Honey for Sore Throat

Honey is often used as a key ingredient in home remedies for a sore throat. This is because honey contains several constituents that have antimicrobial properties. In a recent study, it was proved that honey was as effective as most cough medicines for children and in some areas it was actually superior to its allopathic counterpart. Honey for sore throat and respiratory infections is often recommended for children and adults; however, it is not recommended for infants. Honey can cause a rare medical ailment in infants and so it is not recommended for children below the age of 2. Honey for a sore throat is often used along with other foods and herbs to increase its therapeutic effects.  

One of the most common sore throat home remedies is a ginger and honey tonic. To make this tonic, a small piece of fresh ginger should be cleaned thoroughly and scraped to remove the outermost skin. It should then be grated and mixed with a few spoons of honey and kept aside for 30 minutes or so. Honey has the ability to draw out moisture from vegetables and fruits and so you will find that a considerable amount of liquid has collected within this period. This tonic can then be consumed twice or thrice a day in order to soothe a sore throat as well as fight off any pathogens. This ginger honey tonic is especially recommended for children as children tend to make a fuss when having bitter medicines. If the ginger honey tonic is meant for an adult, the ginger can be blended along with honey to make a thicker tonic. This tonic will cause a slight burning sensation in the throat but this is only temporary. Ginger contains gingerol which is its active compound that makes it so effective in treating a sore throat. A mixture of ginger and honey for sore throat and related respiratory problems will provide quick and lasting relief.     

Garlic is also renowned for its therapeutic uses which include its effectiveness in treating a sore throat. Garlic has natural antimicrobial constituents and it also helps to boost the immune system. Garlic has a very strong pungent taste and aroma and so many people prefer to have a mixture of garlic and honey for sore throat and congestion. This mixture may taste a little strange but its therapeutic effects more than make up for it. A similar tonic can also be made using chopped raw onions and honey.