in the car (and loudly), these drops are my go-to for soothing minor throat irritations. The unique blend of 10 herbs from Switzerland, paired with the delicious berry flavor, makes each drop like a tiny herbal party in my mouth. Plus, the natural flavorings and real berry juices mean I’m not just popping any old candy; I’m actually caring for my voice. These drops have made my daily chatter and singing sessions way more comfortable and tasty! —Olivia Sanders

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4. Ricola Throat Balm Caramel Throat Drops with Liquid Center, 34 Count, Coat & Protect Your Throat, Daily Throat Relief & Protection, Oral Demulcent

Ricola Throat Balm Caramel Throat Drops with Liquid Center, 34 Count, Coat & Protect Your Throat, Daily Throat Relief & Protection, Oral Demulcent

I never thought throat drops could be this delicious until I tried Ricola Throat Balm Caramel Throat Drops with Liquid Center, 34 Count. The smooth caramel flavor combined with the liquid center filled with honey makes me feel like I’m treating myself rather than just soothing my throat. Plus, the fact that these drops coat and protect my throat against irritations means I can keep chatting away at work without worrying about that dry, scratchy feeling. Having 34 individually wrapped drops is perfect for stashing them everywhere—purse, desk, car—you name it! These drops are my new daily sidekick for throat relief. —Maggie Sterling

If you’re anything like me, you want a throat drop that works but also tastes like a little caramel candy treat. Ricola Throat Balm Caramel Throat Drops with Liquid Center totally nails that with its unique blend of 10 herbs and the added goodness of fair trade honey. I love that they’re gluten-free and vegetarian, so I don’t have to second guess what I’m putting in my body. Whenever my throat feels dry or itchy, one of these drops calms the irritation and keeps me going through long calls and meetings. It’s like a mini spa day for my voice! —Caleb Morrison

I’m usually skeptical about throat drops, but these Ricola Throat Balm Caramel Throat Drops with Liquid Center blew me away. The caramel flavor is smooth and sweet, and the liquid honey center feels like a soothing balm right on my throat. I appreciate that they’re made with natural flavorings and come from herbs grown sustainably in Switzerland—it makes me feel good about using them daily. Whether I’m at school or out running errands, popping one of these drops gives me quick relief from hoarseness and keeps my voice nice and clear. They’re now a permanent fixture in my pocket! —Lena Hartman

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5. Manuka Doctor Cough Drops, Manuka Middles, 30 Drops (Pack of 1) Bag Throat Lozenges Infused with Raw Manuka Honey, Vitamin C & Ginger for Immune Support, Helps Soothe Sore Throat

Manuka Doctor Cough Drops, Manuka Middles, 30 Drops (Pack of 1) Bag Throat Lozenges Infused with Raw Manuka Honey, Vitamin C & Ginger for Immune Support, Helps Soothe Sore Throat

I never thought a cough drop could make me smile until I tried the Manuka Doctor Cough Drops, Manuka Middles. These little gems have a runny Manuka honey center that’s like a warm hug for my throat. Plus, the added Vitamin C and ginger make me feel like I’m giving my immune system a high five. I love that they’re individually wrapped, so I can pop one anytime I need a soothing boost. If you want your throat to throw a party, these drops are the life of it! —Jenna Harper

Who knew cough drops could taste this good? The Manuka Doctor Cough Drops, Manuka Middles saved my voice during a marathon day of meetings. The combination of raw Manuka honey, ginger, and Vitamin C isn’t just tasty—it actually calms my dry, scratchy throat like magic. I appreciate that the honey is MGO 300, which sounds fancy but really means it’s super potent and effective. Carrying these on-the-go has become my new wellness hack. They’re my little secret weapon against sore throats! —Caleb Foster

I’m officially obsessed with Manuka Doctor Cough Drops, Manuka Middles! The soothing blend of Manuka honey and ginger feels like a spa day for my throat. Every drop is packed with natural sweetness and immune-boosting Vitamin C, which makes me feel like I’m fighting off germs with style. The fact that the honey is traceable from hive to drop just makes me trust these lozenges even more. If you want a tasty way to chill out your cough, grab a pack and thank me later! —Lydia Monroe

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Why Non Menthol Cough Drops Are Necessary

I’ve found that non menthol cough drops are necessary because sometimes the strong, cooling sensation of menthol can be too intense, especially when my throat is already sore and sensitive. Menthol can sometimes irritate rather than soothe, making it harder for me to relax and get the relief I need. Non menthol options provide a gentler alternative that still helps ease my cough without that overpowering menthol flavor.

