Honey has been utilized for centuries as the best natural remedy to address various health issues, including coughs. It possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in soothing the throat and reducing inflammation. Moreover, honey acts as a natural expectorant, facilitating the loosening of mucus and making it easier to expel through coughing.
Benefits of Honey for Cough
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Honey can be used as a natural replacement for over-the-counter cough medications. Its medicinal properties help soothe the throat, facilitate smooth breathing, and stimulate mucus clearance in various respiratory conditions.
Some of the benefits of honey to aid cough include;
Reduce Inflammation: Honey’s rich content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds suppresses pro-inflammatory activity. This property can assist in reducing inflammation in the bronchial tubes, leading to improved breathing.
Natural Suppressant: Honey contains dextromethorphan, a component used as a cough suppressant to alleviate nighttime cough flares.
Natural Anti-tussive: Honey is recognized for its antitussive properties, making it highly effective in alleviating dry and persistent coughs. Antitussive components can influence specific regions of the brain to suppress the cough reflex and the urge to cough.
Natural expectorant: Honey contains proteolytic enzymes that play a crucial role in breaking down peptide bonds. These enzymes facilitate the fluidization of mucus, aiding in its breakdown from the airways and lungs. Thus, it makes it easier to expel out the mucus or phlegm through coughing.
Treat Infection: Honey’s antibacterial properties make it effective in both treating and preventing respiratory infections and productive coughs. Its viscous nature creates a protective barrier against bacteria, hindering infection. Additionally, its glucose content and low pH stimulate macrophage activity to kill the bacteria.
Protect Airways: Honey varieties serve as a natural source of antioxidants, which combat free radicals and protect the airways from damage. It not only helps in protecting the lung linings but also contributes to a reduction in the frequency and severity of coughs.
Help in Dry Coughs: Honey is particularly beneficial in alleviating dry coughs. Its inherent thickness acts as a soothing coating for the irritated throat, providing relief from the dry, scratchy sensation. Its ability to stimulate saliva production aids in maintaining moisture and lubrication, which is especially effective in asthmatic patients.
Recommended Daily Adult Honey Dosage for Cough:
The amount of honey to consume for alleviating a cough can vary in adults based on age. However, the common guideline is to take 1 to 2 teaspoons or 2 to 5 mL of honey as needed throughout the day or when experiencing cough flares.
How to Use Honey for Cough
Honey is a very effective treatment for various respiratory issues. However, it’s important to determine if you have any allergies to honey before use. Some ways to consume honey at home are:
Honey and Cinnamon Cough Syrup
To make this remedy for persistent cough and mucus;
Ingredients: Half a cup of honey and one-fourth cup of cinnamon.
Method: Mix the honey and cinnamon and store the mixture. Consume it twice a day.
Honey Lemonade to Break Mucus
For making this cough suppressant;
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, ¼ cup warm water, and ½ cup honey.
Method: Mix lemon juice and honey with warm water to create a soothing honey lemonade.
Herbal Teas in Honey for Phlegm
To make this expectorant remedy;
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon of honey.
Method: Add honey to your favorite herbal tea for extra relief. Consume as needed, especially during a cough or before bedtime.
Black Pepper and Honey for Fast Cough Relieve
To relieve cough fast, prepare the home remedy;
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon pepper powder and hot water.
Method: Mix honey and black pepper with hot water to create an effective remedy.
Conclusion:
Honey acts as a safe, affordable, and effective natural remedy for cough. It contains anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial agents that help in managing chronic, persistent, or dry coughs. Individuals who seek alternatives to medications and prefer natural or healthy options can benefit from its nutritional components.
FAQs
1. Can you give honey to infants for coughs?
It is generally not recommended to give honey to infants under the age of one year. Honey may contain toxins, which can lead to botulism, as a child’s digestive system is underdeveloped.
2. What is the best time to consume honey for a cough?
You can consume honey at any time of the day when experiencing a cough. However, the best time is before bedtime, as during sleep, honey has more time to exert its effects on the inflamed throat.
3. How often do you give honey for a cough?
You can consume honey 4 to 5 times per day. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before incorporating, especially if you have any allergies.
4. Which kind of honey is best for a toddler’s cough?
It is crucial to use pasteurized honey for children over 12 months to prevent the risk of any digestive discomfort.
