According to a paper published in the latest issue of the British Medical Journal, a study by experts from the University of Oxford found that honey, which has been used to treat coughs, sore throats and common colds, is actually better than antibiotics and over-the-counter drugs. Experts suggest that doctors should advise patients with upper respiratory tract infections to take honey.
In terms of relieving cough, sore throat and congestion, honey is better than general medicine, and it does not have any harmful side effects.
Experts from the University of Oxford reviewed the results of 14 previous studies involving 1761 cases and compared the efficacy of honey, cough suppressants, antihistamines and painkillers in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. Experts found that, overall, honey is superior in terms of relieving cough, sore throat and congestion, and it does not have any harmful side effects.
In reducing the frequency of coughing, honey is 36% more effective than general medicines on average; and in reducing the degree of coughing, it is at least 44% higher. At the same time, taking honey can shorten the recovery time of upper respiratory tract infection by two days.
Experts say that honey, as the "nectar of the gods", is inexpensive and easy to obtain. The use of honey to treat upper respiratory tract infections can prevent drug resistance caused by overprescribing antibiotics.
Colds and coughs are usually caused by viruses, and antibiotics for treatment are neither effective nor necessary.
Experts believe that colds and coughs are usually caused by viruses, and prescribing antibiotics for treatment is neither effective nor necessary. Therefore, honey is recommended as a drug substitute.
However, experts also pointed out that the composition of honey is very complex, and different varieties of honey may have different effects. Experts recommend that allergy sufferers and babies under 1 year old should not take honey. It is reported that the bacteria in honey may produce the deadly toxin Clostridium in the intestines of babies.