Another reason I prefer non menthol cough drops is that they often have more natural, mild ingredients that don’t interfere with other medications I’m taking. When I’m sick, I want a remedy that works smoothly with my body, not something that might cause extra discomfort or an unpleasant aftertaste. Non menthol drops give me the comfort I seek without any added irritation.

Finally, I appreciate that non menthol cough drops can be suitable for people who simply don’t like the taste or sensation of menthol. Having this option means I can still soothe my throat and calm my cough without forcing myself to endure a flavor or feeling I find unpleasant. For me, non menthol cough drops are a necessary alternative that helps me feel better in a way that’s just right.

My Buying Guides on Non Menthol Cough Drops

When I was searching for non menthol cough drops, I realized there are several factors to consider to find the best one that suits my needs. Here’s what I learned and what helped me make a good choice.

Why Choose Non Menthol Cough Drops?

I prefer non menthol cough drops because menthol can sometimes irritate my throat or cause a cooling sensation that I don’t find soothing. Non menthol options often use different ingredients to relieve cough and soothe my throat without that strong menthol taste or feeling.

Check the Active Ingredients

The first thing I look at is the active ingredient. Some common alternatives include honey, eucalyptus, benzocaine, or natural herbal extracts. Each has a different effect:

  • Honey-based drops are gentle and great for soothing.
  • Benzocaine provides mild numbing to ease throat pain.
  • Herbal extracts like slippery elm or licorice root can be calming and natural.

I always choose based on what works best for my symptoms and personal preferences.

Flavor and Taste

Since these drops don’t have menthol, the flavor can vary widely. I found that fruity or honey flavors are more pleasant for me. Some brands offer unique flavors like cherry, lemon, or ginger, which can make the experience more enjoyable.

Allergies and Sensitivities

I pay close attention to the ingredient list to avoid anything that might trigger allergies. For example, if I’m sensitive to artificial colors or sweeteners, I look for drops that are free from those. Natural or organic options tend to be gentler on my system.

Effectiveness and Relief Duration

I look for reviews or product information on how long the relief lasts. Some drops provide quick but short-term relief, while others may soothe the throat over a longer period. Choosing one that matches how frequently I need relief is important.

Packaging and Convenience

Since I often carry cough drops in my bag or pocket, I prefer compact packaging that’s easy to open and reseal. Also, it’s helpful if the drops don’t stick together or melt easily.

Price and Quantity

I compare prices based on how many drops come in a pack and the quality of ingredients. Sometimes spending a bit more on a trusted brand is worth it for better relief and taste.

My Final Tips

  • Try a small pack first to see if you like the flavor and effect.
  • Avoid menthol if you’re sensitive or dislike the cooling sensation.
  • Consider natural ingredients if you want a gentler option.
  • Read user reviews for real-world feedback on effectiveness.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find non menthol cough drops that truly helped me feel better without the drawbacks I experienced with menthol varieties. Hopefully, this guide helps you do the same!

Author Profile

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Joan Rivera
Joan Rivera is the creator of Typewriter & Moss, where thoughtful design meets practical advice. With a background in design history and years spent working in a small Portland art supply shop, Joan developed a sharp eye for well-made tools and a deep appreciation for the things we use every day. Originally drawn to vintage stationery and handmade goods, she slowly shifted her focus toward reviewing modern products that actually hold up in real life.

Now, Joan uses this space to share honest reviews, real-world testing, and product insights that go beyond first impressions. Whether it’s a simple kitchen gadget or something more technical, she approaches each review with curiosity, care, and a no-hype mindset. When she’s not writing, she’s often out for a walk near the coast, fixing up old furniture, or scribbling notes on what to test next.