Manuka Honey for Flu A Natural Remedy to Beat Cold and Cough

Introduction

As winter approaches, coughs, sneezes, and colds become common. Many people turn to over-the-counter (OTC) medications to alleviate their symptoms, but these often come with side effects like lethargy. Embracing traditional remedies, such as Manuka Honey, is a better alternative. Manuka Honey has gained popularity in recent years due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Medical communities are conducting research to understand the reasons behind the effectiveness of these “superfoods.”

What is the Flu?

To understand the attributes of Manuka Honey in combating the flu, it is important to first delve into what the flu is and its symptoms.

The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It affects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Common symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.

Understanding the Effects of Manuka Honey on the Flu

Manuka honey is derived from the Manuka bush or Leptospermum Scoparium plant, native to New Zealand. This honey has been the subject of numerous scientific studies exploring its medicinal properties.

Researchers have discovered that honey acts as a demulcent, creating a protective film over the mucous membrane to soothe inflammation that triggers coughing. Manuka honey, in particular, has been found to be effective in reducing cough symptoms in both adults and children. Compared to OTC medications, Manuka honey is often more effective with fewer side effects.

A study conducted on children between the ages of one and five found that giving them two teaspoons of Manuka honey before bed resulted in reduced coughing and improved sleep quality. Some researchers even claim that Manuka honey has a similar effect to dextromethorphan, a common cough suppressant found in many non-prescription medications.

Ongoing research is focused on exploring the antibacterial properties of Manuka honey in relation to conditions like cystic fibrosis and gastrointestinal diseases.

Why is Manuka Honey the Best Choice for Fighting the Flu?

Manuka honey’s effectiveness in fighting coughs and colds during winter can be attributed to several factors:

1. High concentration of Methylglyoxal (MGO): Manuka honey contains a significant amount of MGO, which gives it powerful antibacterial properties. It targets harmful bacteria that can trigger throat irritation and coughing.

2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Manuka honey is rich in antioxidants, providing it with anti-inflammatory properties. This helps reduce swelling and maintain clear airways, providing relief from coughing.

3. Anti-fungal properties: Manuka honey’s anti-fungal properties inhibit the growth of fungi in the throat, leading to a reduction in the severity of coughing.

Research conducted on patients undergoing head and neck cancer chemotherapy showed that those who consumed Manuka honey experienced a decrease in Streptococcus Mulan’s count, the bacteria associated with sore throats.

Best Ways to Use Manuka Honey for Flu Relief

To maximize the benefits of Manuka honey’s antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties, it is important to use it correctly. Here are some recommended ways to use Manuka honey to alleviate flu symptoms:

1. Daily Dose for Immune Support

To support your immune system, take 1-3 teaspoons of Manuka honey daily. If you find the taste too bitter, you can mix it with yogurt or other foods.

2. Start Using Higher Grade Manuka Honey When Symptoms Occur

If you begin experiencing flu symptoms, increase your intake of Manuka honey to two to three teaspoons of honey with a rating of 300+ MGO. If a higher grade is available, opt for that.

3. Slowly Swallow a Teaspoon of Honey

If you have a sore throat, take a teaspoon of Manuka honey and swallow it slowly. This allows the honey to coat the throat and reduce inflammation, providing relief.

4. Take Two to Three Teaspoons for a Dry Cough

For a dry, non-productive cough, consume two to three teaspoons of Manuka honey immediately. Its demulcent properties will help soothe the throat and reduce coughing.

5. Use Manuka Honey to Irrigate Your Sinuses

If you have a blocked or runny nose, Manuka honey can help. Dilute one teaspoon of Manuka honey in distilled water and use a nasal irrigation device to rinse your sinuses.

6. Add Manuka Honey to Warm Water

Mix two to three teaspoons of Manuka honey with 200 ml of hot water. Sip this mixture slowly to alleviate cold symptoms and soothe throat irritation.

7. Make a Lemon, Ginger, and Manuka Honey Drink

Combine three tablespoons of Manuka honey with the juice of one lemon and grated ginger. Mix them in warm water and let the mixture sit for 20 minutes. This refreshing drink is beneficial for the immune system and can help fight colds and flu during winter.

8. Manuka Honey Throat Lozenge Recipe

For long-term use, you can make Manuka honey throat lozenges using the following recipe:

Ingredients:
– 100 ml water
– One bag of lemon-ginger tea
– Two tablespoons of Manuka honey with a 250+ MGO rating
– Two tablespoons of carrageenan or gelatin

Directions:
1. Make a concentrated tea in a saucepan using less water than usual. Squeeze the teabag and allow the tea to cool down.
2. Sprinkle gelatin or carrageenan evenly over the cooled tea and let it sit for 10 minutes.
3. Place the mixture over medium-low heat and stir until completely smooth.
4. Let the mixture cool at room temperature, then add the Manuka honey and stir.
5. Pour the mixture into gummy molds placed on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least one hour.
6. Store the Manuka honey throat lozenges in an airtight container for up to one week.

If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add more Manuka honey to the recipe.

Ensuring Authenticity: Beware of Counterfeit Manuka Honey

As the popularity of Manuka honey has grown, so has the prevalence of scams and counterfeit products. It is important to distinguish between genuine Manuka honey and counterfeit versions.

At https://aboutmanukahoney.com, we source our Manuka honey directly from the North Island of New Zealand. Our honey is sustainably harvested, rich in flavor, and comes with labels of authenticity.

Conclusion

Manuka honey is a natural remedy with powerful antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can effectively alleviate symptoms of the flu, including coughing and throat irritation. By following the recommended ways to use Manuka honey, you can experience relief from flu symptoms and support your immune system during the winter months. Always ensure you are purchasing authentic Manuka honey from a trusted source to reap its full benefits.