The history of honey dates back thousands of years, possibly even to the Stone Age. A natural substance produced by bees from the nectar of flowers, raw honey has been prized since ancient times. In fact, according to this article in the Smithsonian Magazine, honey is believed to be one of the pillars that has helped in the evolution of humans.
Raw honey was once considered a luxury item, and its value goes beyond just being a natural sweetener – it has a whole range of health benefits as well. From managing blood pressure and cholesterol to suppressing coughs, the uses and benefits of raw honey are manifold.
In this article, we will explore how the rich history, scientific benefits, and role in herbal medicine make raw honey a true superfood. Plus, we will share tips on how to ensure that what you are getting is genuine, unadulterated raw honey.
An Ancient Remedy
The use of honey can be traced back to ancient civilizations where it was revered not only as a sweetener but also as a potent medicinal substance. The ancient Greeks, Romans, Egyptians, and Chinese all utilized honey for its healing properties.
In fact, the Greeks considered honey as an elixir of life, with Hippocrates – regarded as the father of modern medicine – often prescribing it for various ailments. Another famous physician and medical researcher, Galen – the most influential and esteemed in the Roman Empire – praised honey for its ability to treat wounds and infections. Similarly, in traditional Chinese medicine, honey was used to harmonize the liver, relieve pain, and act as an antidote for poisons.
Furthermore, in some ancient civilizations, the uses of honey went beyond health and food. For example, in Egypt, as well as using honey in wound care and as a natural preservative for their food or sweetener for their wine, they also used it as an embalming fluid and as an offering to the gods.
In the Middle Ages, honey continued to be highly valued. As well as a medicinal ingredient, in Europe, honey was also used to make mead – a popular drink often used in ceremonies and celebrations.
Raw Honey or Regular Honey?
Did you know that there is a difference between raw honey and regular honey? Most of the health benefits of honey are derived from raw honey, not the regular kind that is commercially found on supermarket shelves. This makes sense as originally, people would have consumed raw honey, which comes straight from the honeycomb, and would not have processed it.
Unlike regular honey, which is pasteurized and filtered, raw honey is unprocessed and retains all its natural enzymes, vitamins, and antioxidants. The beekeeper will usually just filter the honey to remove small bits of debris, including pollen, beeswax, and parts of dead bees. This preservation of nutrients is one reason why raw honey is so beneficial to health.
However, most of the honey available commercially today is processed – usually through pasteurization, which involves intense heating resulting in reduced nutritional value. Another processing step is filtration, which removes air bubbles to make the honey more aesthetically pleasing. An additional round of filtration – ultrafiltration – may be added to make the honey more transparent. Each of these additional filtration steps often removes enzymes and pollen that are key to the health benefits of honey. Moreover, processed honey may contain added sugars.
So whenever you can, always look for and choose to consume raw honey so that you can enjoy all its benefits.
A Modern Health Staple: Benefits
Today, raw honey has maintained its status as a valuable health staple and is supported by modern science. The health benefits of raw honey are extensive and well-documented. In fact, taking just one spoonful a day can have numerous benefits for your health. The amazing properties of raw honey include:
・Source of antioxidants
Raw honey is rich in antioxidants such as phenolic compounds. These protect against cell damage caused by free radicals and help protect the body from oxidative stress. It also potentially reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
・Kills harmful bacteria and fungi
Raw honey is a natural antibacterial and antifungal agent. The antimicrobial effect of honey is well-established. It contains hydrogen peroxide, glucose oxidase, bee defensin-1, and has a low pH level – all of which contribute to its ability to kill harmful bacteria and fungi. Also, because of its unique chemical composition, it does not help yeast or bacteria to grow.
・Nutrition
Raw honey provides vitamins like niacin and riboflavin, minerals such as calcium and potassium, and amino acids. Furthermore, bee pollen and propolis found in raw honey add extra benefits.
・Aids digestion
Raw honey can aid in digestion and soothe gastrointestinal issues. It acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. This natural sweetener is rich in enzymes that can help improve digestive processes and prevent various digestive disorders. It can also help soothe an upset stomach and promote overall gut health.
・Soothes sore throats and coughs
Raw honey is a well-known remedy for soothing sore throats and reducing cough symptoms. Its thick consistency and antimicrobial properties help coat the throat and fight infection.
Uses in Herbal Medicine
In herbal medicine, raw honey is often used as a base for various remedies. It enhances the efficacy of herbs and spices, and its natural sweetness makes herbal concoctions more palatable. Here are some common uses:
・Herbal syrups
Raw honey is a key ingredient in many herbal syrups used to treat colds, flu, and respiratory issues. Combining honey with herbs like elderberry, ginger, and thyme can create potent remedies.
・Infused honey
Infusing raw honey with herbs such as garlic, echinacea, and lavender can increase its medicinal properties. These infusions can be used for immune support, relaxation, and as natural antibiotics – they are especially helpful for winter colds.
Tips to Avoid Fake Honey
There are many options on the market for honey. But unfortunately, not all honey is created equal. Adulterated honey, which may be diluted with sugar syrup or subjected to high temperatures, lacks the health benefits of pure raw honey. As mentioned on the evidence-based Well+Good online site, “the healthiest honey doesn’t come in a bear-shaped bottle”.
Here are some pointers on what to look out for to ensure that you are buying genuine raw honey:
・Reputable source
Purchase your honey from local farmers’ markets or trusted, specialized health stores. These are more likely to offer authentic products. Some brands provide detailed information about the source of their honey – a good sign of authenticity.
・Labels
Check the labels. Look for labels that specify “raw” or “unfiltered” honey. Organic certifications are also an indicator of quality. Pure raw honey should have only one ingredient: honey. Avoid products with added sugars or perservatives.
・Crystallization
Raw honey tends to crystallize over time. If your honey never crystallizes, it might be processed. However, not all honey crystallizes at the same rate as this depends on the floral source.
・Water test
Place a spoonful of honey in a glass of water. Pure raw honey will settle at the bottom, while adulterated honey may dissolve quickly.
・Price
While price does not always indicate quality, extremely cheap honey can be a red flag for an adulterated version. Genuine, high-quality honey is labor-intensive to produce – hence, it comes at a cost. Be wary of a product that seems too good to be true in terms of pricing.
Access the Power of Liquid Gold
Raw honey is a testament to the enduring power of Mother Nature’s remedies, cherished from ancient civilizations to modern times. Its myriad health benefits, from antioxidant and antibacterial properties to its role in digestive health, make raw honey a valuable addition to any diet. In addition, this liquid gold is also a versatile base for numerous traditional remedies, enhancing the efficacy of medicinal herbs.
However, to fully reap the benefits of raw honey, it is crucial to ensure its authenticity. Pay attention to what you purchase so that you can avoid fake honey and enjoy the genuine, health-promoting properties of this golden elixir which will support your modern wellness journey today.
