The Science
Honey has 3 mechanisms: (1) Physical coating — thick viscosity coats and soothes irritated throat mucosa. (2) Osmotic effect — high sugar concentration draws water out of bacteria, inhibiting growth. (3) Hydrogen peroxide (in raw honey) — mild antimicrobial. A 2018 Cochrane review found honey was MORE effective than some OTC cough medicines for children's nighttime cough. Manuka honey (UMF 10+) has additional methylglyoxal antimicrobial activity. Dose: 1-2 teaspoons straight or in warm (not boiling) water + lemon.
⚠️ Important Caveats
Never give honey to infants under 12 months (botulism risk). Not a replacement for antibiotics if bacterial infection (strep throat). Warm, not boiling water (heat destroys enzymes).