Honey possesses remarkably beneficial medicinal properties that can aid in alleviating symptoms of common illnesses. Its natural antioxidants, enzymes, and antibacterial properties make it an ideal therapeutic remedy for a sore throat or cough, often experienced during sickness. Honey soothes the inflamed throat lining, reduces cough frequency, and improves sleep. Furthermore, it helps in boosting the body’s immune system, facilitating quicker recovery. Honey should not be given to children under one year of age due to the risk of botulism.
A study published in The British Medical Journal compared honey to standard medical treatments for upper respiratory tract infection symptoms, including cough frequency, cough severity, sleep difficulty, and congestion.
Results showed that using honey for symptom relief appeared more effective than other common remedies, including antibiotics. Honey showed more benefits than taking cough suppressants, too.