HONEY

is a mild laxative, and is thus a useful article of diet in districts in which the water is hard. It may also be used in sore throat, to relieve cough, and aid swallowing; for this purpose it is best combined with a little acetic acid and water or lemon juice. Clarified honey eight parts, acetio acid one part, water one part, sold under the name of oxymel (dose, one to two teaspoonfuls), is the best preparation if honey be used for sore throat. Honey and borax applied to the mouth and gums is a useful remedy for thrush. [s. 373]