Agave syrup (Agave tequilana)

Extract from the Agave plant, a traditionally cultivated succulent, is known for its natural sweet flavor, low glycemic index, and prebiotic properties.^1-3* It also serves as an alternative to honey for children under 1 year old.⁴

Properties and mechanism of action

In cases of dry cough, the viscous nature of agave helps soothe the pharynx and the larynx, and reduces coughs associated with hoarseness, dry throat, and irritants.* In addition, its sweet taste and viscosity may trigger reflex salivation, further helping with coughs.⁵*

Scientific support

Among children with nonspecific cough, agave nectar has been studied for efficacy in reducing cough frequency. A study in children showed that agave nectar was helpful in reducing cough associated hoarseness, dry throat, and irritants.⁴*

^{*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.}

^{Ingredient details are provided as general information and are not intended to be associated with any specific Zarbee’s® products.}

^REFERENCES^:

^{1. Monterrosas-Brisson N, Ocampo ML, Jiménez-Ferrer E, et al. Anti-inflammatory activity of different agave plants and the compound cantalasaponin-1. Molecules. 2013;18(7):8136-8146. 2. Ramnani P, Costabile A, Bustillo AG, Gibson GR. A randomised, double- blind, cross-over study investigating the prebiotic effect of agave fructans in healthy human subjects. J Nutr Sci. 2015;4:e10. 3. Figlewicz DP, Ioannou G, Bennett Jay J, Kittleson S, Savard C, Roth CL. Effect of moderate intake of sweeteners on metabolic health in the rat [published correction appears in Physiol Behav. 2010 Apr 19;99(5):691]. Physiol Behav. 2009;98(5):618-624. 4. Paul IM, Beiler JS, Vallati JR, Duda LM, King TS. Placebo effect in the treatment of acute cough in infants and toddlers: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Pediatr. 2014;168(12):1107-1113. 5. Eccles R. Mechanisms of the placebo effect of sweet cough syrups. Respir Physiol Neurobiol. 2006;152(3):340-348.}