A lot of people who wish to switch to natural remedies for treating their cough wonder if can honey cure cough. Honey has been used as a natural cough remedy for soothing sore throats and relieving coughs for ages. It is one of the oldest and traditional methods to fight cough and has its mention in Ayurveda, as well as traditional Chinese and Western medicines. Honey for cough has proven to be quite effective as it helps in fighting congestion and provides relief to the irritated throat. Thus the answer to the question is honey good for cough is a big yes.
Benefits of Honey for Cough
Here are a few properties and benefits of honey for sore throat –
- Thickness and texture: Honey has a thick, viscous consistency that creates a layer over the throat when consumed. This layer provides a soothing sensation to the sore throat and soothes the irritated tissues of the throat.
- Anti-microbial Properties: Honey contains natural antimicrobial compounds that can help combat bacterial and viral infections. These properties may help prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms in the throat.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Honey has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the inflammation caused to your throat due to constant coughing.
- Mucus Clearance: Some types of honey may have expectorant effects, helping to thin mucus and promote its expulsion from the airways. This helps relieve cough and congestion.
How does honey help with a cough?
Honey can be used in various ways to soothe your sore throat and relieve cough. Here are a few commonly used methods –
- Honey and Warm Water: Mixing 1-2 tablespoons of honey into a cup of warm water and drinking it helps soothe your throat and alleviate coughing. The warmth of the water provides additional relief.
- Honey and Lemon: Combining honey with fresh lemon juice in warm water works wonders in soothing a sore throat. Lemon is rich in vitamin C and has additional soothing properties.
- Honey and Ginger: Ginger tea with added honey can help relieve sore throat and fight chest congestion. Ginger has additional anti-inflammatory and throat-soothing properties while honey contains anti-oxidants which together are a great combination to fight cough.
- Honey by Itself: Consuming a spoonful of honey directly just like a cough syrup can help coat and soothe the throat and prevent coughing. It can be consumed just like cough syrups.
Honey Based Cough Syrups and Cough Drops
Because of the multiple benefits that honey possesses, a lot of Herbal and Ayurvedic brands have started offering honey-based cough remedies such as cough syrups and cough drops. They provide immediate relief to the sore throat and also help boost immunity as a result of other natural ingredients present in them.
These honey-based cough medicines have proven to be quite effective in treating different kinds of coughs including both productive and non-productive coughs, without causing any side effects.
Dabur Honitus herbal cough remedy is one of the best options available in the market if you wish to try an Ayurvedic cough syrup which is honey-based.
Dos and Don’ts of Honey Consumption
- Infants under 1 year of age should not be given honey, as it may pose a risk of botulism
- People having diabetes should keep a watch on their honey intake as it may increase their blood sugar levels
- Raw, unprocessed honey should be used when possible, as it retains more of its beneficial properties compared to processed options
Be Cautious
While Honey is a natural ingredient and usually doesn’t have any side effects, some people might be sensitive to specific components in Honey. Hence, it is important to be cautious while consuming honey or bringing it into daily use. If you see any signs of allergic reactions, wheezing, or other symptoms, it is recommended that you consult a medical professional to check the suitability of honey for your particular condition.
Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice.