Overview

Honey has been treasured for thousands of years, both as food and medicine. This golden liquid is much more than a sweetener – it’s a complex substance with remarkable healing properties that have been recognized across cultures and confirmed by modern research.

Types of Honey

Raw Honey

• Unfiltered and unpasteurized
• Contains beneficial enzymes and pollen
• Crystallizes naturally over time
• Most therapeutic properties intact

Manuka Honey

• From New Zealand tea tree (Leptospermum scoparium)
• Unique antibacterial compound (methylglyoxal/MGO)
• Graded by MGO content (100+ to 800+)
• Premium therapeutic honey

Local Honey

• Produced in your geographic area
• May contain local pollens
• Potentially helpful for seasonal allergies
• Supports local beekeepers

Therapeutic Properties

Antimicrobial Action

Honey’s infection-fighting properties come from:

• Low water content: Creates hostile environment for bacteria
• Acidic pH: Inhibits bacterial growth
• Hydrogen peroxide: Released slowly as natural antiseptic
• Unique compounds: Especially in Manuka honey

Wound Healing

Research shows honey can:

• Speed healing of minor cuts and burns
• Reduce inflammation and pain
• Minimize scarring
• Fight infection naturally

Cough and Throat Relief

Honey soothes irritation by:

• Coating throat tissues
• Reducing inflammation
• Providing temporary pain relief
• Triggering saliva production

How to Use Honey

For Sore Throat

• Take 1-2 teaspoons directly
• Mix with warm (not hot) water or tea
• Combine with ginger and lemon
• Use throughout the day as needed

For Cough

• Give 1/2 to 1 teaspoon before bedtime
• Mix with warm milk
• Combine with thyme or ginger
• Never give to children under 12 months

For Minor Wounds

• Clean wound gently
• Apply thin layer of honey
• Cover with sterile bandage
• Change daily and monitor healing

For Energy

• Natural alternative to refined sugar
• Provides quick energy for exercise
• Mix with nuts for sustained energy
• Add to smoothies and oatmeal

Choosing Quality Honey

Look For

• Raw and unfiltered labels
• Local producers when possible
• Dark containers (protects from light)
• Clear ingredient list (just honey)

Avoid

• “Honey blends” with added syrups
• Ultra-processed clear honey
• Suspiciously cheap options
• Honey stored in warm places

Safety and Storage

Safe Use

• Generally safe for most people over 12 months
• Use in moderation due to natural sugars
• May affect blood glucose levels
• Quality matters for therapeutic use

Proper Storage

• Store at room temperature
• Keep in dry place away from sunlight
• Crystallization is natural and reversible
• Properly stored honey never spoils

Not Recommended For

• Infants under 12 months (botulism risk)
• People with severe bee allergies
• Those requiring strict blood sugar control (without medical guidance)