6 Powerful Health Benefits of Honey

6 Health Benefits of Honey

Here are some of the powerful health benefits of honey:

Historically, raw honey is a popular folk remedy with many medical uses and health benefits. Some hospitals even use it as a part of wound treatment. You get most of these health benefits from raw or unpasteurized honey.

However, many grocery stores carry mostly pasteurized honey. The high heat removes any crystallization, improves the color and texture, kills unwanted yeast, and extends the shelf life.

Sadly, along with this, many valuable nutrients get destroyed in the process. Luckily, you can source raw honey from a trusted local producer if you’re interested in trying it. Here are a few health benefits raw honey offers you:

Heal wounds

Manuka honey is used to treat wounds in medical settings because it’s been proven to kill germs and help in tissue regeneration.

Studies reveal that Manuka honey can increase healing time and reduce infection. Using store-bought honey to treat cuts is risky. That’s because only medical-grade honey, which is inspected and sterile, is used in hospital settings.

Antibacterial And Antifungal Properties

Studies show that raw honey naturally contains an antiseptic known as hydrogen peroxide to kill unwanted bacteria and fungus. Its potency as an antibacterial or antifungal depends on the honey used. But it’s more than a mere folk remedy for these types of infections.

A Good Source Of Antioxidants

Raw honey is packed with various plant chemicals that act as antioxidants. These antioxidants defend your body's system from cell damage caused by free radicals. We find as many antioxidants in honey as in fruits and vegetables.

Free radicals cause chronic diseases, including cancer and heart disease, and contribute to the aging process. Research shows that antioxidant compounds in honey, known as polyphenols, help in preventing heart disease.

Phytonutrient Powerhouse

Phytonutrients are compounds that protect and shield plants from harm caused by insects or ultraviolet radiation. In honey, they are responsible for the antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties.

Studies attribute them to be the reason for raw honey’s anticancer and immune-boosting benefits. That’s why heavy processing destroys these valuable nutrients in raw honey.

Soothes Sore Throat

Honey is a great elixir for suppressing cold and soothing a sore throat. Studies indicate that honey is just as capable of giving the same results as dextromethorphan, a common ingredient in over-the-counter cough medication. If you have a cold, try one or two teaspoonfuls of honey, straight. You can also add it to hot tea with lemon.

Help for Digestive Issues

Honey is often used to treat digestive problems like diarrhea. However, much research has not been conducted to show its efficacy. However, honey is a proven treatment for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, a common cause of stomach ulcers.

It’s equally an effective prebiotic. That means that it stimulates the growth and activity of good bacteria in the intestines in ways that are beneficial for digestion but health.

Are There Any Risks?

While raw honey is loaded with nutrients and prebiotics, it can also carry some damaging bacteria such as Clostridium botulinum. This is especially life-threatening for babies. You should avoid giving raw honey to infants less than a year old.

The signs of botulism poisoning in infants may include:

✅paralysis that spreads downward

✅constipation

✅slow breathing

✅weakness

✅sagging eyelids

✅weak cry

✅absence of gagging

✅poor feeding

✅loss of head control

In adults, possible symptoms include a short period of diarrhea and vomiting at first, then constipation, and more grave signs, such as distorted vision and muscle weakness. If you experience any of these after eating raw honey, see a doctor for an examination and treatment.

These are some of the powerful health benefits associated with consuming honey.

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