15 Health Benefits of Raw Honey

Today’s blog is republished from my friends at RealDaily, a leading publisher of alternative health tips that I personally read every day…

We just can’t stop talking about raw honey. This incredible natural remedy has so many uses, we feel like we can’t live without it!

Here are 15 of the best uses for natural, unpasteurized honey.

1. Soothes allergies

One of the best ways to soothe allergies is with locally sourced, unpasteurized honey. It is said that the compounds in the honey improve one’s tolerance to the pollens found in the local area. Try mixing the honey into cooled nettle tea for an excellent remedy.

2. Fights infection

Feel a sore throat coming on? Have a teaspoonful of honey; its natural antibacterial properties will help fight the bad bugs.

3. Clears acne

Honey fights infection, balances moisture, and heals wounds effectively, so it’s basically the ideal acne fighter! Simply dab a small amount of raw honey onto affected areas to help prevent and heal acne.

4. Natural energy drink

We recommend avoiding commercial energy drinks which are laden with sugar and artificial ingredients. Drink water with raw honey instead.

5. Assists with memory loss

Studies have indicated that consuming raw honey can help prevent hormone-related cognitive decline in older people.

6. Suppresses a cough

If you have a dry, tickly cough, there is no better cure than a spoonful of raw honey. This amazing remedy also reduces inflammation and fights infection, so a respiratory infection or even chronic asthma will certainly benefit from regular honey consumption.

7. Supports better sleep

Raw honey promotes blood sugar stability to keep you sound asleep all night long. It also increases the production of the brain chemicals serotonin and melatonin to assist with well-being and overall healing.

8. Natural shampoo

Did you know that you can wash your hair with raw honey? Try mixing a tablespoon with a little warm water to create a gentle shampoo that is moisturizing and smells great. Don’t worry, it rinses clean and won’t leave hair sticky.

9. Antibiotic for wounds

Honey has been used on wounds since ancient times. It fights infection naturally and can be used as an antiseptic. Hospitals even use honey on bandages to prevent infection.

10. Natural face wash

There is no need to buy expensive skin-care products, which are full of chemicals and perfumes. Raw honey cleanses the skin while also providing moisture. In addition, it contains antioxidants that fight the signs of aging. What’s not to love!

Honey is the best natural face wash. To use, wet your face with warm water, then smooth on about half a teaspoon of honey. If you want an exfoliating scrub, mix a little baking soda, salt or sugar into the honey before applying in circular motions. Leave on for a minute or two, then rinse with warm water.

11. Healthy baking ingredient

Try sweetening recipes with honey instead of refined sugar or other “healthy” sweeteners. Honey is a functional food — it’s our top choice for a naturally healthy sweet flavor. Use in coffee, tea, grain-free baked goods and smoothies.

12. Reduces inflammation

Raw honey is known to reduce levels of an inflammatory marker called homocysteine. This is considered to be an important indicator of protection against chronic inflammatory illness such as heart disease.

13. Treats dandruff

Since honey is known to be antibacterial and antifungal, it is effective against flaky skin conditions such as dandruff and eczema.

14. Preserves food

Honey’s natural antibacterial properties make it the perfect food additive to prevent spoilage.

15. Improves digestion

Raw honey is rich in prebiotics, which provide fuel for healthy bacteria in the lower digestive system. It is also known to fight nausea and indigestion because it does not ferment in the stomach.

Try making a digestion-boosting drink by mixing a teaspoon each of lemon juice, raw apple cider vinegar and raw honey into a tall glass of water and drink two or three times daily. Add a little freshly squeezed ginger root juice if nausea is an issue.

Risks of raw honey

Sometimes, eating raw honey can cause a form of food poisoning called botulism, which results in muscle weakness and breathing problems. This is due to bacterial spores that can contaminate unpasteurized honey.

However, this is only a concern with infants younger than 12 months old, or people with a compromised immune system. Children and adults can safely consume raw honey because they have a more robust digestive system, which is not disturbed by the presence of spores.

Here is link to the original article.

Remember to always purchase and use raw, unfiltered honey for the best results. You can find raw honey in your favorite health food store. If you’d like local honey, check your community farmers’ market for the best results.

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