Honey has not been convincingly shown to relieve seasonal allergies. The US National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes that only a few studies have examined this question and that the evidence is not convincing.
Why the idea is appealing
The common suggestion is that local honey exposes a person to pollen and gradually reduces sensitivity. That story should not be confused with prescribed allergen immunotherapy, which uses a defined treatment selected for an individual. A jar of honey does not provide that same controlled preparation or schedule.
Read research carefully
Small studies with different honeys and methods can produce different results. A favourable finding in one setting does not establish that any local or raw honey works for every allergy. Research on cough relief also answers a different question from treatment of seasonal allergy symptoms.
What to do with the jar
If you enjoy honey, use it as a food in an amount that suits your diet. Do not increase the amount as an allergy dose or replace prescribed treatment with it. Ask a pharmacist or clinician about persistent symptoms and appropriate options for you.
Check the ingredients of honey fusions, especially when allergies are a concern. Avoid a product that has caused an allergic reaction. Honey is not suitable for infants under 12 months.
Choose a honey by its origin, taste and clear product information. Neither local sourcing nor a raw label establishes that it prevents seasonal allergies.
