Best Honey for Coughs

WHO Recommendations

The World Health Organization (WHO) lists honey as a demulcent remedy for cough symptoms. Studies show honey can be as effective as some over-the-counter cough suppressants, particularly for reducing cough frequency and intensity in children and adults.

Clinical Evidence

Multiple peer-reviewed studies demonstrate honey's effectiveness for cough relief. A landmark study in JAMA Pediatrics found that honey was more effective than dextromethorphan (a common cough medicine) at reducing nighttime cough in children. Honey works by coating the throat and soothing irritation.

Why Buckwheat Honey?

Buckwheat honey contains higher levels of antioxidants and compounds that provide additional throat-soothing benefits compared to lighter honeys. Studies specifically examining buckwheat honey for cough found it particularly effective due to its darker color and higher mineral content, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Best Practices for Taking Honey

• Take honey straight or mix with warm (not hot) tea or lemon water
• Avoid heat above 140°F, which can degrade beneficial compounds
• For best results, consume on an empty stomach or before bed
• Continue for 5-7 days or until cough improves
• Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water throughout the day

Honey Lemon Tea

Mix 1-2 tablespoons honey with the juice of half a lemon in 8 oz warm water. The vitamin C from lemon and throat-coating properties of honey make this a soothing combination. Ginger can be added for additional warming benefits.

Honey Ginger Throat Coat

Simmer 1-inch piece of fresh ginger in water for 10 minutes, strain, and add 1-2 tablespoons honey. Ginger's natural anti-inflammatory properties combined with honey's soothing effect provide comprehensive throat support.

Honey & Apple Cider Vinegar

Combine 1-2 tablespoons honey with 1 tablespoon raw apple cider vinegar in 8 oz warm water. This traditional remedy combines honey's soothing action with vinegar's potential respiratory support benefits.

Honey & Thyme Tea

Steep dried thyme in hot water for 5 minutes, strain, and add honey. Thyme has traditional use for respiratory health and pairs beautifully with honey's throat-coating properties for a potent cough remedy.

Honey & Children Under 1 Year

Honey can contain Clostridium botulinum spores that cause infant botulism. This condition is rare but serious. Never give honey (in any form, including honey in cough remedies) to babies under 12 months old. This restriction applies only to infants—honey is safe for all ages 1 year and older.

Allergies & Sensitivities

If you have bee pollen allergies, start with a small amount of honey to test tolerance. People with bee pollen sensitivities may react to raw honey with visible pollen. Processed honeys may be better tolerated in some cases. Consult an allergist if concerned.

Honey & Diabetes

Honey is primarily sugar (glucose and fructose) and will raise blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before consuming honey as a remedy, as it may impact blood sugar control.