The use of honey for sore throats has ancient origins and is still an effective remedy today thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. But why is it good and how can it be used?
Honey is good for the throat. It can be used to provide relief, counteract irritation and reduce inflammation. Since ancient times it has always been considered a food with exceptional properties, and used for many ailments associated with our organism.
The properties of honey to combat sore throats
The property antibacterial of honey inhibit the proliferation of bacteria. This is due to the sugar content which creates an osmotic pressure capable of suppressing the growth of bacteria and also from the pH level present in honey which oscillates between 3.2 and 4.5 and creates an acidic environment capable of discourage bacterial proliferation.
Additionally, honey produces hydrogen peroxide, known as hydrogen peroxide, which acts as an agent disinfectant. Inside honey there are also many substances that have positive and beneficial effects on our body such as minerals, vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, organic acids, proteins and polyphenols.
Honey contains large quantities of iron, B vitamins and vitamin C.
Many of these substances can vary based on quality, seasonality and of course based on the type of honey.
The benefits of honey on the body
Honey has many effects benefits on ours body and can contribute to our well-being in many ways:
- It is good for the respiratory tract: honey has antimicrobial properties, can stimulate the immune system, has a decongestant and calming cough action and can soothe the throat when it is irritated.
- Muscle energizer: The sugar content of honey makes it an excellent source of energy and can increase physical power and endurance. A small amount of honey before exercise is a precious ally for athletes and active people.
- Liver Support: honey is detoxifying and protective for the liver. Its consumption helps eliminate toxins from the body.
- Regulates the digestive system: Honey is known for its ability to aid digestion. Its stimulating and regulating action can help maintain a healthy digestive system and protects against the most common digestive disorders.
- Diuretic action on the kidneys: Moderate consumption of honey contributes to the regulation of fluid balance in the body. This action can also be beneficial for those who want to reduce water retention.
- Blood and heart health: Honey helps clean the arteries and stimulates the immune system, promoting better blood circulation. This can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and help maintain a healthy heart.
- Bone Support: Honey is a concentrated source of calcium and magnesium, minerals essential for bone health. Integrating it into your diet can help maintain strong and resistant bones.
- Benefits for all skin: Honey protects and hydrates and is a natural remedy against dry skin. It can help prevent the signs of aging.
How to combine honey for sore throat
The easiest way to use honey for sore throat is consume it directly. Just take a teaspoon of pure honey and let it slowly melt in your mouth. Honey coats the throat and instantly relieves irritation before it even works.
The use of hot drinks with the addition of a teaspoon of honey helps to warm the throat and at the same time allows rapid relief thanks to the honey.
Also make use of honey herbal teas it is effective and immediate, particularly where, in addition to honey, beneficial herbs and sources of vitamin C are also present lemon essential oil which can provide the body with a conspicuous source of antioxidants and natural immunostimulants.
Combine the honey with the lemon juice it is, in fact, a remedy that is as ancient as it is useful for supporting the immune system. Lemon is rich in vitamin C and also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Let's not forget, then, honey and ginger. The latter also has anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used in flakes and added to hot herbal teas together with a spoonful of honey or as ginger juice. The juice is obtained by immersing the ginger root in cold water, after removing the external peel, for a few minutes. Once drained and dried, the root is pounded using a mortar and pestle until a paste is obtained or it can be blended by adding warm water.
There cinnamon is another ingredient known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Mixed with a teaspoon of honey in a cup of hot water or even tea, it is a healthy and pleasant habit and a relief for the throat.
How to effectively use honey for sore throat
Gargling with honey is also often recommended. How? By dissolving honey in a cup of warm water.
You can use this simple solution several times a day. Alternatively, you can pour warm water into a glass, add a spoonful of apple cider vinegar and one of honey, mix everything and then proceed to gargle several times a day.
To soothe a sore throat It's instinctive and enjoyable to make use of honey candies. They are particularly effective the sweets filled with a drop of honey or with the addition of beneficial substances such aseucalyptus, the propolis, ginger or lemon.
Even more effective are the cough syrups based on honey, propolis and active ingredients, real supplements capable of combating coughs and sore throats in a decisive way and when the discomfort becomes particularly annoying and harmful for the body.
