Honey to Stop Cough: Benefits and Uses

Whenever the season changes I get a cough. My doctor said it was just an allergy and I could use medication to treat it. But they make me feel drowsy. So, my mother prescribed me honey to stop the cough. It is a natural food produced by bees. It not only adds sweetness to dishes or drinks, but also has many health benefits. So, when my mother told me to eat honey to get rid of cough, I listened to her advice. It definitely helped me. But does science support this home remedy for cough?

What are the health benefits of honey?

Nutritionist Sania Simon says that honey contains various substances such as sugars (mainly glucose and fructose), water, amino acids, vitamins such as vitamin C and B-complex vitamins. It also contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, potassium and enzymes like glucose oxidase. Honey also contains other bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids that contribute to its health benefits.

Here are some benefits of honey:

• Its antioxidant properties help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reduce oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• The antimicrobial properties of honey, attributed to substances such as hydrogen peroxide and phenolic compounds, are effective against various pathogens including bacteria, viruses and fungi.
• The anti-inflammatory properties of honey help reduce inflammation in the body, contributing to the management of conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

How does honey help stop cough?

According to a study published in 2007, honey can help treat cough and sleep problems associated with childhood upper respiratory infections. JAMA Pediatricsanother study published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine The journal found that honey was superior to usual care for improving symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. According to a 2020 study, honey offers a cheaper alternative to antibiotics.

The soothing effect of honey on the throat and its antimicrobial properties help reduce cough symptoms, says an expert. It forms a protective layer over the sore throat, reducing irritation and promoting healing. The antimicrobial properties of honey may also help fight the underlying infection causing the cough.

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What is the best time to drink honey to stop cough?

Honey is most effective in reducing cough symptoms when taken before bedtime, says Simon. Consuming honey before going to sleep will coat the throat and provide relief throughout the night. By forming a protective layer over a sore throat, honey helps to reduce irritation and suppress coughs, facilitating better sleep. Also, taking honey before bed can help improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing nighttime disturbances caused by coughing.

But make sure to give honey only to children above one year of age. A single dose of 2.5 ml of honey can be given to them before bedtime, the expert said. As for adults, they can consume honey as needed, but it is important to consume it in moderation due to its calorie content.

How to use honey to treat cough?

Honey can be consumed straight or mixed with warm water, lemon juice or herbal teas for added relief. It can also be mixed with other ingredients like ginger or cinnamon for better therapeutic effects.

What are the side effects of honey?

Honey is generally safe for consumption, but a primary concern is the risk of infant botulism, experts say. This is a rare but serious condition that occurs in children under one year of age who have had hives. This is due to the presence of Clostridium botulinum spores, which thrive in the infant’s digestive tract and produce toxins. That is why it is recommended not to give honey to children under one year of age.

When it comes to older children and adults, moderate consumption is best to avoid weight gain.

Honey is an effective way to get rid of cough, but make sure not to overdo it.