WHY DOES HONEY MAKE ME FEEL BETTER WHEN I’M UNDER THE WEATHER?

The first thing to say is using honey when you’re under the weather is supported by the evidence and certainly won’t do any harm. A review in the British Medical Journal in 2020 looked at 14 studies of almost 1,800 people with upper respiratory infections being treated with either honey or conventional methods (such as antihistamines, expectorants, cough suppressants and painkillers). Honey did appear to improve symptoms (especially the frequency and severity of cough) and in some cases was found to shorten the duration of symptoms by a day or two. The findings were only observational and honey isn’t a cure, but it is safe for anyone over the age of one and is often kept as a staple in kitchen cupboards.

Why honey works is unclear, but it has long been thought to have antibacterial properties. In order to survive, bacteria need water and honey draws it away, which, in turn, damages the internal structures of the bacteria cells. That being said, a lot of cough and cold symptoms are caused by viruses rather than bacteria, so this wouldn’t be a complete explanation for its beneficial effect. Honey also has anti-inflammatory properties and it has been suggested that, due to its viscous nature, it coats the throat causing a soothing effect.

The bottom line is that even though the evidence base isn’t strong and we don’t know exactly how it works, honey is cheap, readily available and has virtually no side effects. Also, given the concern about antibacterial resistance from overuse of antibiotics, it’s certainly worth a try for some at-home self-care if you’re feeling under the weather.