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ingestible · for acute bronchitis & cough

Honey & Lemon

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

Oduwole et al. (2012) Cochrane review of 3 RCTs; honey was consistently better than no treatment for reducing cough frequency in children with upper respiratory infections, and comparable to dextromethorphan (PMID 22419319). Lemon's vitamin C and acidity may provide additive mucosal benefit.Under $5 for a week of supplies using grocery store honey and lemons.

How to use

Mix 1-2 teaspoons of raw honey with the juice of half a lemon in 240 ml of warm (not boiling) water. Drink slowly 2-3 times per day. Alternatively, take honey alone by spoon and follow with warm water. For children over 1 year, 2.5 ml of honey before bedtime has been studied.

How it works

Honey coats irritated bronchial and pharyngeal mucosa with a viscous protective layer, physically reducing the cough reflex trigger. Its osmotic and antimicrobial properties may also reduce local viral load. Lemon provides vitamin C and citric acid, which may support mucosal integrity and have mild expectorant properties.

Where to buy

Raw honey and fresh lemons at any grocery store. Buckwheat honey has the highest antioxidant content of common honeys.

Typical cost: Under $5 for a week of supplies using grocery store honey and lemons.

Safety notes

Never give honey to children under 12 months - risk of infant botulism. Lemon juice can erode tooth enamel with very frequent use; rinse mouth with water afterwards. Not a substitute for medical evaluation if cough is accompanied by fever, blood, or breathing difficulty.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Oduwole O et al., Honey for acute cough in children, Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2012

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.