When it comes to natural remedies for soothing a persistent cough, one option stands out for its unique properties: Manuka honey. This prized honey, native to New Zealand, has gained widespread attention for its healing benefits, particularly in easing coughs and soothing sore throats. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the various ways you can take Manuka honey to treat a cough, why it works, and how to maximize its benefits.
What Makes Manuka Honey Special?
Before exploring how to take Manuka honey for cough relief, it’s important to understand what sets it apart from regular honey. Manuka honey is produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush, which is native to New Zealand. What makes this honey unique is its concentration of a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), known for its antibacterial properties. This makes Manuka honey more potent than regular honey, with the ability to combat bacteria and promote healing.
Not only does Manuka honey help soothe a cough, but it also has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant properties, making it a powerful natural remedy for a range of respiratory ailments.
How Does Manuka Honey Help with Cough?
Manuka honey is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a natural medicine cabinet in a jar. Here’s how it can help with cough:
- Antibacterial Action: Manuka honey helps fight bacteria that may be causing or exacerbating a cough, particularly if it’s related to respiratory infections.
- Soothing Irritated Throats: The thick, sticky consistency of Manuka honey coats the throat, creating a soothing barrier that reduces irritation and calms coughing.
- Promoting Healing: Manuka honey’s natural healing properties can accelerate recovery from sore throats and inflammation, speeding up the healing process.
- Natural Moisturizer: Its hydrating properties help moisturize dry, irritated throat tissues, which are often the culprit behind persistent coughing.
- Cough Suppressant: By coating the throat, Manuka honey can suppress the urge to cough, providing relief from nighttime coughs that disrupt sleep.
How to Choose the Right Manuka Honey
When selecting Manuka honey for medicinal purposes, the most important thing to look for is its Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating or MGO rating. The UMF rating reflects the concentration of MGO, and the higher the rating, the more potent the honey.
- UMF 10+ or MGO 250+: Suitable for general cough relief and overall health benefits.
- UMF 15+ or MGO 400+: Stronger honey with enhanced antibacterial properties. Ideal for persistent coughs and more severe throat irritation.
- UMF 20+ or MGO 550+: High-grade Manuka honey, used for serious infections and more intense cough relief.
Now that you know why and how Manuka honey works, let’s explore the different ways to incorporate it into your cough-relief routine.
1. Take It Straight from the Spoon
One of the simplest and most effective ways to take Manuka honey for a cough is to eat it straight off the spoon.
Directions:
- Take a teaspoon of Manuka honey directly by mouth.
- Let it coat your throat before swallowing to create a protective layer.
- For best results, take one teaspoon 2–3 times per day, especially before bed to prevent nighttime coughing.
This method works well because it allows the honey to remain in contact with your throat for as long as possible, soothing the irritation and helping to reduce your cough.
2. Mix Manuka Honey with Warm Water or Tea
Drinking a warm liquid with Manuka honey can help soothe your throat while providing hydration, which is key to recovering from a cough.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of warm water or herbal tea (such as chamomile or ginger tea)
- 1 tablespoon of Manuka honey
- Optional: Add a slice of lemon and a piece of fresh ginger for extra soothing properties.
Directions:
- Stir the Manuka honey into the warm (not boiling) water or tea. Boiling water can destroy some of the honey’s beneficial enzymes.
- Sip slowly, allowing the honey to coat your throat.
- Drink this mixture 2–3 times daily for optimal results.
This method is particularly beneficial when dealing with dry coughs or throat irritation. The warm liquid helps to relax the throat muscles, while the honey and herbs provide added relief.
3. Add Manuka Honey to a Steam Inhalation
Inhaling steam with Manuka honey can help open up the airways, relieve congestion, and calm a cough.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of Manuka honey
- A bowl of hot (but not boiling) water
- A towel
Directions:
- Add the Manuka honey to the bowl of hot water and stir to dissolve.
- Lean over the bowl, cover your head with a towel to trap the steam, and breathe deeply for 10–15 minutes.
- Repeat this process twice a day if you have a persistent cough.
The steam helps loosen mucus in the throat and lungs, making it easier to breathe and reducing cough reflexes. The honey’s antibacterial properties can also be inhaled to provide further relief.
4. Combine Manuka Honey with Lemon and Ginger
A classic remedy for coughs involves the combination of honey, lemon, and ginger, each with its own healing properties. Lemon provides vitamin C and aids in breaking down mucus, while ginger helps to reduce inflammation and fight infection.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of Manuka honey
- 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
Directions:
- Mix the ingredients together in a small bowl.
- Take this mixture 2–3 times per day.
- You can also add this to warm water for a soothing drink.
This combination works well to calm coughs and boost your immune system at the same time. The sharpness of lemon and ginger contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the honey, making it a pleasant and effective remedy.
5. Use Manuka Honey as a Cough Syrup Alternative
Instead of relying on over-the-counter cough syrups that may contain artificial ingredients, Manuka honey can serve as a natural alternative. It has been shown in studies to be as effective—if not more—than some traditional cough medications.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of Manuka honey
- 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon (optional for added flavor and benefits)
Directions:
- Mix the ingredients together in a small container.
- Take one teaspoon of the mixture every 3–4 hours to keep your throat soothed and your cough at bay.
This syrup-like blend provides immediate relief and can be taken throughout the day as needed, without any harsh chemicals or additives.
6. Manuka Honey Lozenges
If you prefer a portable option, you can also find Manuka honey lozenges available at health stores or online. These lozenges are infused with Manuka honey and provide the same soothing, antibacterial benefits in a convenient form.
Directions:
- Pop a lozenge in your mouth whenever you feel a cough coming on.
- Allow it to dissolve slowly for prolonged relief.
This is a great option for keeping in your bag or at your bedside for quick, on-the-go cough relief.
Final Thoughts: Consistency is Key
While Manuka honey is a powerful natural remedy, it’s important to use it consistently to see the best results. Whether you’re taking it directly from the spoon or adding it to your tea, the key is to use it regularly and in combination with other healthy practices, such as staying hydrated and resting.
Additionally, always check the label for the UMF or MGO rating to ensure you’re getting authentic, high-quality Manuka honey. If your cough persists for more than a week or is accompanied by other severe symptoms, consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.
By incorporating Manuka honey into your daily routine, you can enjoy its soothing, healing properties and finally get the cough relief you need.
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