The Healing Powers of Honey

Honey has been prized around the world since time immemorial for its flavour, as well as its medicinal qualities. Jars of honey dating back to 5,500 years ago were found in a noblewoman’s tomb in Georgia, showing how treasured honey has been through the ages.

Honey is a sweet substance that bees produce from the nectar of flowering plants. Many types are available depending on the plant type. Honey is loved around the world for its flavour, texture and versatility.

And it’s good for you.

Honey was used as a healing ointment at least as far back as Ancient Egyptian times, and its popularity as a wound care product has had a recent resurgence. Researchers believe that honey’s healing powers come from its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. It also has the ability to nourish surrounding tissue, making it effective for wound healing. Pharmaceutical preparations of honey are now well-evidenced as excellent topical antibiotics with healing properties.

Honey is rich in antioxidants, known for their properties in reducing the risk of cell damage and certain cancers. A growing body of evidence links honey with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type two diabetes; due to its action on harmful triglycerides – chemicals linked to insulin resistance and inflammatory disease. Honey is also thought to increase HDL – ‘good’– cholesterol while decreasing LDL – ‘bad’ – cholesterol.

Honey has been popular for generations as a traditional home remedy for sore throats, hay fever, skin conditions, and coughs and colds. Regular honey is often pasteurised and processed, so raw honey is the best way to maximize potential health benefits.

DRAWBACKS TO HONEY

Although researchers have found a possible connection between honey and a lower glycaemic index compared to other sugars, consuming honey still means you are consuming sugar, which does affect your blood sugar in some way. Eat only a moderate amount of honey in your diet, or replace processed sugars with honey for a sensible approach.

Current advice from the World Health Organisation is that honey should not be given to infants under twelve months, as in rare cases honey may harbour certain bacteria which, while harmless to older children and adults, can cause serious illness in babies.

In short...
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Honey is high in certain substances which are known to promote health and reduce certain diseases. There is compelling evidence for its use in wound treatment, and ongoing research into its potential for reducing the risk of cancer and other serious illness. While honey is high in healthy chemicals, it’s also high in sugars – better forms of sugar than most other sweet foods, but still high in calories, so moderation is the key.