Got a sore, scratchy throat? According to a study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, researchers concluded that buckwheat honey can be very helpful for soothing throat issues. Specifically, they found that during the night kids had fewer (and less severe) coughing episodes when they took it before bed. (1)
In the study, both the kids AND THEIR PARENTS got more sleep with this simple home remedy than any other way – who doesn’t need THAT?
So what’s so special about buckwheat honey? Made by bees who gather primarily from white buckwheat blossoms, this unique, molasses colored honey is incredibly rich in antioxidants and other compounds that support healing. (2)
However, other types may be beneficial as well – in folk medicine all varieties are considered to be helpful. It’s also possible to increase the antioxidant content of lighter-colored honey by infusing it with herbs like echinacea, elderberry or acerola cherry – this pre-made organic honey cough syrup from Genexa includes all three. It’s available in many grocery stores, health food stores, and pharmacies, so if you’re reading this list and you need it right away, you can check availability here. (I’m a partner with them, just FYI.)
You’ll find my easy “go to” recipe below – it blends honey with soothing extra-virgin olive oil and astringent lemon juice/apple cider vinegar, and it’s super easy to make.
Soothing Homemade Cough Syrup
Ingredients
- ¾ cup organic buckwheat honey Organic raw honey and local honey will also work
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2-4 tbsp organic lemon juice Or raw apple cider vinegar
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper Optional – Cayenne contains capsaicin, which helps reduce discomfort by influencing Substance P – a chemical pain transmitter
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a clean jar.
- To use, simply give it a good stir and serve either room temperature or gently warmed.
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- Paul, Ian M. et. al. (2007) Effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents
- Science Daily (1998) Dark Honey Has More Illness-Fighting Agents Than Light Honey
This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Sheila Kilbane, MD, a board-certified pediatrician, trained in integrative medicine. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.
