Honey identified as effective natural remedy for coughs

Medical studies and health organizations suggest that honey is a highly effective natural remedy for relieving acute coughs caused by upper respiratory infections. Research analyzed by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) indicates that honey can significantly reduce bothersome coughs in children and adolescents aged 1 to 17 years.

According to Cochrane, honey is likely more effective than no treatment at all for improving cough symptoms and sleep disturbances in children. In some studies, its effects were found to be comparable to dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in pharmaceutical cough syrups. Australian medical guidelines also recommend honey for children over 12 months old before using over-the-counter medications.

While other herbal options like thyme or ivy preparations have shown some benefit over placebos, the quality of evidence for these remains low. Health experts recommend taking a teaspoon of honey plain or dissolved in a warm drink before bed. However, honey must never be given to infants under one year of age due to the risk of infant botulism.