Benefits of Honey for Cough Relief
Does Honey Help for Cough?
As winter approaches in South Africa, many people seek remedies to alleviate the discomfort of seasonal illnesses, especially flu and the coughing that goes with it.
Coughs are among the most common symptoms experienced during this time of year.
One natural remedy that has been widely discussed is honey. But does honey really help for cough?
Let’s look at the benefits of honey, how it works to soothe a cough, and the best ways to use it.
The Benefits of Honey for Cough
Honey has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments.
Its soothing properties make it a popular choice for treating coughs and sore throats.
Here are some reasons why honey is beneficial for coughs:
Antibacterial Properties
Honey is known for its antibacterial properties.
It contains hydrogen peroxide and other antimicrobial agents that can help kill bacteria.
This is particularly useful for coughs caused by bacterial infections.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Honey has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the throat.
This can alleviate the irritation that causes coughing, making it easier to breathe and speak.
Soothing Effect
The thick, viscous nature of honey coats the throat, providing a soothing effect.
This can help reduce the urge to cough and provide relief from a sore throat.
Antioxidants
Honey is rich in antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system.
A stronger immune system can fight off infections more effectively, reducing the duration and severity of a cough.
Natural and Safe
Honey is a natural remedy with minimal side effects when used appropriately.
It is a safe option for most people, including children over one year old and older adults.
How Honey Works to Soothe a Cough
Honey works in several ways to help soothe a cough:
- Coating the Throat: The thick consistency of honey coats the throat, reducing irritation and calming the cough reflex.
- Moisturizing: Honey helps to keep the throat moist, which can prevent dryness and further irritation.
- Antimicrobial Action: Honey’s antimicrobial properties can help fight the infection causing the cough, particularly if it is due to a bacterial source.
- Immune Boosting: The antioxidants in honey support the immune system, helping the body to recover more quickly.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Honey for Cough
Several studies have supported the use of honey as an effective remedy for coughs:
Honey appears to be at least as effective as dextromethorphan in relieving coughs, especially compared to no treatment. In South Africa, Benylin is the most common cough medicine that contains dextromethorphan.
No studies have shown a significant difference between honey and dextromethorphan in terms of cough relief, but commercial cough relive medicines are subject to human error and contamination and sometimes need to be recalled.
Honey may be preferable due to its potential for fewer side effects than dextromethorphan.
While honey helps in suppressing coughs, there is no cure for the common winter flu. We can only treat the symptoms of flu, such as coughs, and honey is good for that purpose.
Buckwheat honey has been shown to reduce the frequency of cough.
Most research has been done with a placebo as the control, which means that the people tested with real honey showed a more positive result than the people tested with medicine (placebo) that they believed contained honey but in fact did not.
How to Use Honey for Cough
There are several ways to use honey to relieve a cough:
Direct Consumption
Taking a spoonful of honey on its own can provide quick relief for a cough. Simply consume one teaspoon of honey every few hours as needed.
This method is particularly effective for soothing a sore throat and calming the cough reflex.
Honey and Warm Water
Mixing honey with warm water can help soothe a cough and keep the throat hydrated.
Add one to two teaspoons of honey to a cup of warm water and drink it slowly.
This mixture can be consumed several times a day.
Honey and Lemon
Combining honey with lemon can provide additional benefits.
Lemon is rich in vitamin C, which can boost the immune system. Mix one to two teaspoons of honey with the juice of half a lemon in a cup of warm water. Drink this mixture two to three times a day for relief.
Honey and Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can complement the soothing effects of honey.
Grate a small piece of fresh ginger and steep it in hot water for a few minutes. Strain the ginger, then add one to two teaspoons of honey to the ginger tea. Drink this mixture two to three times a day.
Honey and Herbal Teas
Herbal teas such as chamomile or peppermint can be enhanced with honey for additional soothing effects.
Brew a cup of herbal tea and add one to two teaspoons of honey. Sip the tea slowly to soothe the throat and reduce coughing.
Safety Precautions
While honey is generally safe for most people, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:
- Children under one year old should not consume honey due to the risk of botulism, a rare but serious form of food poisoning.
- While honey is a safe and effective remedy for coughs in children over one year old, it is important to use it in the appropriate dosage. Here are some guidelines:
- Ages 1-5: Give 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of honey as needed to soothe the cough. This can be given up to four times a day.
- Ages 6-11: Give 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of honey as needed to soothe the cough. This dosage can also be administered up to four times a day.
- Ages 12 and older: The dosage for older children and adults can be increased to 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of honey as needed, up to four times a day.
- These dosages provide a safe and effective amount of honey to help relieve cough symptoms. Always ensure the honey is natural and not processed with added sugars or preservatives.
- Allergies: Some people may be allergic to honey or pollen. If you experience any allergic reactions such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, discontinue use and seek medical attention.
- Diabetes: Honey is high in natural sugars and should be used with caution by individuals with diabetes. It is best to consult a healthcare provider before using honey as a remedy.
- For individuals with diabetes, using honey as a cough suppressant requires caution due to its high natural sugar content. Here are some alternatives that are suitable for diabetics:
- Sugar-Free Cough Syrups
- There are several sugar-free cough syrups available over-the-counter that are specifically formulated for individuals with diabetes. These syrups provide relief without affecting blood sugar levels.
- Herbal Teas
- Herbal teas such as peppermint, chamomile, and licorice root can be effective in soothing coughs. These teas can be sweetened with a small amount of stevia, a natural sugar substitute that does not raise blood sugar levels.
- Saline Gargles
- Gargling with warm saline water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle several times a day.
- Steam Inhalation
- Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can help loosen mucus and soothe the respiratory tract. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil or peppermint oil can enhance the effects.
- Lozenges and Hard Candy
- Sugar-free lozenges and hard candy can help keep the throat moist and reduce the urge to cough. Look for options that contain soothing ingredients like menthol or eucalyptus.
When to See a Doctor
While honey and other natural remedies can be effective for mild to moderate coughs, it is important to recognize when professional medical advice is needed.
You should see a doctor if:
- Cough Persists Beyond Three Weeks: A persistent cough that lasts more than three weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out underlying conditions.
- Severe Symptoms: If the cough is accompanied by severe symptoms such as high fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or coughing up blood, seek immediate medical attention.
- Worsening Condition: If the cough worsens over time instead of improving, it could indicate a more serious infection or condition that requires medical intervention.
- Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, or weakened immune systems should see a doctor if they develop a cough, as these conditions can complicate the illness.
- Children and Elderly: Special care should be taken with young children and the elderly, as they are more vulnerable to complications from respiratory infections. If a child or elderly person has a persistent or severe cough, consult a healthcare provider.
Both raw and treated honey can be effective in suppressing coughs. The choice between the two comes down to personal preference.
If you are concerned about the potential for bacteria in raw honey, then treated honey may be a better option. However, if you prefer a more natural product, then raw honey may be a good choice.
Conclusion
Honey is a time-tested natural remedy that can effectively soothe a cough.
Its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties make it an excellent choice for relieving coughs and sore throats. Whether consumed on its own or mixed with other ingredients, honey can provide much-needed relief during the winter months in South Africa.
However, it is important to use honey safely and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or underlying health conditions.
Note: This article is not health advice. Consult your doctor if you have any doubt as to you or your child’s cough.