Honey: A Natural Remedy or Marketing Myth?

While this sounds like a promising approach, and consuming local honey is nearly harmless, there is limited research regarding the use of honey and its ability to minimize allergies. Of the current studies available, it is suggestive that there is potential, but scientists cannot confirm that it is effective. Current research is limited to small sample sizes from the population and inadequate control/experimental groups. 

There are other multiple varying factors to consider, like the type of honey used, method of application (topical, oral, inhalation, etc), if it is locally sourced, and use of traditional allergy medicine in conjunction with honey, among others to consider. Regardless of the lack of research, honey has been consumed and used topically for thousands of years for its medicinal/immune-enhancing properties. It may help suppress cough and soothe sore throat, enhance the gut lining of the GI tract, and aid in wound healing.

Limited Scientific Evidence: Understanding the Claims Related to Allergies

In a recent systematic review, a total of 9 studies (both clinical and preclinical animal models) were included to review the types of honey and its application for its effectiveness in IgE-mediated allergies. Studies included various routes of administration (topical, oral ingestion, inhalation, intranasal application), various types of honey (Manuka, Tualang, Propolis, Apiray, and Gelam honey), and various allergic conditions (dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, vernal keratoconjunctivitis, and asthma). The review concluded that of the studies included, honey has the potential to help with allergies, but there is no research indicating its effects on alleviating long-term symptoms alone. Of the studies reviewed, it was suggested that further investigation into the bioactive compounds of honey like Chrysin may be more revealing into how honey may aid in allergy relief.

The Role of Local Honey in Allergy Relief

The Concept of Local Honey: A Regional Approach

It is traditionally believed that consuming local raw honey helps with allergies because it contains small amounts of pollen from the plants in the area. The consumption of honey containing this pollen is thought to blunt the immune response in individuals with seasonal allergies to pollen.

Evaluating the Evidence: Does Local Honey Work?

Because there is limited research on ingesting local honey for allergy relief, medical providers do not support the claim that it can help despite the growing number of individuals/local beekeepers marketing local honey for allergy relief. Local honey, however, may taste different depending on the region, plants, and types of bees used. Also, using raw honey supports local farmers and promotes pollination of plants since the bee population has been dwindling. Just beware of marketing gimmicks.

Potential Benefits of Honey Beyond Allergies

Honey as a Natural Cough Suppressant

Honey has long been used as a home remedy for cough suppressants. A recent 2024 study revealed that the use of honey along with antitussive medications in COVID patients effectively reduced cough severity. A recent systematic review that pooled results from 14 studies further supported evidence that honey can reduce cough severity and cough frequency. As a child, my mother frequently gave me a “home remedy” for cough that consisted of lemon and honey- I can say that it did indeed help.

Honey's Antibacterial Properties and Wound Healing

It is thought that honey’s antibacterial properties stem from the bioactive compounds it contains: flavonoids, phenolic acids, “peroxide honey,” and methylglyoxal (MGO) or “non-peroxide honey.” Honey also has a high osmolality and low pH, creating a hostile environment where bacterial growth can occur. For thousands of years, honey has been used for wound healing; specifically, it helps reduce swelling and drainage from wounds. Scientists are looking into ways to add honey to some modern treatments for wound healing. Next time you get a scrape on your leg, try a slim smear of honey, then a band-aid- see what happens.

Cautions and Considerations

Allergies to Honey: A Rare but Possible Reaction

If you have a known sensitivity to bee pollen and, in some cases, have severe reactions to it. If you fall into this category of individuals, you should avoid eating and using honey to minimize the chance of an allergic reaction. Common symptoms of an allergic reaction to honey include asthmatic symptoms like wheezing, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, sweating, fainting, arrhythmias, and stinging after topical application.

Botulism Risk: Safety Concerns for Infants

Always avoid giving any amount of honey to babies under 1 year of age as they are at increased risk of developing “infant botulism.” This is caused by clostridium botulinum spores that can grow in honey, and when exposed to infants, immature GI tracts can grow and produce dangerous toxins that can be fatal.

To conclude, while honey might not prevent seasonal allergies, it is generally a harmless sweetener with added antibacterial properties that can be an effective cough suppressant or salve for minor cuts and scrapes. I love using honey instead of table sugar for various recipes and have even whipped up my skin salve using honey in the past. Why don’t you give it a try?

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