The sweet syrup-like food called honey has been used as a spread on toast, in treats like cookies, as a condiment for teas and even as a soother for sore throats. Some people might think of honey being used for coughs as an old wives' tale; however, research published in the "Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine" helps to support the idea that honey may be even more effective as a cough remedy than certain medications.
Cough Soothers
Syrups and cough drops are commonly used to reduce irritation while helping to lubricate the throat. The co-director of the Drug Information and Pharmacy Resource Center at the University of Florida Demulcents, Paul Doering, explained in 2007 on "ABC News" that demulcents such as honey are known to comfort the mucous membranes that are usually full of irritation during coughing fits. Honey can get rid of the pain, which causes the response of coughing.
Honey Over Medication
Honey may be able to help soothe coughs and contribute to a better night's sleep. A study reported by the "Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine" in 2007 discovered that honey was more effective at helping coughs in children than the cough medicine dextromethorphan. In the experiment, either buckwheat honey or honey-flavored dextromethorphan was given to 105 youths from the ages of 18 down to 2 years old, all of whom were suffering upper respiratory tract infections. Those given honey were reported to have much better rest and eased symptoms when compared to the honey-flavored medication. The lead study author, Dr. Ian Paul, explained on "ABC News" that this was the first time honey had been actually proven as a treatment.
Honey Benefits
One "healing power" that honey offers is its antioxidants. Paul explains that honey, particularly dark honeys, are more rich in antioxidants than honeys that are lighter. Another benefit is that honey is usually wallet friendly; cough medicines are typically more expensive. Also, unlike medications, honey does not cause drowsiness.
Warnings
During the experiment, one side effect of the honey that didn't occur in children given cough medication was that honey caused the participants to have a slight increase of restlessness or hyperactivity. Children in the experiment were at least 2 years of age; giving honey to children who are younger than 2 years may be dangerous. MayoClinic.com also warns against using honey in infants under 1 year of age, due to a type of food poisoning called infant botulism.
References
- "ABC News"; Honey Treats Coughs Better Than Drugs; Katherine Stoel Gammon; December 3, 2007
- "Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine"; Effect of Honey, Dextromethorphan and No Treatment on Nocturnal Cough and Sleep Quality for Coughing Children and Their Parents; Ian M. Paul et al.; December 12, 2007
- MayoClinic.com; Is It True That Honey Calms Coughs Better Than Cough Medicine Does?; James M. Steckelberg; March 18, 2010
