People have used raw honey in traditional medicine for centuries. This sweet, natural substance can contain healthy substances that are not used as honey. Honey offers a variety of health benefits. Raw honey, which comes directly from a hive, contains healthy bee pollen, bee propolis, and many antioxidants.
Studies have not confirmed that raw honey has more health benefits than regular honey, but some people believe that the processing and lubrication of regular honey reduce many of the benefits. Some people believe that because of this, raw honey offers many more health benefits than conventional bees. Most of the honey you find in grocery stores has attachments. High temperatures kill unwanted yeast, can improve color and texture, eliminate any crystallization, and extend shelf life. Many beneficial nutrients are also destroyed during the process.
Health benefits of raw honey
Antioxidant effects
Researchers believe that some of the major health benefits of honey come from its antioxidant content. Natural honey contains a range of chemicals that act as antioxidants, including phytochemicals, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid. Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress in the body by releasing free radicals. Scientists have linked oxidative stress to a variety of chronic health conditions, including many cancers. By eating antioxidant-rich foods, people can reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Some people believe that pasteurization reduction reduces the number of antioxidants in honey, meaning that the attached honey may not offer the same benefits as raw honey. There are no specific studies on how pasteurization affects bee antioxidants, but studies show that burning certain foods can reduce antioxidant content.
Nutrition
Honey contains certain nutrients that can make it a healthy addition to the diet. The nutritional and chemical composition of immature bees varies from country to country and depends in part on which types of bees collect their nectar. Regardless of the substance, honey still contains healthy substances, such as antioxidants, amino acids, and vitamins.
One teaspoon or 21 grams (g) of raw honey contains 64 calories and 16 g of sugar. These prices may vary between products and collections.
Natural honey naturally contains a small amount of the following vitamins and minerals:
- pantothenic acid
- calcium
- magnesium
- manganese
- potassium
- phosphorus
- zinc
Honey naturally contains sugar. More than half of all sugary sugars are fructose. Studies have linked fructose with various health problems. However, regardless of fructose content, honey can be a healthier way than table sugar. Some studies suggest that honey may provide a protective effect on diabetes and that some forms of honey may help improve cholesterol levels.
People with diabetes or those who are on a diet low in sugar can choose to eat honey in moderation to avoid major changes in their blood sugar levels. Pure honey has a 58 glycemic index (GI), which means that it has a moderate effect on blood sugar levels. Learn about the GI scale here.
Antibacterial action
Honey can help clean wounds and prevent infection. Honey is a natural anti-bacterial and antimicrobial agent. It contains hydrogen peroxide and glucose oxidase and has a low pH level, which means it can kill harmful bacteria and fungi. Also, because of its unique chemical composition, it does not help yeast or bacteria to grow.
Because of its antibacterial activity, people can use it to clean wounds,
Studies have shown that manuka honey, a type of raw honey, can kill common germs, including:
- Escherichia coli or E. coli, a bacterium that causes food poisoning and wound infections
- Staphylococcus aureus or S.aureus, a virus that causes skin infections
- Helicobacter pylori or H. pylori, a bacterium that causes stomach ulcers and chronic gastritis
Wound healing
Numerous studies have suggested that honey works just as well as a wound dressing. The review confirms that honey helps in wound healing due to its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Other evidence suggests that honey also has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Also, honey is acidic, which helps to remove oxygen from the wound and promote healing. Apply raw honey directly to a small incision and heat and place gauze or bandage over the wound. Alternatively, people can buy manuka honey wound care products from other drug stores, or choose between online brands.
More Reading: Benefits of Honey for Looking Glorious Skin
Relieving cough
Numerous studies have suggested that honey may or may not work better than some over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicines. Many cough medicines are not safe for young children to take, so honey can be a good option for children over one year of age.
Meta-analysis suggests that honey may provide an effective way to reduce the severity and frequency of a child’s cough at night. One small-scale study found that milk and one type of honey formula relieve children’s coughs as effectively as an OTC drug. To reduce coughing, take a teaspoon of raw honey and avoid other drinks or food afterward so that the honey covers the throat.
Treatment of diarrhea
Raw honey can have a calming effect on digestion, helping with symptoms of diarrhea. A study of 150 children with acute gastroenteritis found that those who received honey with an oral rehydration solution were more likely to recover from diarrhea than those who did not. Babies who received honey had minimal bowel movements and recovered quickly from the illness.
To help treat minor diarrhea, try taking a teaspoon of raw honey or mixing honey with a drink. Avoid taking too much honey as too much sugar can make diarrhea worse.
Help with digestive problems
Honey is sometimes used to treat digestive problems such as diarrhea, or there is not much research to show that it works. It is effective in treating bacterial infections Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), however, is the most common cause of stomach ulcers. And a strong prebiotic, which means it feeds on the good bacteria that live in the gut, is important not only for digestion but for overall health.
Soften the sore throat
Do you have a cold? Try a tablespoon of soju. Honey is an old remedy for sore throats. Add hot tea and lemon if the cold virus attacks you. It also acts as a cough suppressant. Studies have suggested that honey acts as dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in store cough medicine. Just take one or two tablespoons, straight.
Protecting the brain
Raw honey has anti-inflammatory properties. Other evidence suggests that honey may have an anti-inflammatory effect that can help the brain. Animal studies have found that rat-eaten rats have a protective effect on brain damage caused by lead exposure. Also, reviews suggest that raw honey may contain ingredients that help fight inflammation in the hippocampus, the part of the brain involved in memory.
FAQ
Is a spoonful of honey a day good for you?
The Antioxidants in It Are Linked to Other Beneficial Effects on Heart Health. Again, honey is a rich source of phenols and other antioxidant compounds. Many of these have been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. They may help the arteries in your heart dilate, increasing blood flow to your heart.
Is it safe to eat raw honey?
It is safe for people to consume both raw and regular honey, though it is a good idea to avoid types of honey that contain added sugars. Both raw and regular honey may contain tiny amounts of a bacteria known as Clostridium botulinum. This bacteria can cause botulism, which is a rare form of food poisoning.
How much raw honey should you eat a day?
About 50ml of honey per day is optimal and you shouldn't consume more than that. However, if you suffer from any health ailments, do consult with your doctor before making honey a part of your diet.
What is the best way to eat honey?
Combine a cup of yogurt or milk with whatever fresh (or frozen) fruit you have, place it into a blender and top off with a big spoonful of honey. Honey's richness in antioxidants will help your body flush out all of those unwanted toxins so you can get on with your day.
