British researchers suggest that honey is very effective in treating colds and certain other illnesses. It would be a safer, cheaper and more accessible alternative to antibiotics. However, there is still a long way to go before this food officially takes on the role of treatment.
Reduce the consumption of antibiotics
In 2017, we mentioned a British study which revealed that out of 198 samples of honey, 75% contained traces of pesticides. And yet it may well be that honey is more effective than drugs in the treatment of certain diseases. In any case, this is the conclusion of a study conducted by researchers at the University of Oxford (United Kingdom) and published in BMJ Journals August 18, 2020.
According to the study directors, honey is an effective food for relieve cold symptoms and illnesses like the flu. It would then be an alternative to antibiotics, as much in terms of cost, accessibility and efficacy as of safety. For researchers, the goal is to encourage physicians to recommend it to their patients instead of antibiotics.
It is true that this type of medication can cause side effects. Importantly, antibiotic resistance is considered by WHO as a public health problem. Indeed, overprescribing antibiotics reduces their effects. The goal is therefore to reduce consumption and honey could help with that.
Honey can kill bacteria
Honey has long been a grandmother’s remedy to treat cough. However, this food has never really been the subject of research proving these effects. As part of their study, the British scientists analyzed existing data to find out how the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections (UTIs) react. Remember that these IRVS affect the nose, sinuses, pharynx and larynx.
Researchers believe that honey may help in efforts to improve IVRS symptoms. Many previous studies showed that the food was able to kill certain bacteria such asEscherichia coli, Helicobacter pylori or those like Salmonella. However, it all depends on the type of honey. The researchers mentioned in particular honey from Tualang (Malaysia) and Manuka (New Zealand). However, reviewing these studies will not be enough to promote this food as an alternative. According to scientists, further research should be carried out.
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