Evidence supporting the use of: Honey
For the health condition: Colds (prevention)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Honey for Colds (Prevention): Evidence Overview

Honey has a longstanding tradition in many cultures as a remedy for coughs and colds, and recent scientific research has provided some support for its use—primarily in the management of symptoms rather than prevention. Several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, including those cited by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Cochrane reviews, have found that honey may be effective in soothing cough and improving sleep in children with upper respiratory tract infections. Its demulcent properties can coat the throat, which may help reduce irritation and coughing.

The antimicrobial properties of honey, attributed to its high sugar content, hydrogen peroxide, and other bioactive compounds, have been studied primarily in vitro. While these features may theoretically reduce bacterial or viral load, there is limited high-quality evidence that honey can prevent the onset of colds. Most clinical studies focus on symptomatic relief rather than prevention.

Major health organizations, including the CDC and NHS, recognize honey as a safe and potentially effective symptomatic treatment for cough in children over one year old, but they do not recommend it as a preventive measure for colds. In summary, while honey has demonstrated efficacy in relieving cold symptoms, its role in prevention is not well-established, and evidence for this purpose rates as moderate (3/5).

More about Honey
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basil
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black cumin
black currant
black pepper
black tea
blackberry
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capsaicinoids
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chlorella
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citrus sinensis (proprietary)
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grape
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green tea
greens blend (proprietary)
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honeysuckle
lactobacillus brevis
lemon
licorice root
lovage
marshmallow
moringa
mustard seed
nettle
spruce
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oregano
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pear
phenolic acids
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plantain
pollen
pomegranate
pumpkin
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algae
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acacia
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Abrus
Amomum
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Ajuga
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Bidens pilosa
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black salt
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Black Nightshade
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Products containing Honey

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.