Honey, Warm Drinks and Throat Comfort: What Works

Honey and lemon in hot water is probably the world's most popular cough remedy. It turns out the tradition has some decent evidence behind it.

Honey and coughs

Reviews of the research have found honey can modestly ease cough frequency and severity from colds, performing about as well as some common over-the-counter cough medicines in several studies. It coats and soothes the throat, which may calm the urge to cough.

Why warm drinks help

Warm fluids soothe an irritated throat, contribute to hydration (which keeps mucus thinner), and the steam rising from the cup adds a little moisture to the airways. They also slow you down, which is no bad thing when you're under the weather.

Simple drinks worth trying

• Honey and lemon in warm (not boiling) water.
• Fresh ginger tea — sliced ginger simmered for ten minutes, with honey to taste.
• Clear broths — warm, salty and hydrating.
• Caffeine-free herbal teas such as chamomile or peppermint.

What to limit

Alcohol dehydrates you, and lots of caffeine can too. Neither is ideal when you're trying to keep mucus thin.

Where a daily routine fits

Warm drinks are wonderful in the moment. A consistent daily habit — hydration, humidity, and a simple botanical routine like BreathiZen® — is about supporting your airways every day, not just when you feel rough.

⚠️ These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. BreathiZen® is a dietary supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Talk to your doctor before starting any supplement.