Scientists from Oxford University have verified that unrefined honey operates similarly to antibiotics but without the adverse side effects. Their research aimed to unravel the true potential of unrefined honey and explore whether it could serve as a viable alternative to conventional antibiotics, particularly in treating coughs and colds.
The study involved a comprehensive review of existing research, comparing the efficacy of honey against conventional medications such as cough suppressants, antihistamines, and painkillers. Astonishingly, the results demonstrated that honey not only had no side effects but also outperformed other medications in efficiently alleviating symptoms of the common cold.
Honey proved to be a remarkable remedy, providing a 44% reduction in cough relief. Moreover, it surpassed other medications by 36% in reducing cough frequency. The researchers, who examined 14 studies involving 1,761 participants, concluded that honey significantly shortened the recovery period of upper respiratory tract infections.
The findings, published in the British Medical Journal, emphasized that honey presented a greater reduction in combined symptom scores, cough frequency, and cough severity. The researchers highlighted the importance of considering honey as a reasonable alternative, particularly since the majority of upper respiratory tract infections are viral, rendering antibiotic prescriptions ineffective and inappropriate.
In light of the increasing concern about antibiotic overprescription, the study proposes honey as a safe and effective natural alternative for relieving coughs and colds. Notably, honey was found to reduce the duration of symptoms by up to two days. The researchers acknowledge that honey, with its diverse types, is a well-known and frequently used lay remedy that is both cost-effective and easily accessible. However, caution is advised for individuals with allergic reactions, and honey consumption is not recommended for infants under the age of 1.
