Honey for Cough
Evidence-Based Natural Remedy Guide
Effectiveness
Type
food
Sources
1 cited
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How Honey Helps with Cough
Honey coats and soothes the throat, and its natural antimicrobial properties help fight infection. Studies show it reduces cough frequency and severity better than some OTC cough medicines.
🔬 What the Research Says
A 2020 systematic review in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine analyzing 14 studies found honey was superior to usual care for improving cough symptoms, particularly cough frequency and severity.
[1] Effectiveness of honey for symptomatic relief in upper respiratory tract infections — BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine (2020)
📋 How to Use
Take 1-2 tablespoons of raw honey straight, or stir into warm (not hot) tea or warm water with lemon. Your grandmother was right - honey lemon tea for a cough really works.
💊 Recommended Dosage
1-2 tablespoons as needed, up to 4 times daily. For children over 1 year: 1/2 to 1 teaspoon.
⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions
NEVER give honey to children under 12 months (botulism risk). Safe for older children and adults.
🛒 Where to Buy Honey
Wedderspoon Raw Manuka Honey
★★★★★ 4.6 · $18-28
Y.S. Eco Bee Farms Raw Honey
★★★★★ 4.5 · $8-12
Other Natural Remedies for Cough
Other Conditions Honey Helps
Sore Throat
Honey's thick consistency coats the throat, providing immediate soothing relief. Its natural antimic...
Ear Infection
Honey has broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria that cause ear infections. Its anti...
Cold & Flu
Honey soothes cough and sore throat associated with colds, while its antimicrobial properties help f...
Allergies
Local honey may help desensitize the immune system to local pollen allergens through gradual exposur...
📚 Sources
- Effectiveness of honey for symptomatic relief in upper respiratory tract infections — BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine (2020)
Last reviewed: February 2026 · Medical disclaimer applies
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