How does honey relieve a sore throat/cough?

Question

It’s interesting how despite all differences, a great variety of cultures all share the same remedy for cough and/or sore throat: honey.
Whether they make you drink it in tea, or give it to you straight with a spoon.
The best thing: it works. But how does it work? And how did so many different peoples come to the same conclusion?

In: 2990

Answer 1

Honey is a protease, which means it breaks down proteins. It’s commonly used in marinades for tougher meats as well. Since it breaks down proteins so well.

Mucus is effectively a protein. So when you swallow or cost your throat with honey, the honey begins to break down your mucus allowing it to either be swallowed or spat up easier. Honey also coats the throat, potentially protecting the throat from further irritation. I don’t know how multiple cultures figured it out though.

Pineapple juice and pineapple slices serve a similar use, pineapple will also break down proteins in a similar manner.