Overview
- The guidance highlights a hot drink made with lemon and honey as a way to ease sore throats and calm coughs, noting it does not cure the virus.
- Suggested recipe: squeeze half a lemon into a mug of boiled water, add one to two teaspoons of honey, then drink warm.
- Using supermarket prices reported by outlets, a serving costs about 50–52p, based on Aldi lemons and honey.
- Studies cited in coverage report honey can suppress coughs as effectively as some over‑the‑counter medicines, and warm liquids help hydration and congestion; optional ginger may add anti‑inflammatory benefits.
- Key cautions include no honey for children under one due to infant botulism risk, rinsing with water after drinking to protect tooth enamel, and avoiding alcohol due to dehydration, immune effects, and interactions with cold and flu medications.