How to Use Honey as a Natural Cough Remedy

For centuries, people have turned to honey to soothe sore throats and calm stubborn coughs. And today, modern science backs up what traditional medicine already knew: raw honey works.

At HoneyMap.org, we’re big believers in honey’s natural healing power — especially when it’s raw, unprocessed, and locally produced. In this post, we’ll explore why honey helps with coughs, how to use it effectively, and when to seek medical attention.

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Why Honey Works for Cough Relief

Honey’s effectiveness comes down to its natural properties:

• Soothes the throat: Its thick, syrupy texture coats and calms irritated throat tissue.
• Antibacterial action: Raw honey contains hydrogen peroxide and other compounds that fight bacteria.
• Reduces inflammation: Antioxidants and phytonutrients can reduce swelling in the throat.
• Suppresses the cough reflex: Especially useful at night to reduce sleep-disrupting coughing fits.

In fact, a 2012 study published in Pediatrics found that honey was more effective than over-the-counter cough medicine in reducing nighttime cough and improving sleep in children.

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How to Use Honey for Cough Relief

Here are simple, proven ways to use honey as a natural remedy:

Straight by the Spoonful

Take 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw honey directly, as needed. Let it slowly coat your throat. This is especially effective before bed.

Honey + Lemon

Mix:

• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• Juice of half a lemon
• Optional: warm water or herbal tea

Lemon adds vitamin C and helps break up mucus.

Honey + Ginger Tea

Brew:

• 1 cup hot water
• 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger (steep for 5–10 minutes)
• Stir in 1 tablespoon honey after water cools slightly

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and adds a warming kick.

Homemade Honey Cough Syrup

Mix:

• 1/4 cup raw honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon or turmeric (optional)

Take 1–2 teaspoons every few hours for relief.

Homemade Honey-Lemon Cough Drops

Ingredients:

• 1 cup raw honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger or 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon turmeric or cinnamon
• Optional: powdered slippery elm or licorice root for extra throat support (if available)
• Organic powdered sugar or cornstarch (for dusting)

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Instructions:

1. Prep your tools
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. You’ll also want a candy thermometer and a small spoon ready.
2. Mix and heat
   In a small saucepan, combine the honey, lemon juice, and ginger. Heat on medium and stir occasionally.
3. Watch the temperature
   Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and let it bubble, stirring constantly. Use a candy thermometer to monitor until it reaches 300°F (the “hard crack” stage). Be careful — it will be very hot and sticky.
4. Remove and cool
   Once it hits temperature, remove from heat immediately. Let the bubbling settle for about 30 seconds.
5. Drop the cough drops
   Using a small spoon, carefully drop small circles of the mixture onto your lined sheet. They’ll spread slightly. Let them cool and harden fully (about 30–45 minutes).
6. Dust to prevent sticking
   Once hardened, lightly dust them with powdered sugar or cornstarch to prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Tips:

• Suck on these slowly — they’ll coat your throat and soothe irritation.
• You can also pour the hot mixture into silicone candy molds for cleaner shapes.

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A Few Important Notes

• Never give honey to children under 1 year old due to the risk of infant botulism.
• Use raw, unfiltered honey for the most benefit — pasteurized commercial honey may lack key enzymes and nutrients.
• If you have a persistent cough lasting more than 10 days, or accompanied by fever, wheezing, or shortness of breath, see a doctor.

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Final Thoughts

Honey is more than just a natural sweetener — it’s a gentle, effective remedy for coughs and sore throats. Best of all, it doesn’t come with the drowsiness or side effects of typical cough syrups.

If you want to stock your pantry with truly beneficial honey, choose raw, local options whenever possible. Browse ethical honey farms near you at HoneyMap.org and find honey that soothes, heals, and supports the beekeepers doing it right.