Honey has been cherished for its soothing properties for centuries, especially when it comes to alleviating coughs. Its natural sweetness not only makes it a delicious remedy, but it also acts as a humectant, helping to retain moisture in the throat and provide relief from irritation. Here are three practical examples of how you can use honey to ease your cough.
When you’re feeling under the weather, sometimes a simple remedy is the best. Mixing honey with warm water can be incredibly soothing for a sore throat and cough.
To create this comforting elixir, take a cup of warm water (not boiling, as extreme heat can destroy some of honey’s beneficial properties). Add about 1-2 tablespoons of raw honey to the water and stir until it’s fully dissolved. Drink this mixture two to three times a day to help reduce coughing and soothe your throat. This drink can be particularly soothing before bedtime, helping you get a restful night’s sleep.
Notes: You can enhance this remedy by adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for extra vitamin C and flavor. If you want a bit more spice, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or a sprinkle of cinnamon for additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
Herbal teas can be a fantastic way to hydrate and help relieve coughing. Adding honey to your favorite herbal tea can create a powerful cough suppressant.
Start by brewing a cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint, according to package instructions. Once your tea is brewed, let it cool slightly (again, to preserve honey’s properties). Add one tablespoon of honey and stir well. Sip this tea slowly to allow the warmth to soothe your throat while the honey works its magic against the cough. You can enjoy this remedy 1-2 times a day, particularly when you’re feeling congested or have a persistent cough.
Notes: Feel free to experiment with different herbal teas based on your taste preference. Ginger tea is a great option as it can also help with inflammation, while licorice root tea has traditionally been used to soothe coughs.
For those who appreciate a bit of tanginess, combining honey with apple cider vinegar can create a powerful tonic to help suppress coughs.
To make this tonic, mix 1 tablespoon of raw honey with 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of warm water. Stir until the honey is dissolved. This mixture can be taken once or twice a day, especially when you feel a cough coming on. The vinegar complements the honey’s soothing properties and is also known for its potential health benefits.
Notes: If the taste is too strong, you can adjust the ratio of honey to vinegar according to your preference. Remember that this tonic is not suitable for everyone, especially those with certain medical conditions, so it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure.