Benefits of honey
The proven nutritional and health benefits of honey make it the most valuable ingredient to include in your diet. Moderate consumption of honey, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antitumor properties, can help treat and prevent a variety of diseases. According to Nutrionix.com, 1 tablespoon (20 grams) of honey contains 64 calories, 0 grams of fat, 0 grams of protein, 0 grams of fiber, 17 grams of carbohydrates, and 17 grams of sugar. There are 634 Ayurvedic medicines, which include honey, for treating various diseases ranging from eye diseases, cough, thirst, phlegm, hiccups, leprosy, diabetes, obesity, parasites, vomiting, asthma, diarrhea to wound healing. Due to its low glycemic index, it is recommended as a healthy alternative to sugar. Its antioxidant properties are useful for a healthy and disease-free life.
It’s crucial for the honey you use to retain its healthy bacteria for maximum effectiveness. Raw honey, directly sourced from beehives, contains beneficial bee pollen, bee propolis, and abundant antioxidants. Dark honey varieties boast a higher antioxidant content, activating your immune system. In contrast, regular honey undergoes a pasteurization process.
Various honey types, such as Multiflora honey, Eucalyptus honey, Ajwain honey, Sidr honey, and others, are available. Currently, Multiflora honey dominates the market share. Exploring the wellness benefits of consuming it in moderation and under medical guidance is advisable.
Natural Moisturizer and Skin Brightening Agent
Honey naturally moisturizes and rejuvenates dull skin, bringing back its natural radiance. As raw honey undergoes crystallization, its fine granules serve as a mild exfoliator, providing toning, smoothing, brightening, and depigmentation benefits.
Anti-aging
The combination of probiotics, antioxidants, nutrients, and enzymes in honey collaborates to nourish and firm the skin. Although it doesn’t erase wrinkles entirely, it lessens their visibility. The antioxidants play a role in reversing damage caused by the sun.
Treating acne
The inherent antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial properties of honey assist in soothing adolescent acne, unclogging pores, eliminating bacteria, and managing scars resulting from sunburn.
Treatment of burns and wounds
The immunomodulatory properties of honey have been linked to wound healing. Most of honey’s antibacterial effect comes from the enzymatic production of hydrogen peroxide. However, peroxide-free honey (e.g. Manuka honey) exhibits significant antibacterial effects even when the activity of hydrogen peroxide is blocked. Manuka honey is a unique type of honey produced by bees that pollinate the Leptospermum scoparium plant (also known as the tea tree) native to Australia and New Zealand. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), part of the US National Library of Medicine, the mechanism is related to honey’s low pH and high sugar content (high osmolality), which are sufficient to support microbial growth to inhibit. . According to Ayurveda, applying a mixture of olive oil and honey to wounds, blisters and inflammation can effectively heal them.
For diabetics
Honey boasts the lowest glycemic load, indicating its minimal impact on blood glucose levels after consumption. When consumed in moderation, the antioxidants in honey provide protection against metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes. According to NCBI, extensive research, including animal studies, preclinical trials, and RCTs, has consistently demonstrated the positive effects of honey on diabetes. The anti-diabetic effects are attributed to honey’s capacity to regulate adiponectin levels and its antioxidant prowess, as reported by NCBI.
Note: Individuals with diabetes should consume honey under medical supervision.
Cancer treatment
Honey serves as a natural immune enhancer and holds significant promise in cancer treatment due to its ability to inhibit cell proliferation, induce programmed cell death, and cause cell-cycle arrest. When consumed in moderation and under medical guidance, honey is recognized by NCBI for its positive effects on various cancers, including breast cancer, liver cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and others, offering a healthier alternative to sugar.
Enhances Cardiovascular Health
Weight loss
Honey may support weight loss by assisting in reducing blood pressure, regulating heartbeats, preventing the loss of healthy cells, and promoting overall heart health. Raw honey, containing propolis, a resin produced by bees, has been associated with improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Limited human studies, as reported by heart.org, suggest that the antioxidants in honey may contribute to enhancing cholesterol levels. It is important to note that honey should be consumed in moderation and under medical supervision, especially for weight loss purposes.
Alleviating Cough
Honey is recognized for its potential in relieving cough symptoms. Its soothing properties can help ease throat irritation and provide relief from persistent coughing. Consuming honey, either on its own or mixed with warm water or tea, is a popular natural remedy for cough relief.
Promoting Restful Sleep
Honey is known for its potential to contribute to a good night’s sleep. Its natural properties may help in calming the body and mind, fostering relaxation conducive to better sleep quality. Consuming honey before bedtime, perhaps mixed with warm milk or herbal tea, is a popular natural remedy to promote sound sleep.
