Is Honey and Banana Good for a Cough? A Natural Remedy

Honey is more effective than standard care for upper respiratory tract infection symptoms, according to research published in the BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine journal. This popular ingredient is often combined with bananas for a soothing home remedy. The question remains: is honey and banana good for a cough?

Quick Summary

Honey and banana are popular home remedies for coughs. Honey coats the throat and provides antimicrobial benefits, while bananas offer soothing nutrients. This combination may provide effective relief, although individual reactions to bananas can vary.

Key Points

• Honey's Effectiveness: Multiple studies show honey can reduce cough frequency and severity.

• Soothing Demulcent: Honey coats the throat, soothing irritation and reducing the urge to cough.

• Banana's Benefits: Ripe bananas are soft, easy to swallow, and provide immune-boosting nutrients.

• Safety Precautions: Never give honey to infants under 12 months due to the risk of botulism.

• Individual Reactions: Some people with allergies or asthma may find bananas increase mucus production; monitor your symptoms.

• Natural Option: This remedy offers a readily available and inexpensive alternative to antibiotics for viral URTIs.

Coughs are common with upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and can cause considerable discomfort for both children and adults. Many people turn to natural remedies due to limited effectiveness and potential side effects from over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

The combination of honey and banana is a classic example. This guide examines the properties of both ingredients, supported by scientific research, to determine if this remedy works.

The Benefits of Honey for Coughs

Honey has been a traditional medicine for centuries and is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a possible demulcent for coughs. A demulcent coats the throat, relieving irritation and reducing the urge to cough.

Studies support the use of honey:

• Antimicrobial Properties: Honey contains compounds with antioxidant and broad-spectrum antimicrobial actions against bacteria in the upper respiratory tract.
• Anti-inflammatory Effects: Honey can reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat.
• Cough Suppression: Research indicates honey can reduce cough frequency and severity. It may be more effective than some common cough suppressants like dextromethorphan.

Important Safety Note: Honey should never be given to children under 1 year of age due to the risk of infant botulism, a rare form of food poisoning.

The Role of Bananas in Cough Relief

Bananas are a nutritional source, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A medium banana contains potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and magnesium.

Bananas can be beneficial for coughs:

• Soothing and Easy to Swallow: The soft texture of a ripe banana makes it easy to eat when a sore throat makes swallowing difficult.
• Nutrient Support: Vitamins and antioxidants in bananas help strengthen the immune system.
• Acid Reflux Relief: Bananas are an alkaline fruit that can help neutralize stomach acid. They can provide relief for coughs caused or worsened by acid reflux.

However, some people with conditions like asthma or specific allergies (e.g., latex-fruit syndrome) can experience increased mucus production or coughing from bananas.

Comparison: Honey and Banana vs. OTC Cough Medicine

It is helpful to compare the home remedy to conventional medicine.

Feature	Honey and Banana Remedy	Over-the-Counter (OTC) Cough Syrup
Efficacy	Effective for mild to moderate URTIs symptoms, cough frequency, and severity.	Often no more effective than a placebo for children; evidence for adults is mixed.
Safety	Excellent safety profile for those over 1 year old; potential for banana allergy issues.	Potential side effects (drowsiness, hyperactivity, etc.) and not recommended for children under 6 years.
Cost	Very inexpensive, using common kitchen staples.	Can be expensive, contributing to significant healthcare costs.
Properties	Natural antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and demulcent properties.	May combine various synthetic drugs (antihistamines, suppressants, etc.).

For mild cases, the natural and inexpensive is honey and banana good for a cough remedy is a superior choice.

Making a Honey & Banana Cough Remedy

A simple recipe mixes mashed banana with warm water and honey.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 2 tablespoons of raw honey
• 400 ml (about 1 2/3 cups) of warm water

Instructions:

1. Mash ripe bananas in a bowl or blend into a smooth puree. A wooden spoon can avoid the mixture darkening.
2. Heat the water until warm, but not boiling. Boiling water can destroy the enzymes in honey.
3. Pour the warm water over the mashed bananas and stir.
4. Let the mixture cool slightly before adding honey and stirring until dissolved.
5. Consume approximately 3-4 tablespoons of this mixture throughout the day for relief.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to two days and reheat slightly before serving.

Conclusion

The answer to "is honey and banana good for a cough?" is generally yes, especially for those with a mild to moderate cough. Honey's demulcent, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties target cough symptoms, while bananas provide a soothing texture and nutrients. This natural combination offers a safe, cost-effective alternative to many OTC medications, especially for children over one year old. However, it should not replace medical advice for persistent or severe symptoms.

For more information, visit the Mayo Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is honey and banana safe for a child's cough?

Yes, it is generally safe for children over 1 year of age. Studies show honey can be more effective than some children's cough medicines. However, never give honey to an infant under 1 year due to the risk of botulism.

How does the banana help with a cough?

The banana helps by being soft and easy to swallow, which is gentle on a sore throat. It also provides essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin C that support immune function and recovery.

Can I use honey and banana for a wet, chesty cough?

Yes, honey's anti-inflammatory properties can help thin mucus, making it easier to expel, while the banana provides soothing relief. It is effective for both dry and wet coughs.

Can I eat bananas at night if I have a cough?

Eating bananas at night may help promote better sleep due to their magnesium and tryptophan content, which aid muscle relaxation. However, some people might find late-night consumption increases phlegm.

Can bananas make my cough worse?

For most people, no. But for individuals with a banana allergy, asthma, or allergic rhinitis, bananas can trigger histamine release and increase mucus production, potentially worsening symptoms.

How often should I consume the honey and banana mixture?

You can typically consume the mixture 3-4 times a day. A common dosage is about 1 tablespoon per serving for adults.

What kind of honey is best to use?

Raw or unpasteurized honey is often preferred for its higher enzyme and antioxidant content. However, any pasteurized honey can still provide the demulcent and antimicrobial benefits for cough relief.