How does honey affect colds?

Colds are among the conditions whose duration is often independent of the therapeutic measures used. They usually last a few days, during which time it is only possible to reduce their severity by alleviating some of the symptoms with food, dietary supplements and/or pharmacological preparations. One example of a natural remedy that can help you get through a cold is honey.

1. What is a cold?
2. What are the properties of honey?
3. How does honey help with colds?

What is a cold?

A cold is the colloquial name for an upper respiratory tract infection, most often caused by viruses. These infections are accompanied by symptoms such as a runny nose, sinus pain, cough, sore throat and hoarseness, or general weakness, headache and muscle pain, or disturbances in smell, taste and appetite.

Depending on the condition of the body when it is attacked by viruses, a cold can last from a few days to several weeks, and sometimes it can develop into more serious health conditions, such as pneumonia.

When you lead a healthy lifestyle and your body is well nourished, colds can sometimes pass almost unnoticed, but in the case of a poor diet, disturbed sleep, or frequent consumption of alcohol and/or cigarettes, you should expect the risk of a more severe course of the disease.

What are the properties of honey?

Honey is one of the most popular and readily available remedies for cold symptoms. Traditional medicine claims that honey is effective in relieving coughs and sore throats, and this seems to be confirmed by modern scientific observations. Adding honey to your cold remedy arsenal can reduce the frequency and intensity of coughing fits.

This effect may be particularly noticeable in children, but it should be remembered that honey is not recommended for children under 1 year of age. Honey has antiviral and antibacterial properties, which makes it not only an effective remedy for colds, but sometimes also a safe alternative to antibiotics. Some studies have also found anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity in the biologically active compounds in honey.

How does honey help with colds?

In addition to inhibiting pathogenic microorganisms associated with upper respiratory tract infections, honey can also be helpful in other ways. Adding it to water can help provide the energy necessary for the body to function properly during a cold. For the same reason, it can be added to enrich the flavour of food or other beverages.

This is especially important when your appetite decreases and your energy needs are not being met. Water with honey can also help regulate the body's hydration, which in turn can be useful in subfebrile conditions.