In acute diarrhoea, fluid and salt losses are the main concern. Honey is a sugary food, not a substitute for an appropriate rehydration solution or investigation of a serious cause. Antibacterial effects in a laboratory do not establish reliable home treatment with honey water.
Fluids and electrolytes first
Oral rehydration solutions from a pharmacy can help when dehydration risk is increased. Prepare the powder exactly as directed on the package with the specified amount of water. Do not add honey or replace the mixture with honey water: the balanced ratio of sugar and salts is essential.
Frequent small sips may be easier if you feel sick. Continue breastfeeding or the usual infant formula; do not dilute formula on your own initiative. Discuss suitable care with a paediatrician early for young children.
Why “more sugar” is not the answer
Very sugary drinks can worsen diarrhoea. This does not mean every small amount of honey causes symptoms in adults. However, there is no reason to recommend honey as a necessary diarrhoea treatment. Food and drink should reflect tolerability, age and the course of the illness.
No honey for infants
Children under twelve months should not have honey because of the risk of infant botulism. Honey therefore should not be added to bottles, water or purées as a supposed home remedy either.
When medical help is needed
Blood in the stool, high fever, marked weakness, much less urine or inability to keep fluids down require medical assessment. Drowsiness or severe deterioration calls for immediate help. Seek medical advice early for infants and particularly vulnerable people.
Frequently asked questions
Can honey replace an electrolyte solution?
No. Honey water does not contain a defined ratio of the electrolytes needed.
Is a particular honey variety guaranteed to help?
The properties of a variety do not establish reliable treatment for the different causes of diarrhoea.
