Can Honey Really Soothe Sore Throats and Heal Wounds?

You Should Know: Honey has been used for centuries — the ancient Egyptians and Greeks reportedly used it to treat burns, and today it’s praised for its ability to soothe sore throats, calm coughs, and support healing of small wounds and burns (as seen on recent episode of The Pitt). But is honey actually an all-natural superfood, or simply a sweetener? 

Going Deeper: Honey contains more than 200 bioactive compounds, many of which are antibacterial or antimicrobial. To treat wounds, its acidity, thick texture, low water content, and high sugar all help stop bacteria from growing — including some antibiotic-resistant strains. For sore throats and coughs, honey can calm inflammation and provide a protective layer that reduces irritation. 

Takeaway: There’s a catch — only sterilized medical-grade honey should be used on wounds and burns — the stuff inside your kitchen jar or unfiltered raw honey won’t cut it. There’s also little evidence that consuming honey will cure seasonal allergies, either. 

Bottom Line: Honey is a tried-and-true home remedy for cold and minor throat irritation. Its antibacterial powers can aid healing, but when it comes to serious wounds, it’s best to leave it to the professionals using the right type of honey.