$Unique_ID{BRK02422}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Why Does Honey and Lemon Relieve Cold Symptoms?}
$Subject{cold honey lemon juice old home remedy sore throats hot beverages
vitamin c folk medicine medicines medication medications treatment treatments
lemons juices remedies nose throat beverage colds}
$Volume{R-6}
$Log{
Symptoms of the Common Cold*0008502.scf}

Copyright (c) 1992,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Why Does Honey and Lemon Relieve Cold Symptoms?


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QUESTION:  Whenever a cold broke out in our family, my Mother would trot out
her favorite concoction of honey and lemon juice in hot water.  I still use it
for my children, although I must admit, I feel a bit silly.  It seems to work,
but I don't know why.  Do you?

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ANSWER:  No I don't, and as far as I have been able to determine, neither does
anyone else.  But don't let that stop you from giving this respected old home
remedy to your children.  The fact is that there is some evidence that honey
mixtures, such as yours, may help relieve symptoms of both sore throats and
colds.  The problem is that an explanation of just how it works is still
lacking.  And we also know that hot beverages are of help during a bout of the
flu or bad cold, as well.  I can't find any references to the value of lemon
juice, which may add a bit of vitamin C and some taste to the mixture.  I am
sure there are many such mixtures still used as a first line defense against
the symptoms of colds.  Since they are helpful, and offer no dangers, I see no
reason for you to feel silly about using them.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.