There's an herbal remedy that's been circulating in my herbal learning groups. It's using cinnamon and honey to help with sore throats, colds and flu's.
After hearing about it, I of course had to try it out and take a deeper dive into the background of this very simple home remedy.
So the questions I have are:
- Is cinnamon and honey a good remedy for colds, flu's and sore throats?
- How do you make it?
- How much should you take?
- What's the best way to take it?
Is Cinnamon and Honey Good for Colds?
This is a tricky question. One research review has shown that true cinnamon (Ceylon cinnamon) can have anti-microbial properties. Showing that it may help kill bacteria.
There is also studies that show that extracted parts of cinnamon could be an anti-viral. Meaning that it could help stop viruses in their tracks.
This means that cinnamon could in fact help colds, flu's and sore throats!
One big thing I found when reading through the research was an article about the risks of taking too much cinnamon. Which leads to me to the next part:
Not all Cinnamon is Created Equal
Knowing the difference between the two types of cinnamon plays a factor into whether or not you should try the honey and cinnamon remedy.
The two main types of cinnamon are:
Cassia: Known as "regular" cinnamon. The cheaper kind of cinnamon you find in the grocery store.
Ceylon: Known as "true" cinnamon. Usually more expensive, but better tasting.
Ceylon cinnamon is a better quality cinnamon and according to healthline doesn't pose the same toxicity risks as cassia cinnamon.
If you can get your hands on organic Ceylon cinnamon, I recommend doing so. This is the exact one we use.
Next, let's take a look at what's in it and how to make it.
Ingredients
Just as the title implies, this remedy is made up of two ingredients.
Honey & Cinnamon.
Honey
When choosing what kind of honey to use, remember what you are using it for. If it's just for taste, any honey will do.
However, to get the most health benefits from your honey try to find a organic, local, raw honey.
If you can't find local honey, you can try this brand online. It's one of my personal favorites. It's sweet but has a much milder taste. (It tastes less "honeyish" if that makes sense.)
Cinnamon
As far as the cinnamon goes, like I mentioned above, try avoiding the "regular" cinnamon (cassia cinnamon) when using it for a home remedy like this.
Since you'll be eating more of the cinnamon, stick with the Ceylon cinnamon, as cassia cinnamon has shown to be toxic when regularly consumed.
Instructions
To make the honey and cinnamon remedy, simply combine the two ingredients together.
There isn't an exact science as far as measurements go. But a 4 parts to 1 part ratio seems to be the sweet spot for most people.
When making a batch for my kids last cold season, I honestly didn't measure. I simply put a good amount of honey in my jar. Then I added what seemed like 1/4 the amount of cinnamon to it.
Mix well until your honey and cinnamon mixture is well combined and serve up to family members at the first signs of a cold.
Can't really get any easier!
Doesn't the honey mixed with cinnamon just look so magical! A pretty, shimmery jar of sweet goodness. You kids will love it! (And you probably will too!)
Cinnamon and Honey for Colds
This cinnamon and honey mixture is considered a great herbal remedy during cold and flu season! Whip up a batch and keep it on hand to use at the first signs of cold.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Honey
- 1/8 cup Ceylon Cinnamon
Instructions
- Place your honey in a jar or storage container with a lid.
- Add in your cinnamon and stir well.
- Serve 1 spoonful of mixture at the first signs of sneezes, coughs or sore throat, 3 times a day for 3-4 days.
Notes
This mixture will quite literally last forever if stored in a cool dark area. We keep ours in the fridge, but you don't have to.
It's also great combined into a cup of tea or on buttered toast.
How to Use the Mixture
The general recommendations is to give a spoonful of the mixture to someone at the first signs of a cold. Then give them a spoon full 3 times a day for 3-4 days.
My kids loved the taste of the honey with cinnamon mixed in.
However, if you or your kids aren't too keen on the taste, you could always mix it into a bit of tea or spread it onto a buttered piece of toast.
I personally plan on using this in a homemade cinnamon roll as filling.
If you do put it in tea, let the tea cool down to a warm temperature and not "hot." Too much heat will destroy all the good properties in the raw honey.
You could also add a squirt of lemon, which is a personal favorite of mine to soothe a sore throat.
Does Cinnamon and Honey Really Get Rid of Colds??
Honestly, I don't know. There is so little research done on herbs and remedies that there really is just no telling.
But, I assure you, I will whipping up a batch of this tasty remedy every cold season to sit right next to my elderberry syrup and cod liver oil. I love having a fridge stocked with healthy herbal aids, just in case.
