Honey, a natural sweetener which is a product of bees, has been used both as a food and as a treatment for certain illnesses for more than a thousand years now. An abundant source of vitamin B6, vitamin B2, Manganese, and Iron, honey is considered as the most acceptable natural cure.

Being an antimicrobial, antioxidant, and hygroscopic at the same time, honey is undoubtedly beneficial to the body and is an effective cure for a number of diseases. Listed below are nine of the natural benefits of honey:

• It boosts the immune system. Honey has the capacity to increase the levels of polyphenolic antioxidant in the body and, at the same time, lessens the risk of damaging some free radicals in the body. Its anti-bacterial properties also improve the digestive system. In addition, a teaspoon of honey a day tends to raise the blood levels of the protective antioxidants in the body. It keeps the body stay healthy and it reduces the chances of acquiring sickness easily.

• Relieves arthritis and joint pain. Arthritis and joint pains can be caused by other illnesses such as diabetes and obesity. Minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus can be found in honey. These properties inhibit bacteria, fight body toxins, and maintain the balance of vital acid-alkaline; thus, relieving the joint pains. It also increases the body’s capability to move.

• Relieves sore throats. Honey has been long known and used for the treatment of coughs and sore throats. It does not only soothe the throat, but kills the bacteria that trigger the infection as well. There are two ways on how honey can be taken in – as a tea or as raw syrup. For a more effective remedy for such illnesses, make sure you get to have a teaspoonful of honey twice a day.

• Serves as energy booster. A source of carbohydrates, honey provides energy and strength to the body. It boosts and improves body performance and endurance. The natural sweetener is essential in combating fatigue especially during activities that require more physical effort. The glucose content of honey is quickly absorbed by the body and it immediately boosts the energy present in the body while the fructose that is slowly absorbed helps in sustaining the energy.

• Helpful for hangovers. It is advisable to drink honey tea when you are experiencing hangovers. It provides a relieving and heating effect on the stomach. Moreover, honey has a mixture of natural sugars like fructose which is said to accelerate the oxidation of the alcohol in the liver, making you feel sober after a little while. The fructose is the one responsible for the rapid change in the alcohol levels that causes severe headache and other feeling experienced during hangovers.

• Used for mild acne. Being an anti-microbial agent which is caused by the enzymes that produce hydrogen peroxide, honey prohibits the growth of bacteria. It does not leave the skin dry since it provides a moisturizing effect on the skin. Scars and acnes can be healed by honey because of its capacity to heal wounds. Containing mainly of both fructose and glucose that attract water strongly, honey absorbs the water from the wound, leaving it dry; thus, inhibiting the growth of fungi and bacteria. It can be used as a cleansing scrub, skin moisturizer, or lotion for dry patches. Studies also show that honey heals acnes and minimizes scars better and faster than any medicinal treatment for the skin.

• Beneficial for dry hair. For many centuries now, honey has been used as a hair treatment. It can make any type of hair become healthy and shiny. It holds water molecules which is great for treating dry and damaged hair. To make your hair soft and shiny, put honey on your damp hair and leave it there for a minimum of 20 minutes. Apply shampoo and conditioner when rinsing. For hair growth, mix 3 to 6 tablespoons of honey with 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Use it as a conditioner.

• Promotes sleep. Insomnia and uneasy sleeping is one of the diseases which are irritating. There are several factors why a person has sleeping disorders; one of which is obesity. According to previous studies, taking in a tablespoon or two of this natural sweetener before bedtime improves the quality of sleep a person can get without gaining weight. It is also proven that honey promotes restorative sleep and has an effect which makes the mind feel calm.

• Used for eye conditions such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, and eyelid inflammation. If you are worrying of damaging your eyesight because you are in front of the computer for hours every day, grab a honey and worry no more. Based on research, honey is said to be good for improving eyesight and curing watery eyes. It is commonly used for treating eye problems such as conjunctivitis and glaucoma since it effectively reduces the intraocular tension. Blend two teaspoonfuls of honey with carrot juice and drink it regularly in order for you to have healthier eyesight. For eyelid inflammation and allergies in the eyes, dilute honey in water and use it like an eye-drop. You can also mix honey in heated – not boiling – water. Let it cool for a while and when the heat is tolerable, you can now rub a little on the infected area or the swollen parts. Do this at least twice a day so that its healing properties will work faster.

Containing many properties and compounds capable of treating illnesses, honey is definitely a useful natural remedy. It can be taken in directly or by using it in breads or even mixing it with water. Despite being more effective than the other medicines, honey is way cheaper and easier to find. Lastly, it tastes better than the other remedies. However, honey should not be used by pregnant women and one-year old babies. Also, it should not be exposed to very hot temperature nor should it be mixed with boiling water. Spicy foods and strong alcoholic drinks should not be taken in along with honey. Some of its properties might be poisonous and could be fatal.

Sources
benefits-of-honey.com
associatedcontent.com
bees-online.com
amazing-green-tea.com