Honey
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A sweet substance made by bees from flower nectar, composed mostly of sugars along with small amounts of enzymes, pollen, and other plant-derived compounds.
Why it’s used
Taken by mouth, often stirred into tea or taken plain, to soothe a sore throat or ease coughing.
What the evidence is for
easing cough frequency and severity in children with upper respiratory infections.
What the evidence says
A Cochrane systematic review found honey may reduce cough frequency and severity in children with upper respiratory infections compared to no treatment, and the World Health Organization has listed it among options for cough symptom relief. Evidence is strongest for short-term cough symptoms rather than any broader health claim, and honey should not be given to infants under one year due to a botulism risk unrelated to this evidence question.
Context
Trials generally use honey taken in small spoonful-sized amounts before bedtime for a few nights, in children old enough to safely consume it.
Educational information, not medical or safety advice. Consult a professional for allergies or medical concerns.