The Anti-Inflammatory Power of Manuka Honey: A Natural Approach to Asthma Relief

Coughing can be incredibly disruptive, interrupting conversations, disturbing sleep, and making eating uncomfortable. For individuals with asthma, coughing can exacerbate respiratory issues and affect overall health.

While conventional treatments are widely used, many people are turning to natural remedies for additional support. Manuka honey, known for its numerous health benefits, is one such remedy that has gained popularity for its potential to soothe asthma symptoms.

Understanding Asthma

Asthma is a chronic lung disease that leads to the narrowing and swelling of the airways, chest tightness, increased mucus production, and difficulty breathing. Asthma can affect people of all ages, and managing its symptoms is crucial for maintaining a good quality of life.

Manuka Honey for Asthma Relief

Manuka honey is celebrated for its antibacterial, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties, largely due to the presence of methylglyoxal (MGO). These properties make it a beneficial addition to the diet of individuals with asthma:

• Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Manuka honey can help reduce airway inflammation, providing relief from coughing and irritation.
• Antioxidant Benefits: By neutralising free radicals, manuka honey helps protect respiratory health and reduce the oxidative stress associated with asthma.
• Immune System Support: Its immune-boosting properties aid in fighting respiratory infections that can worsen asthma symptoms.
• Viscous Nature: Manuka honey's thick consistency coats the airways, offering temporary relief from asthma symptoms by soothing the throat and reducing irritation.

How to Take Manuka Honey for Asthma

Incorporating manuka honey into your daily routine can be simple and effective. Here are some ways to use manuka honey for asthma relief:

• Bedtime Remedy: Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles suggest taking 2 teaspoons of honey before bedtime to help lubricate the airways and reduce nighttime coughing.
• Honey and Warm Water: Mix a teaspoon of manuka honey into a glass of warm water and drink it 3 to 4 times a day.
• Honey and Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cinnamon powder to a teaspoon of manuka honey in lukewarm water to help remove mucus from the airways.
• Honey and Lemon Tea: Squeeze half a lemon and add a teaspoon of honey to a cup of green tea before bed. This can keep your airways clear and reduce throat irritation and coughing.

Manuka Honey and Asthma Management

While manuka honey can help soothe asthma symptoms, it is not a cure for asthma. It's important to follow the treatment plan provided by your healthcare professional. Here are some tips for managing asthma effectively:

• Medication: Always take prescribed medications, such as bronchodilators, as directed by your doctor.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Quit smoking, exercise regularly, and adopt healthy eating habits to improve overall health. 
• Avoid Allergens: Identify and avoid allergens that trigger asthma symptoms by spending time indoors during high pollen seasons.   
• Regular Checkups: Schedule monthly checkups with your asthma specialist to monitor and manage your condition effectively.

Conclusion

Manuka honey offers promising benefits for managing asthma cough. While it can enhance conventional treatments and provide additional relief, it should be used alongside prescribed medications and lifestyle modifications. Incorporating manuka honey into your daily routine, especially before bedtime, can contribute to a more peaceful, uninterrupted sleep and improved overall respiratory health.

FAQs

Q: Can an asthmatic patient have manuka honey?

A: Yes, an asthmatic patient can have manuka honey.

Q: How can a person overcome the symptoms of asthma?

A: With proper medication and lifestyle changes, one can manage asthma effectively. Adding manuka honey to the treatment plan can enhance positive outcomes.

Q: How much manuka honey can be taken by an asthmatic patient?

A: One to two teaspoons of manuka honey in a glass of lukewarm water can be taken by an asthmatic patient.

Q: What are the benefits of manuka honey for asthma?

A: Manuka honey reduces airway swelling, triggers salivary glands to increase saliva production, which helps relieve cough, and soothes throat irritation.