Honey is a time-honoured remedy for cough and cold. And the same, is endorsed by the Ayurveda since thousands of years. Rich in antioxidants, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, the yellow liquid soothes the throat, alleviating irritation and helping to break up the mucus.

And now even science has backed the claims and have suggested that honey is better in treating coughs and colds than your other over-the-counter antibiotics.

Honey for sore throat

As per a recent study, honey can be better than conventional methods or treating coughs, blocked noses and sore throats. Moreover, honey is rich in nutrients and has no known side-effects.

As per the latest study carried out by the researchers at the University of Oxford, scientists found that honey is an effective alternative to antibiotics and other over-the-counter drugs for treating mild respiratory afflictions.

But this is not the first time that science has backed honey for its amazing cold relieving properties. Even in the past, scientists have praised honey for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

The study

For the latest study, the researchers of Oxford University reviewed and analysed 14 studies including the experiences of 1,761 participants before reaching to a conclusion that honey was consistently more successful and quicker in improving symptoms related to cold.

Moreover, scientists emphasised that honey has no side-effects and can be prescribed by doctors in place of antibiotics.

However, scientists also pointed out that different varieties of honey are available in the market and they can be taken in different ways. More research is needed to know which kind of honey is best to get relief from sore throat and how should it be taken.

How can you take honey

You can take honey in different ways when dealing with a sore throat and cold. The most common combinations are:

You can simply have a spoonful of honey when suffering from sore throat.

You can mix two tablespoons of honey in a glass of warm water or tea, and drink it.

You can also add a tablespoon of honey in a glass of warm and add some lemon juice to it.