Honey has been used as a natural sweetener for centuries, and there are many reasons why. Not only does honey taste great, but it also has a variety of health benefits.
Raw honey is especially beneficial, as it contains all the nutrients and enzymes that are lost when honey is heated.
Top Benefits of Raw Honey
There are many benefits of raw honey. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments.
Raw honey is also a healthy, delicious, and versatile ingredient that can be added to your diet in many different ways. Here are some of the top benefits of raw honey.
#1 – A Good Source of Antioxidants
Raw honey contains a variety of antioxidants, which are important for fighting cell damage and keeping your body healthy.
These antioxidants can also help to reduce the risk of some chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
#2 – Raw Honey Nutrition
Raw honey is a nutritious food that contains many vitamins and minerals. It’s a good source of energy and it also has some antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Raw honey is also known to help with digestion and can be used as a natural cough syrup.
Generally, one tablespoon or 21 grams of raw honey contains 64 calories and 17 grams of sugar.
Raw honey also contains smaller amounts of the following micronutrients (or, vitamins and minerals):
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Manganese
- Niacin
- Pantothenic acid
- Phosphorous
- Potassium
- Riboflavin
- Zinc
In addition, raw honey is a source of varying amounts of amino acids, enzymes, and other beneficial compounds.
#3 – Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties
The antibacterial and antifungal properties of raw honey may be due to the fact that it contains hydrogen peroxide.
Hydrogen peroxide is a compound that has antimicrobial activity and is produced when bees add glucose oxidase to nectar.
The production of hydrogen peroxide stops when the honey is exposed to air, which is why raw honey should not be heated or processed.
#4 – Heals Wounds and Burns
When applied topically, raw honey has been shown to be effective in healing wounds and burns.
A review of studies concluded that honey is more effective than conventional treatments in reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new tissue.
Honey also has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that may help to protect the wound from infection.
To use honey as a natural wound treatment, simply apply it to the affected area and cover it with a bandage.
#5 – Phytonutrient Powerhouse
Raw honey contains phytonutrients, which are plant-based compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These nutrients can help to boost your immune system and protect your body against chronic diseases.
Some of the most important phytonutrients in raw honey include flavonoids, phenols, and enzymes.
#6 – Help with Digestive Issues
Raw honey may also help to relieve digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of raw honey can help to soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation.
To use raw honey for digestive relief, simply mix it with water or tea and drink it down.
You can also add a tablespoon of raw honey to a smoothie or yogurt.
#7 – Soothe a Sore Throat and Cough
Raw honey is a time-honored remedy for a sore throat or cough.
The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of raw honey can help to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.
Honey also has mucilage, which can help to coat the throat and protect it from irritation.
To use raw honey for a sore throat, simply mix it with warm water and drink it down.
You can also add a tablespoon of raw honey to your favorite herbal tea.
For an extra boost, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
#8 – Brain Benefits
Raw honey has also been shown to improve memory and cognitive function.
One study found that consuming raw honey improved memory and reaction times in students.
Another study showed that raw honey helped to improve sleep quality in people with insomnia.
If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your brain power, add a tablespoon of raw honey to your daily routine.
Are There Any Risks?
While raw honey offers many health benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks.
Raw honey can contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
To reduce your risk, make sure to buy raw honey from a reputable source.
Additionally, pregnant women and young children should avoid consuming raw honey.
If you’re pregnant or have a young child, you can still enjoy the benefits of raw honey by cooking with it.
Raw honey is a delicious and healthy addition to your diet. When consumed in moderation, it can offer a variety of health benefits. Be sure to purchase raw honey from a reputable source to reduce your risk of food poisoning.
How to Choose the Right Raw Honey?
When choosing raw honey, it’s important to select a brand that is trustworthy.
The best way to do this is to buy raw honey from a local beekeeper.
This way, you can be sure that the honey is pure and has not been processed.
Another option is to purchase raw honey from a health food store.
Be sure to read the labels carefully to ensure that you are getting a product that is 100 percent pure honey.
How Do I Store Raw Honey?
Once you have purchased raw honey, it’s important to store it properly.
Raw honey should be stored in a cool, dry place.
The best way to store raw honey is in a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
You can also store raw honey in the fridge if you prefer.
Conclusion
Honey is a delicious, healthy, and natural sweetener that has many benefits for your health. If you’re looking for an alternative to white sugar or artificial sweeteners, honey is a great option. Raw honey is even better because it retains all of its nutrients and enzymes. So go ahead and enjoy some raw honey today! What are your favorite ways to use honey?
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