Honey

What is Honey?

Honey is a sweet fluid produced by honey bees from the nectar of different plants. Honey is about 38% fructose, 31% glucose and also contains amino acids and fatty acids . Honey is typically used as a sweetener, however it may also be used for some medicinal purposes.

Cough (antitussive)

This is a popular use of honey in children as it is thought to act as an antitussive (helps decrease coughing). It is thought that because honey has a pleasant taste, it increases the amount of saliva and airway mucus produced. This can act as a lubricant for the throat which can decrease the dry, itching sensation causing cough.

Anti-inflammatory

Some research suggests that honey can decrease the pro-inflammatory proteins within the body such as C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-ɑ).

Antimicrobial

Honey has antibacterial and antifungal activity which is believed to help with wound healing when applied to the wound. It is believe that honey can achieve these antimicrobial properties by its high osmolarity and low pH which inhibits growth and colonization.

Antioxidant

During normal activities, our bodies can produce highly reactive substances which contain oxygen. In high enough levels, these reactive substances can cause “oxidative stress” which can damage cells and lead to higher risk of disease. Our bodies have mechanisms in place to help prevent and repair damage from oxidative stress. One of these mechanisms includes antioxidants.

Honey is believed to contain antioxidants which can help the body fight oxidative stress.

Is Honey Safe?

Honey should not be used in children less than 12 months of age due to the risk of botulism.

Botulism is a rare but serious illness that is caused by a toxin that attacks the body’s nerves which can cause difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis and death.