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Honey for cough for colds — the evidence
For children over one year with a cough, a Cochrane review found honey probably reduces cough frequency and severity more than no treatment, and about as well as over-the-counter cough syrup. For adults the evidence is thinner but points the same way.
What the evidence says
Verdict: Some evidence. For children over one year with a cough, a Cochrane review found honey probably reduces cough frequency and severity more than no treatment, and about as well as over-the-counter cough syrup. For adults the evidence is thinner but points the same way.
What to actually do
A spoonful at bedtime for a child over one, or stirred into warm water for an adult. Never for a baby under one year — honey can carry botulism spores. And honey is still sugar: it is a treatment dose, not a drink.
Source: Cochrane — honey for acute cough in children (CD007094) · checked 2026-09-07
Self-care reference, not medical advice. Children, older adults, pregnancy and anyone with a long-term condition should have a lower bar for calling a clinician. Severe or worsening symptoms, trouble breathing or confusion: get medical help.