11 UnBEElievable Ways Manuka Honey Can Supercharge Your Health

9. May Treat Cystic Fibrosis Symptoms

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that causes progressive lung damage and can inhibit an individual's ability to breathe. Patients with this condition typically have an excessive level of very thick mucus in their lungs, and they might also experience wheezing, shortness of breath, persistent infections of the upper respiratory system, and a chronic cough. Although cystic fibrosis cannot be cured, studies suggest manuka honey may treat cystic fibrosis symptoms and help patients have a better quality of life. For example, research shows manuka honey can inhibit the growth of both Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Burkholderia spp., two types of bacteria associated with particularly serious upper respiratory infections in vulnerable patient populations, including patients with cystic fibrosis. A small study of subjects with cystic fibrosis demonstrated manuka honey worked particularly well when used as a symptom management tool in conjunction with antibiotics. Antibiotics are routinely given to patients with cystic fibrosis when a lung infection is present. Patients with this condition should always consult their healthcare team to make sure manuka honey is appropriate for their symptoms.

10. Reduces Coughing

Anecdotal evidence and scientific studies both indicate manuka honey reduces coughing. Coughing is the body's way of clearing mucus, and a cough can be dry or productive (with phlegm). A study of children with upper respiratory infections and coughing showed administering as much as two teaspoons (ten milliliters) of honey near bedtime resulted in decreased nighttime coughing and improved sleep. The study compared the effectiveness of the honey to dextromethorphan, a common over-the-counter cough suppressant, and both were found to be equally effective for cough suppression. Health organizations in the United Kingdom routinely advocate the use of honey (including manuka honey) as the first line of treatment for coughs and sore throats, and experts believe manuka honey could be a valuable tool in treating minor respiratory illnesses without the use of antibiotics. Since manuka honey contains sugar, patients with diabetes may wish to consult their doctors about how it could impact their blood sugar readings. Clinicians also recommend that honey is not given to children under one year of age due to the small risk infant botulism, a serious form of food poisoning.