Dr. Nguyen Duc Ngoc, from the ENT Center at Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City, states that warm lemon water with honey can help alleviate coughs in specific instances, offering symptomatic relief rather than a cure.

Honey is known to soothe the throat, thin phlegm, and possess mild antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These qualities allow honey to improve symptoms of upper respiratory infections, reduce throat irritation, and decrease the frequency and severity of nighttime coughs associated with common colds.

Lemon provides vitamin C and citric acid. Vitamin C supports immune function, while citric acid helps thin secretions, easing throat discomfort. These characteristics of lemon water contribute to soothing mucous membranes and thinning phlegm.

Lemon water, rich in vitamin C, helps boost immunity. Illustration: AI

This remedy can be beneficial for mild dry coughs, sore throats, hoarseness, coughs from common colds, or throat irritation caused by extensive talking or weather changes. It serves as a supportive measure to alleviate symptoms, not a primary treatment for underlying causes. If consuming it too sour, or if the throat is inflamed, the acid content might worsen irritation. For individuals already on prescribed medication, lemon and honey can complement treatment by reducing throat discomfort and cough frequency.

To prepare, mix one to two teaspoons of honey with warm water, then add a few lemon slices or a small amount of lemon juice. Avoid using overly hot water, as high temperatures can reduce some of honey's biological activity.

Doctor Ngoc is consulting a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital

If a cough persists for more than 2-3 weeks, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, prolonged fever, or coughing up blood, seeking medical attention is crucial. This also applies to individuals with underlying conditions such as bronchial asthma, sinusitis, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. A doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for the root cause. In these serious cases, lemon and honey are not primary treatments.

Dr. Nguyen Duc Ngoc

ENT Center

Tam Anh General Hospital Ho Chi Minh City