Impressive Health Benefits Of Manuka Honey

Reduces Coughing

Anecdotal evidence and scientific studies both indicate manuka honey reduces coughing. Coughing is the body's way of clearing mucus, and a cough can be dry or productive (with phlegm). A study of children with upper respiratory infections and coughing showed administering as much as two teaspoons (ten milliliters) of honey near bedtime resulted in decreased nighttime coughing and improved sleep. The study compared the effectiveness of the honey to dextromethorphan, a common over-the-counter cough suppressant, and both were found to be equally effective for cough suppression. Health organizations in the United Kingdom routinely advocate the use of honey (including manuka honey) as the first line of treatment for coughs and sore throats, and experts believe manuka honey could be a valuable tool in treating minor respiratory illnesses without the use of antibiotics. Since manuka honey contains sugar, patients with diabetes may wish to consult their doctors about how it could impact their blood sugar readings. Clinicians also recommend that honey is not given to children under one year of age due to the small risk infant botulism, a serious form of food poisoning.