Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Honey has a long history of traditional use for soothing coughs and cold symptoms, but there is also scientific evidence supporting its efficacy, particularly for cough relief in colds. Several clinical studies, including randomized controlled trials, have demonstrated that honey can reduce the frequency and severity of cough in children with upper respiratory tract infections. The World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics both acknowledge honey as a potential remedy for cough in children over one year old. The proposed mechanisms include honey’s demulcent effect, which soothes irritated throat tissues, its mild anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and its ability to increase saliva production, which may reduce throat irritation and coughing.

However, honey is not a direct decongestant; it does not physiologically reduce nasal congestion in the way that pharmaceutical decongestants do. Its main benefit is in symptom relief—especially cough suppression and throat soothing—which can contribute to a subjective improvement in cold symptoms. There is insufficient evidence to support honey as an effective treatment for nasal congestion specifically. Importantly, honey should not be given to children under one year due to the risk of infant botulism. Overall, while honey is not a cure for the common cold, scientific evidence does support its use as a supportive remedy for certain cold symptoms, particularly cough.

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