What the research says

Research on honey for specific conditions includes:

• Cardiovascular disease. Antioxidants in honey might be associated with reduced risk of heart disease.
• Cough. Studies suggest that eucalyptus honey, citrus honey and labiatae honey can act as a reliable cough suppressant for some people with upper respiratory infections and acute nighttime cough.
• Gastrointestinal disease. Evidence suggests honey might help relieve gastrointestinal tract conditions such as diarrhea associated with gastroenteritis. Honey might also be effective as part of oral rehydration therapy.
• Neurological disease. Studies suggest that honey might offer antidepressant, anticonvulsant and anti-anxiety benefits. In some studies, honey has been shown to help prevent memory disorders.
• Wound care. Topical use of medical-grade honey has been shown to promote wound healing, particularly in burns.

Results might vary because there are no standardized methods for producing honey or verifying its quality.