Honey for Cough

Honey is thought to be helpful in relieving cough because of its various antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been suggested that due to its viscous nature it coats the throat causing a soothing effect. 

Although cough is a normal protective mechanism whereby we clear secretions and foreign bodies from our airways, it can cause considerable distress and anxiety, alongside days lost from school and work, as well as taking up doctors’ appointments. Simple, safe remedies which do not need a prescription can be helpful. This review shows that honey is probably effective in relieving cough symptoms and may be at least as effective as some OTC preparations.

And, what’s more, it’s delicious!

NICE and PHE found evidence from 3 randomised controlled trials, all of which looked at using honey in children and young people. Two of the studies compared it with no treatment, and one allowed "supportive treatment" if needed, which included saline (salt water), nose drops, water vapour and paracetamol.

In both comparisons, children given honey coughed less often and had less severe coughs compared with those given no treatment. No study found any difference in quality of sleep for either the children or for their adult carers. The quality of the evidence found was classified as low to moderate.
This evidence led NICE and PHE to suggest that honey can be used to relieve cough symptoms, but only in people over 1 year of age. It should not be given to children under the age of 1 due to the risks of infant botulism (a rare and serious type of food poisoning that can affect babies). The guideline also noted that honey is a sugar and therefore can pose a risk of tooth decay.

The ‘home remedy’ of hot lemon and honey is promoted in advice from both the British Thoracic Society and NHS Choices. However, honey is not recommended for children under 12 months of age and care must be exercised with hot liquids.

While there are many over-the-counter cough medicines that include honey, you can also mix it with hot lemon yourself at home to obtain a similar effect:

• squeeze half a lemon into a mug of boiled water
• add 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey
• drink while still warm (don't give hot drinks to small children

Nutritionally, 1 tablespoon of honey (21 grams) contains 64 calories and 17 grams of sugar, including fructose, glucose, maltose and sucrose. It contains virtually no fiber, fat or protein (2). 

Honey is rich in and antioxidants properties.  100g of Honey provides
Nutrients: Carbohydrates 27%, Calories 15%, Dietary Fiber 1%
Vitamins: Riboflavin2%, Vitamin C 16%, Vitamin B6 1% 
Minerals: Managalese 4%, Iron 2%, Copper 2%