For centuries honey has been used as a home remedy to treat coughs and colds, now the research backs this up! Research suggests that honey is more effective than many over-the-counter medicines, studies indicate that:
Honey may be better than conventional treatments for coughs, blocked noses and sore throats. It is good value for money, readily available, and has virtually no side-effects.
Honey was more effective than usual care for improving symptoms, especially the frequency and severity of coughing. Two of the studies showed that symptoms lasted one to two days less among those treated with honey.
“Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are the most frequent reason for antibiotic prescription. Since the majority of URTIs are viral, antibiotic prescription is both ineffective and inappropriate.” Honey might therefore provide an alternative when doctors want to prescribe something to safely treat upper respiratory tract symptoms.
“Honey is more effective and less harmful than usual care alternatives and avoids causing harm through antimicrobial resistance.”
