Skip to main content
ASOHNS ASM 2025
ASOHNS ASM 2025
Times are shown in your local time zone GMT

How ENT Surgeons Made Way for Chocolate Cough Syrups

Poster
Edit Your Submission
Edit

Poster

Disciplines

Default

Presentation Description

Institution: Westmead Hospital Otolaryngology Department - NSW, Australia

Aim: To explore the historical and scientific developments that led to the incorporation of chocolate as an active ingredient in cough syrups, highlighting the pivotal contributions of ENT surgeons in advocating for its therapeutic use. Methods: A literature review was conducted, focusing on primary historical accounts, clinical trials, and pharmacological studies exploring the medicinal properties of chocolate. Particular emphasis was placed on ENT specialists’ observations and interventions in respiratory and throat conditions. Scholarly articles, medical textbooks, and pharmaceutical archives were analyzed to identify key milestones in this unique integration. Results: ENT surgeons played a crucial role in recognizing the demulcent and antitussive properties of chocolate. Historical records from the 18th and 19th centuries reveal that cocoa-based formulations were first trialed for throat irritation due to their smooth texture and soothing effects. During the early 19th century, Hershey’s released cocoa powder and syrups that were advertised in the druggists (pharmacists) magazines, introducing it as a medicine. This palatability of a medication contrasted the historical bitterness of conventional medicines the time. Modern studies supported these observations, demonstrating that theobromine, a compound in cocoa, effectively suppresses cough reflexes by acting on vagal afferent nerves. Clinical trials confirmed that chocolate-based syrups showed greater patient compliance due to their palatability, with ENT specialists endorsing their dual role in reducing cough and soothing the mucosa. Conclusion: The advocacy of ENT surgeons was pivotal in bridging traditional remedies and scientific validation, leading to the development of chocolate cough syrups. Their efforts underscore the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in medical innovation, transforming a popular indulgence into a therapeutic agent that combines efficacy with patient appeal.

Speakers

Authors

Authors

Dr Pranav Shivashankar - , Prof Narinder Singh -