Can Honey Help a Cough?

Can Honey Help a Cough? The antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties of raw honey boost the immune system and combat coughing. The throat and nose are covered with thin skin called mucous membranes that secrete thick fluid known as mucus that traps dirt and germs. When these layers are compromised, the bacteria and viruses that cause coughing can build up, causing inflammation and prolonging the coughing process. Honey contains the same antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties as a vitamin C supplement.

Cochrane Review

Researchers looked at a few studies to find out. The study compared honey with other treatments for a cough. Honey was more effective than diphenhydramine, salbutamol, or dextromethorphan. The study also looked at the effects of honey versus placebo. Two of the studies even showed that honey relieved cough symptoms better than placebo. But it’s not entirely clear what the benefits of honey were.

A recent study in the Cochrane database looked at the effectiveness of honey for cough. Researchers excluded studies that involved patients with significant co-morbidities or who had symptoms suggestive of other diseases. There are only limited data on the use of honey in other pathologies. A physician should be aware of any side effects a patient may experience, including allergic reactions. And patients with a history of infant botulism should avoid honey.

Effectiveness

A recent study published in the BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine journal found that using honey as a remedy for cough reduced the frequency and severity of the condition. This treatment is effective without causing side effects and is a safe alternative to antibiotics. Honey has long been used as a cough remedy. It contains powerful antioxidants and is a natural cough suppressant. Honey may be a great choice for colds, coughs, and flu.

Some studies show that honey is effective in reducing the inflammation in the airway that causes coughing. While it is not clear exactly how honey affects cough, two leading hypotheses focus on increasing salivation and impacting the nerves that control coughing. Either way, it helps to reduce coughing, which can greatly improve a person’s quality of life. Honey also has other benefits, including reducing the severity and duration of coughing fits.

Side effects

The National Honey Board partially funded the study, which is the first of its kind to compare the efficacy of honey and dextromethorphan for the treatment of coughing. Its grant allowed for any kind of research, so as long as it benefited people with cough, it was accepted. Among other things, it improved the frequency and severity of coughing. In one study, honey shortened the duration of the cough by up to two days. However, because honey is a complex product, more studies are needed before conclusive conclusions can be drawn.

Honey is effective for treating cough and sore throats, but it comes with some side effects. A recent study found that honey may cause hyperactivity in children who already suffer from asthma. Other side effects of honey included a slight increase in hyperactivity in children. But the benefits of honey for cough relief outweigh its side effects. Honey is used to treat cough and sore throats since ancient times. It has an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide, an antibacterial agent. However, the sticky type of honey may be more effective for sore throats and coughs.

Cost

While many people believe that honey for cough is an effective treatment, there is still no scientific evidence that proves it. However, honey is inexpensive and widely available, and it has a positive reputation as an anti-microbial. The National Honey Board has a grant that goes to any type of research. The study led by Abuelgasim was partly funded by the National Honey Board and the University of Chicago. The study found that honey improved cough symptoms as well as the ability to sleep. The authors also found that honey was safer than other cough medicines.

Besides being relatively cheap, honey is an ideal alternative to traditional medical care when it comes to treating cold and cough symptoms. This natural remedy is readily available and has virtually no side effects. It is a good alternative to antibiotics, and doctors can recommend honey as an alternative. People with respiratory tract infections typically experience a sore throat, cough, and other symptoms. If these symptoms are severe, doctors may prescribe cough and cold medications.