When we think of a metaphor to describe something sweet, “sweet as honey” comes to mind. Early humans discovered honey thousands of years before sugarcane. Historians believe that our ancestors probably sampled the contents of a fallen wild beehive and lavished its sweetness. Until that point, fruit was the only sweet treat around.
Through the years, humans have established a relationship with the lowly honeybee to share their harvest. Ancient civilizations found that not only did honey provide a delicious flavor for food and drinks, but it was also useful medicinally. Whether you sweeten your tea with honey or use it as a delightful ingredient in cooking, you can enjoy its many health benefits. Here is the “sweet news” about this natural sweetener that has the people buzzing.
1. It’s Rich in Antioxidants
Honey is a rich source of antioxidants: You have probably read medical reports about free radicals in the body and how they cause cell damage. The results can be early aging and a plethora of other disorders. Studies around the world have demonstrated that natural antioxidants found in honey can reduce the ill effects of free radicals and promote better health.
2. Benefits the Respiratory System
Long before antibiotics came around, people often reached for honey to curb their ailments. Did you wake up with a nagging cough? A teaspoon of honey with a little lemon juice often brings the relief you need. Research shows a positive correlation between honey and improved respiratory health. While great for adults, honey should never be given to children who are under a year old.
3. It’s A Natural Antimicrobial
When your grandparents got a burn, they likely covered it with a dab of honey. Today, the medical community has studied the healing effects of honey on wounds. Not only does it soothe burns, but it wards off infection and expedites healing. Applying honey topically can also help skin conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis.
4. It’s A Great Alternative Sweetener for Diabetics
Although honey is a natural alternative to sugar, it’s high in calories, and it should be consumed in moderation. It’s delicious, and you don’t need to worry about the dangers of chemical sweeteners. If you have diabetes, talk to your doctor and nutritionist about how you can safely implement honey into your diet.
5. A Natural Blood Pressure Stabilizer
Do you have high blood pressure? Well, honey may help lower it. This common disorder is linked to heart attacks, strokes, cancer, and other deadly diseases. Scientists have found an encouraging link between consuming honey and lowering blood pressure. While the data is still incomplete, doctors are still hopeful.
Honey experts recommend that you buy a pure variety from a local source. The color and taste of your honey will depend on the flowers and plants that the bees visited. Enjoyed in moderation, this natural mix may please your palate and benefit your whole family’s health.
