Raw Honey Benefits
When we look at the word “raw”, we associated it with the preservation of important vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Just as raw vegetables are preferable because of their nutritional content, the same is true of honey. Raw honey is honey that has not been heated, pasteurized or processed in any way. The differences between raw and pasteurized honey are substantial. Raw honey is an alkaline-forming food that contains natural vitamins, enzymes, powerful antioxidants and other important natural nutrients. These are the very nutrients that are destroyed during the heating and pasteurization process. In fact, pasteurized honey is equivalent to and just as unhealthy as eating refined sugar.
Raw honey has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties. It promotes body and digestive health, is a powerful antioxidant, strengthens the immune system, eliminates allergies, and is an excellent remedy for skin wounds and all types of infections. Raw honey’s benefits don’t stop there. Raw honey can also stabilize blood pressure, balance sugar levels, relieve pain, calm nerves, and it has been used to treat ulcers. Raw honey is also an expectorant and anti-inflammatory and has been known to effectively treat respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma.
Raw honey purchased from a local source is an excellent way of treating seasonal allergies. Local honey is preferred for treating allergies because the likelihood is great that it will contain small amounts of the specific pollens an individual may be allergic to.
Raw Honey is an effective
natural remedy for a
variety of conditions
For centuries, honey has been used to treat all sorts of ailments. It can be applied topically to heal wounds and rashes, or it can be taken internally to treat infections and address other health concerns. Although there are numerous remedies, the following are popular remedies for common everyday conditions. For skin burns, rashes, and abrasions, place a honey poultice over the affected area.
Raw honey is also an effective treatment for acne. A small amount placed on blemishes and acne nightly will often clear the skin in a short period of time. Washing your face with honey will also leave you with sparkling, clean, soft skin.
Raw honey’s antibiotic properties are effective in treating colds and sore throats. Raw honey coats the throat and reduces irritation. For blocked sinuses, mix a teaspoon of honey in a pot of hot water, put a towel over your head, and just inhale the steam. To treat allergies, take a teaspoon of raw honey a couple of times a day starting a few months prior to allergy season.
The health benefits of this unprocessed honey are vast, and it’s not only a main ingredient in some foods, but is also used in a number of health and beauty products. However, children younger than 12 months should not eat honey, according to the Global Healing Center. Before then, a child’s intestinal tract cannot handle some of the natural ingredients occurring in raw honey.
Skin Benefits
Raw honey acts as an amazing natural salve for burns and ulcers. Apply the honey under a dry bandage to treat inflammation and promote healing of cuts and other wounds. Raw honey is also a great moisturizer for dry skin and can even be used in the treatment of eczema. Apply the raw honey straight to skin, combine it with other moisturizing products or look for over-the-counter products that contain raw honey as an ingredient. According to WebMD, honey is also great as an ingredient in exfoliating products and to reduce scarring of wounds as they heal.
Stomach Soother
A spoonful of raw honey each day acts as a stomach soother. Pregnant women with morning sickness, those that suffer from nausea and constipation, and those who suffer from regular stomach aches can benefit from raw honey, according to the Global Healing Center.
Vitamin Supplement
Honey provides essential antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, carbohydrates and phytonutrients to the body.
Other Great Benefits
The naturally occurring carbohydrates in honey make it a great energy booster for people on the go. It’s also a helpful treatment for bad breath when mixed with cinnamon.