Is honey better than cough syrup?

For upper respiratory infections, yes. A 2020 systematic review in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine analyzed 14 studies and found honey was superior to usual care (including antibiotics and over-the-counter cough medicines) for reducing cough frequency and severity.

What natural remedies help a dry cough?

Honey (1-2 teaspoons), marshmallow root tea, and slippery elm lozenges are effective for dry coughs. These remedies coat the throat and reduce irritation. Honey should not be given to children under 1 year.

How does ginger help with coughing?

Ginger contains compounds (gingerols and shogaols) that relax airway smooth muscles and suppress the cough reflex. A 2020 study showed ginger extract significantly reduced cough in patients with respiratory infections.

Natural Remedies for Cough

Time-tested natural remedies to soothe coughs, from honey to herbal teas. Below you'll find evidence-based remedies that grandmothers have used for generations, now verified by modern medical research.

📚 2 sources cited🌿 2 remedies reviewed

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1. Honey

★★★★★

Did this remedy work for you?

How It Helps

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.

💊 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.

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Wedderspoon Raw Manuka Honey

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Read the full Honey for Cough guide →

🫚

2. Ginger

★★★★★

Did this remedy work for you?

How It Helps

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antitussive (cough-suppressing) properties. It relaxes airway smooth muscles and may reduce the urge to cough.

🔬 What the Research Says

Research in the American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology (2013) showed ginger compounds relax airway smooth muscle, supporting its traditional use as a cough remedy.

[1] Ginger and its constituents: role in airway smooth muscle relaxation - American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology (2013)

📋 How to Use

Brew strong ginger tea: grate 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, steep in boiling water for 10-15 minutes, add honey and lemon. Drink 2-3 cups daily.

💊 Dosage

1-2 tablespoons fresh grated ginger per cup of tea, 2-3 cups daily.

⚠️ Side Effects & Cautions

Generally safe. May cause mild heartburn. Avoid excessive amounts during pregnancy.

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Read the full Ginger for Cough guide →

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Last reviewed: February 2026