Recently, after we all went to bed, I heard Mathew coughing and asked him if he would like some honey. He earnestly replied, “PLEASE!” Within moments of taking a half of a teaspoon, the coughing had subsided and he fell asleep. The rest of the night was peaceful. I love when that happens. Raw honey (be sure it’s raw as commercial honey growers often supplement the bees with sugar water, which dilutes the medicinal qualities of the honey) is one of my favorite remedies for coughs and it is so simple. A close second is Garlic oil on the bottom of the feet.

For over a thousand years, people having using honey as a sweetener and remedy. Nevertheless, after a study in 2012, it has become even more popular, if you can believe that.  Researchers found honey to be as effective as dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in cough suppressant found in many over-the-counter cold medications. The “recent discovery” of raw honey made national news because the FDA was moving to ban many children’s cold medications due to their ineffectiveness coupled with dangerous side effects. Of course, the magic of honey is not “new” news but it is important to spread the word nonetheless.

Although the 2012 study was not clear exactly how honey eases a cough, it found it helpful regardless. Perhaps when you combine honey’s soothing sweetness, which coats the throat with its antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and expectorant qualities, you can find part of the answer.

Although the 2012 study focused on children, it also works well for adults and seniors. This summer my Dad was having a rough time. He has congestive heart failure and prone to fluid retention around his lungs. As a result, he had coughing fits. Although his doctors tried to provide him with many tools/medicines, he found no relief. That is until he tried raw honey. The results were miraculous. He had his first good night sleep after just one teaspoon. His cardiologist was so impressed that he wrote the remedy down, so he was sure not to forget.

So if you need a restful sleep from that irritating cough, be sure to keep your honey near by.

All information is shared for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.