Manuka Honey for Sore Throat and Cough: How to Use It and Which Grade to Choose
As soon as the weather turns cooler, the question we hear most is: does Manuka honey for a sore throat really help? The short answer: honey in general is one of the oldest ways to soothe a sore throat and cough, and Manuka honey stands out with its thick texture and its MGO. But you need to know how to use it properly, which grade to choose, and when to see a doctor. We cover all of that in this article.
Why Manuka Honey for a Sore Throat and Cough?
- It coats the throat: its thick texture covers the throat and eases itching and scratchiness.
- It contains MGO: the natural compound that gives Manuka honey its antibacterial strength. The higher the number on the jar, the stronger it is.
- A natural option: health bodies such as NICE in the UK recommend honey for mild coughs in adults and children over one year old, as a first step before cough medicines.
Just remember: Manuka honey is a nourishing food that supports your body, not a treatment or a substitute for medicine.
How to Use Manuka Honey for a Sore Throat
This is the method we recommend to our customers. We use a dessert spoon (bigger than a teaspoon, smaller than a tablespoon):
- Two dessert spoons a day: one in the morning on an empty stomach, and one in the evening.
- Adding a third spoon helps on days when you feel run down.
- Let it melt slowly in your mouth, so the honey stays on your throat for longer.
- With warm water or tea: let the drink cool a little before adding the honey, as high heat affects its quality.
Simple Throat-Soothing Recipes
- Manuka and lemon: a dessert spoon with a squeeze of lemon in a cup of warm water.
- Manuka and ginger: steep ginger slices in hot water, let it cool a little, then add the honey.
- Before bed: let a dessert spoon melt in your mouth, or stir it into a cup of warm milk.
Which Manuka Honey Grade for a Sore Throat?
| Grade | Best for | Price (250g) |
|---|---|---|
| MGO 263+ (UMF 10+) | A daily winter routine for the family | BHD 15 |
| MGO 400+ (UMF 13+) | Coughs and tired days | BHD 19 |
| MGO 573+ (UMF 16+) | For a higher grade | From BHD 23 |
Most of our customers choose Manuka Health MGO 400+ for the cooler months, as it strikes a good balance between strength and price. If the whole family is using it, the 500g jar is better value. See also guide to choosing the right grade.
Lozenges: For Your Throat on the Go
If you can't carry a jar to work or when travelling, lozenges are the easiest option:
- Manuka Health Lemon Lozenges MGO 400+: BHD 4.5
- Manuka Health Propolis Lozenges MGO 400+: BHD 4.5
- Haddrell’s UMF 16+ Lozenges: BHD 4
There are also single-serve honey sachets to keep in your bag.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Honey helps with a mild cough and a scratchy throat, but see a doctor if:
- the cough lasts more than 3 weeks.
- you have a high fever, shortness of breath or severe chest pain.
- you cough up blood.
- your throat is very swollen or it's hard to swallow.
Important Notes
- Babies under one year: must not be given any kind of honey, including Manuka.
- Diabetes: Manuka honey is a natural sugar, so ask your doctor about the right amount.
- Allergies: avoid it if you're allergic to honey or bees.
Manuka Honey for Sore Throat: FAQs
Is Manuka honey better than regular honey for a sore throat?
Both soothe the throat, but Manuka honey contains MGO in amounts you won't find in regular honey, which is why many people prefer it in winter.
When will I feel a difference?
Most people feel their throat is soothed once the spoonful melts. But if your symptoms don't ease within a few days, see a doctor.
Can I give it to my children for a cough?
Yes, if they're over one year old, in a smaller amount than adults. We cover all the details in our guide to Manuka honey for children.
Want to know more about its other benefits? Read Manuka honey benefits and types, andthe price of Manuka honey in Bahrain.
Got a question? Message us on WhatsApp and we'll help you choose the right honey for you 🍯