History of Honey: Honey is produced by bees as natural food storage. The process begins by male bees gathering sugar filled nectar form neighboring plants and returning it to the hive. This natural product has been used in various forms by almost every culture throughout the world. In ancient Egypt honey was used as a form of currency. In Germany, honey was used to sweeten beverages such as beer, cider and wines. The Native Americans also used this miracle product as a fruit preservative and creating other herbal medicines. Honey can be found in any major retail establishment; however I highly advise you to visit your local farmer’s market and obtain this product in its pure natural form.
Fevers and Allergies: do you know someone that suffers from seasonal allergies? Honey has been known to immunize your body against allergies before allergy season arrives. Consuming local honey for two months before allergy season can lessen your allergies. Local bees carry the pollen and the nectar of the allergy producing plants. Therefore, by consuming a daily dose of honey prior to the arrival of heavy pollen it immunizes the body.
Natural Energy Boost: today many athletes consume energy boosting beverages during training or competitions. They do this because these beverages contain large quantities of carbohydrates. Recent studies have shown that local honey contains high levels of carbohydrates and glucose similar to that in many energy boosting beverages found on the market today. So next time you need a quick energy boost, don’t go for those high fructose corn syrup or the highly refined sugar drinks, try getting that natural boost from local honey.
Hangover: let’s make this clear, I am not a heavy drinker nor do I promote the abuse of alcoholic beverages. In the rare case that you wake up with a hangover, honey can be your best remedy. The natural sugar found in honey is known to speed up the oxidation process of alcohol. A mixture of natural yogurt, orange juice and honey is known to act as a sobering agent.
Sore Throat: Have you ever woken up with a sore throat? Honey and its antimicrobial properties have been known to soothe a sore throat and kill the bacteria that cause the infection. Many professional singers rely on this natural product to soothe their throats before performing.
Burns, Cuts and Bruises: honey also contains an anti-bacterial property that makes it ideal for use as a topical ointment. Honey can be used to prevent the growth of bacteria and keep cuts and wounds clean and free from infection. Keep honey close by while cooking, for burns honey is able to absorb the moisture from the air and promote healing.
Natural Skin Moisturizer: honey can be found in countless cosmetic products such as soaps, shampoos and moisturizers. It has a property that extracts water and helps the skin and hair absorb it. Try adding honey to your bath water to soften your skin, or making a natural hair conditioner by adding olive oil to honey. You can use a mixture of honey and milk to do your own facial or a mixture of sea salt, crushed oats and honey to make your own exfoliator.
Natural Sleep Aid: A glass of warm milk and honey can be used to soothe the soul and induce sleep. If milk is not your thing try adding 2 teaspoons of honey to your favorite tea before bed time. Please note that honey should never be given to infants it may result in sickness or death.