By Grace Miazga
Honey is a natural food that contains health benefits, thus known as a “functional food”. Its healing abilities are derived from its biological make-up. Honey contains many antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins and minerals all in their most natural form. However, many honey products in the grocery store are so processed and filtrated that, essentially, they aren’t real honey at all – and with that, it is assumed that any health benefits that come along with honey are lost in production.
The most advantageous form of honey is raw honey. Raw honey has a cloudy, opaque appearance, unlike what you might see with commercial brands. Commercial brand honeys are golden and clear, this is caused by excessive use of heat while being processed. Heat is what destroys most of the naturally occurring enzymes, vitamins, and minerals found in the raw form. The majority of honey products you’ll find on the shelf don’t contain pollen at all, and pollen is the one component that differentiates between the categories of raw and commercial honey. In other words, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says if the honey product does not contain pollen, it’s not truly honey.
So, what is honey? Mainly, sugar. In fact, about 70-80 percent of honey is sugar, and the rest is water and its nutrient composition. But, the sugar from honey is very different from white, cane sugar. Honey will not cause a sugar spike or elevate insulin-releasing levels, making it a safer choice for everyone, including individuals with diabetes. But diabetes isn’t the only thing honey helps keep in check. Years of compiled research has shown honey to be the body’s most organic care-taker. Since the late 19th century, honey has been found to have antibiotic properties, aiding ingredients, and healing potentials.
Sniffles and Cough Suppressor
Honey has been shown to outperform over-the-counter cough medications with the active ingredient dextromethorphan. Honey helps soothe the back of the throat by breaking up mucus, thus relieving congestion, coughing, and increasing restful sleeping.
Squeeze the juice of 1 orange, 1 lemon, and 1 grapefruit into a kettle. Add 1 tablespoon of honey. Stir while bring to a boil. Take off stove, add one 1 shot of brandy or whatever you prefer.
Skin
For centuries, honey has been proven effective in treating wounds, whether it’s a surface cut, a burn, or acne. Due to its anti-microbial and anti-fungal elements, honey has the potential to kill off multiple bacteria strains without leaving a scar behind.
Problem Area Remedy: Bring 1/3 cup of buttermilk to a boil. Take off stove immediately, add honey until a thick paste forms. Allow to cool. Dab onto problem area.
Honey Mask: Spread honey onto face. Wait 20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water.
Keeping Regular
Honey helps rehydrate the body allowing diarrhea to clear up more quickly. Because of its peroxide and non-peroxide properties, honey can effectively fight against MRSA strains and other bacteria that may be causing the unpleasant, frequent trips to the bathroom. On the flip side, honey also acts a mild laxative for those days when you’re feeling a little backed up.
Consume 2 teaspoons of honey 3 times per day OR combine 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in warm water. Drink every morning.
Constipation Specific: Blend 3 chopped rhubarb stalks, 1 cup apple juice, 1/4 peeled lemon, and 1 teaspoon of honey.
Diarrhea Specific: Combine 1 teaspoon raw garlic and 1 teaspoon of honey. Take 3 times per day 2 hours after each meal.
Exercise Performance
Honey contains 17 grams of carbohydrates per tablespoon making it an exceptional source of energy in a natural form compared to sugary sports drinks and gels. It can be used before, during, and after workouts as a generous energy and muscle recovery source.
Add preferred amount of honey to water bottle and shake.
Weight Reduction
Honey has many anti-inflammatory and antibiotic-resistant properties that help cleanse the liver, detoxify the body, and cut away unwanted fat.
Add 1 tablespoon honey plus the juice from 1 lemon to warm water and drink every morning before breakfast.
These are just a few things honey can have a healthful impact on. The list goes on with boosting memory, strengthening your immune system, reducing heart disease risk, relieving menopausal symptoms, and so much more. So, don’t be afraid to open your heart to mother nature’s most sweet and remedial gift. Its many holistic healing powers that have been cherished for centuries, so continue the tradition with yourself and your loved ones by keeping a jar in the pantry all year round!
Resources:
Bader, Dr. Myles H. (1997). Grandmother’s Home Remedies. Philadelphia, PA: TelAmerica Media.
