What is honey?

Honey is a thick golden-yellow hued sweet liquid obtained naturally from a long process by the honeybees.

It is a natural sweetener. But not all honey is natural. Commercially manufactured honey is usually heated at high temperatures for pasteurisation. This heating process usually destroys the beneficial enzymes and antioxidants found in its raw form, thereby degrading honey’s nutritional content. Honey in its raw form is the most beneficial type. It is unprocessed and thus has its nutritional values intact. 

 

benefits of consuming honey

 

 

 

1. Honey is rich in vitamins and minerals: It is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and iron. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy body.
2. Honey has antibacterial and antifungal properties: It can even be used as a disinfectant. Honey has been used to treat ulcers and heal wounds in Ayurveda.
3. It’s often used as a substitute for sugar: Honey can be used in many drinks and deserts instead of sugar. It blends well and also has more nutritive value than white sugar. Honey also aids in weight loss.
4. Honey boosts memory: Honey is loaded with antioxidants which prevent cellular damage. Honey also facilitates calcium absorption in the body promoting brain health. 
5. Honey as a remedy for Cold: Studies indicate that consuming honey during cold has a positive impact on overall body health, curing sore throat and cough. It is one of the most commonly used benefits of honey. It can also be used to treat upper respiratory tract infections. 
6. Honey helps facilitate a good night’s sleep: Honey helps to release serotonin – a neurotransmitter which regulates sleep.  One tablespoon honey in a warm glass of milk before bed can facilitate a good sleep.
7. Honey treats dandruff: Honey mixed with little water and applied on the scalp can treat problem areas. Leaving the mixture on for three hours and then rinsing can help reduce itching, dandruff, and hair loss.
8. Helps to prevent cancer: Honey has carcinogen preventing and anti-tumor properties, also rich in antioxidants, honey can help reduce cancer risks.
9. Acts as a natural energy drink: Honey can give a quick boost of energy to an individual. The rise in blood sugar acts as a short-term energy source for your workout, especially in longer endurance exercises.

 

 home remedies with honey

 

 

 

 

• Dandruff treatment: Make a solution of 90% honey with 10% water. Apply this mix on scalp and cover with a shower cap. Rinse after three hours. Repeat this every other day for four weeks and then once every week to maintain the benefit.
• Sunburn remedy: Mix one teaspoon honey , one teaspoon olive oil and ¼ teaspoon lemon juice. Apply this on affected areas and leave for about 10-12 minutes. Wash with tepid water.
• Face mask for dry skin: Mix 1 tsp yogurt, 1 tsp honey and 4-5 drops of olive oil. Apply on the face without massaging. Let sit for 8-10 minutes. Wash the face with warm water.
• Honey for weight loss: Consuming 1 tsp raw honey mixed with 2 tablespoon lemon juice in a hot glass of water, every morning, can help in weight loss.

 

Excess of anything is harmful. Thus, it is recommended to consume honey in moderation. Honey has a high concentration of fructose which instantly boosts up insulin and therefore can be harmful to diabetic individuals. 

 

 

 

Proofread and edited by Jane Vivian