Honey cough drops are among the most popular alternative remedies for daytime coughing, or to ease the frequency of coughing before retiring for the evening. There are a number of reasons why cough drops made with honey are effective, including the presence of a substantial dose of antioxidants, the vitamins found in the honey, and the antimicrobial properties of the substance. This nutritional content not only helps to ease the coughing, but also contributes to the general welfare of the body in several important ways.
The use of honey cough drops not only helps to ease the irritation in the throat that leads to coughing but also provides another source of nutrition. There are several vitamins that are found in honey that are also present in the cough drops. Varying amounts of niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamin B6, and pantothenic acid are a few examples. In addition, the drops contain several minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and iron. For people who are struggling with the common cold, all these nutrients provide nourishment for the immune system. Several of these nutrients also help to promote an even mood and restful sleep, which both help the body to overcome the underlying cause for the cough.
Along with vitamins and minerals, honey cough drops provide a significant dose of antioxidants as well as having antimicrobial properties. This means that the body is able to make use of the nutrients with greater efficiency, which in turn expedites the healing process. As a result, the frequency and the pain associated with the coughing begins to ease soon after using the honey cough drops.
While not a miracle product, honey cough drops provide a natural alternative to using over the counter cherry or menthol cough drops that also contain what may or may not be effective medications. As with any type of healthcare product, there are some restrictions on the use of these natural drops. Many physicians recommend that honey cough drops not be given to a child under the age of one year, owing to the possibility of what is known as infant botulism. This is a type of food poisoning that is somewhat rare but may occur if the child is exposed to certain foods before the body is strong enough to use the content of those foods efficiently.
Care must be taken when buying honey cough drops, as there are some brands that include honey as one ingredient but also include dextromethorphan in the formula. In addition, there is some difference of opinion as to what type of honey makes for the most effective cough suppressant. If the goal is to find an all-natural cough drop, focus on products that are made with pure honey, possibly a little lemon, and some type of binders.
