It doesn’t hurt to use moderate amounts of cinnamon and honey if you find it helps.
A popular method is adding a tablespoon of honey and half a teaspoon of cinnamon to hot water.
Does It Work?
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There is no evidence that honey orcinnamon, taken together or separately, can cure a cold.
That said, there is some evidence that cinnamon and honey could ease certain cold symptoms.
The common cold is a respiratory infection resulting from hundreds of different viruses.
It involves mixing one part cinnamon into four parts honey.
Take one teaspoon of this mixture three times a day for three to four days.
For example, a family of four would use 1 cup of honey and 4 tablespoons of cinnamon.
Store the mixture in a closed jar at room temperature.
If you prefer, this recipe works well as a tea.
The hot water can also help thin mucus and soothe an irritated throat.
Thus, drinking cinnamon and honey after dinner or before bed may be particularly helpful for some people.
Who Shouldn’t Use It?
Cinnamon is safe in small, food-level amounts but may cause allergic reactions.
Honey is generally considered safe.
Summary
A mixture of honey and cinnamon is a much-touted cure for the common cold.
Despite centuries of anecdotal evidence suggesting it works, no scientific evidence supports these claims.
Individually, these kitchen staples show promise for easing cold symptoms.
Research shows honey can help to relieve sore throats and coughs.
Cinnamon may help open airways and thin mucus, at least theoretically.
These purported benefits are based on laboratory research.
Clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects.
Honey and cinnamon are generally considered safe.
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