Honey for Health: How to Boost Your Immune System Naturally

Still No Cure . . .
In case your friends and colleagues aren’t already coughing, sneezing, and requesting much-needed time off from work, it’s time you know—cold and flu season is upon us. But before you speed off to the pharmacy to restock your medicine cabinet arsenal, remember that there is still no cure for the common cold.

In fact, antibiotics don’t help either because colds are brought on by viral infections, not bacterial. So, what can you do? Let’s look at another way to boost your immune health naturally and keep you healthy all season long.

A Little Honey, A Little Health
Honey has been used medicinally for hundreds of years. Perhaps mixing a spoonful of honey into tea during chilly months is even part of your own family tradition. However, the use of honey to boost immune health isn’t just anecdotal.

Scientific research has actually shown that honey “has potent inhibitory activity against the influenza virus,” as well as antibacterial properties. This may be due to its low pH and hydrogen peroxide production or even high sugar concentration. The effectiveness of natural remedies can vary greatly, but so far the data is in favor of honey.

Sweet and Soothing
Aside from honey’s natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, what is it that makes honey so soothing when your throat starts aching during flu season? It’s actually quite simple. According to scientists, “the sweet or bitter taste of the medicine triggers reflex salivation and the secretion of mucus in the airways.” In other words, the sweet taste of honey alone can be soothing. No wonder honey and other sweeteners are found in nearly every cough medicine on the shelves.

That doesn’t mean you should reach for candies and cookies to soothe your cough, though! Honey contains antioxidants and immune boosters, whereas refined sugars will weaken your immune system. This cold and flu season, turn to honey for that pesky cough. There’s never been a sweeter solution.