Honey has been valued by many cultures for thousands of years for its health benefits. It’s been used to treat various issues like stomach problems and ulcers, as well as to heal wounds and burns. But what exactly makes honey so beneficial for our health?
One of the main health benefits of raw honey is its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help slow down aging and prevent some chronic diseases. Honey is the only food that contains pinocembrin, an antioxidant that can improve brain function and help treat brain hemorrhages, heart disease, and artery issues. Honey also has phytonutrients from plants, which act as antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Honey is as sweet as regular sugar, but unlike sugar, it doesn’t cause a quick spike in blood sugar or insulin levels. Studies have shown that replacing sugar with honey can lead to less weight gain and lower blood sugar levels. This makes honey a great alternative to artificial sweeteners, which can have negative side effects. Eating honey before bed can help you sleep better and give you a quick energy boost. Honey is also as effective as some cough syrups in relieving coughs and sore throats and can help with peptic ulcers.
Honey naturally prevents most microorganisms from growing, which is why it has been used as a preservative for a long time. Raw honey has been used to heal wounds, act as a natural antiseptic and antibiotic, and rejuvenate the skin. When applied to the skin, honey acts as a moisturizer and protects against sun damage. Honey’s antibacterial properties were first discovered in 1892, and many studies have since confirmed its effectiveness against different types of bacteria. Honey’s antibacterial and antifungal properties come from hydrogen peroxide and methylglyoxal. Manuka honey, in particular, has high levels of methylglyoxal, making it especially effective against bacteria. It has been shown to kill harmful bacteria and viruses and is used to treat antibiotic-resistant infections.
Hospitals now use bandages infused with medical-grade honey to reduce infections and speed up the healing of wounds, including burns. Honey is non-toxic and prevents dressings from sticking to wounds, creating an environment that promotes new tissue growth.
A study in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine stated that despite our limited understanding of raw honey’s therapeutic properties, it is underused and should be more widely recognized. In April 2020, clinical trials began in the US to see if natural honey could help COVID-19 patients, based on its success in treating upper respiratory infections. This highlights honey’s potential for even more health benefits.
It’s important to note that the health benefits of pure, natural honey are reduced by pasteurization and other commercial processes, which destroy its natural enzymes, vitamins, and phytonutrients. To get the most benefits from honey, it’s best to buy raw honey directly from local beekeepers.
Stay tuned to Zoi Organics as we continue to share insights and detailed explorations into the world of beekeeping in India. We will provide step-by-step guides, personal experiences, and everything you need to know about honey production.