Wellness Wednesday: Fight Illness with Honey and Lemon!
So, this week knocked us hard with the some sort of "bug" and my poor 4 yo just couldn't kick it! He ended up with an ear infection and slight sinus infection, so it was time for antibiotics.
While at the instacare, the nurse asked if he is on any meds, etc. I told them I've only been giving him Zarbee's cough syrup...but she only relayed cough syrup to the doctor, which isn't recommended for children under 6. The doctor was very sweet when she asked me not to give him more cough meds and that if I really wanted to I could give him some honey to help. When I explained that I DON'T give him regular OTC cough syrup, but Zarbee's, she seemed relieved. She went on to say that there was a study showing the effectiveness of honey vs. cough syrup (like dimetap, etc) in children under 6 and that the children given honey recovered in half the time.
Honestly, that makes so much sense to me! Ever since I was little, if I had a sore throat, my dad made me warm water with honey and lemon and it always helped. Now that I am older and have done more research, I can see why. Let's break it down.
Raw Honey (preferably from a local source) has antibacterial and antibiotic properties. Not only does it coat the throat to relieve the pain, it fights the gunk in your system! If you suffer from pollen allergies, local raw honey can sometimes help if taken consistently before "allergy season" because it is made from the local pollens, thus building an immunity in your system (kind of like Iocane powder from Princess Bride). Honey has also been used to treat indigestion, ulcers and calm the nerves. It's pretty miraculous stuff. **It should not be used for children under 1 year of age.
Lemon: We already know from discussions about lemon essential oil, that lemons have some awesome medicinal power. It is antibacterial, anti inflammatory, as well as a mucolytic, so it fights the germs and helps break down mucus! It also helps with digestion and respitory issues and lightens our moods, which when we are sick is a miracle, right?
Now that I am older, I also add a dash of Cayenne Pepper. It is antibacterial as well as a mucolytic, so it helps fight the germs and break up mucus as well.
In our home, when our throats are itchy, whether it is from sinus drainage, allergies, or the cold or flu, we make hot/warm honey lemon water and drink as needed. Now you can, too!
Ingredients
1-2 T raw honey
1-2 T lemon juice (or 1-2 drops lemon essential oil)
8 oz warm/hot water (we use our keurig)
Dash of cayenne pepper (optional)
Directions
Place honey and lemon into a cup or mug. Add water and stir until dissolved. Add a dash of cayenne (optional). Drink slowly and allow drink to coat the throat. Repeat as needed throughout the day/week.
Sip happy and be well!
~Madeline~
