Referred to as “the nectar of the gods” by the ancient Greeks, honey has long been revered for its organic sweetness and diverse utilitarianism. Throughout history, this age-old bee byproduct has been employed as a natural sugar alternative, as well as everything from ancient currency to a religious offering to a holistic cure-all.
Even with all the advancements of modern medicine, many health professionals still value this sticky sweetener for its therapeutic properties. Recognized as an antioxidant-rich antimicrobial, honey has been found to alleviate a number of ailments, including:
- Acne. Research has shown manuka and kanuka varieties of honey can treat the inflammation and infection associated with cystic acne.
- Bug bites. Honey’s anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the itch and irritation of mosquito and other bug bites.
- Cough. Multiple studies have found honey to be a potent cough suppressant in people with minor upper respiratory infections. One 2010 study published in the Journal of Alternative & Complementary Medicine even determined a dose of honey to be more effective than two of the most common over-the-counter cough medicines.
- Free radical damage. Honey boasts a large concentration of polyphenols, antioxidants that help protect against cancer and contribute to heart health.
- Indigestion. A 2006 study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that substituting honey for sugar in processed foods improved the gut microflora of male mice. Some scientists believe honey can deliver similar digestive benefits in humans.
- Skin abrasions. The naturally-existing hydrogen peroxide in honey fights infection and prevents bacteria from entering minor cuts and scrapes. iBi
Source: Shape magazine, shape.com
