9 Health Benefits of Honey: Nature’s Sweet Superfood

Honey has been revered for its numerous health benefits for thousands of years. This golden elixir, produced by bees, is not just a natural sweetener but also a powerhouse of nutrients and therapeutic properties.

Here are nine evidence-based health benefits of honey that make it a true superfood.

#1: Rich in antioxidants

Honey is packed with powerful antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. These compounds help combat oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic diseases and ageing. Notably, honey is the only known food source of pinocembrin, an antioxidant associated with improved brain function and potential treatment for various cardiovascular conditions.

#2: Natural energy booster

Unlike refined sugar, honey provides a steady release of energy without causing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels.

Its natural sugars are easily absorbed by the body, making it an excellent pre or post-workout snack.

#3: Wound healing properties

Honey’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective natural remedy for wound healing. Research has shown that medical-grade honey can accelerate healing in burns and other types of wounds. Some hospitals now use honey-infused bandages for their patients.

Scientists first identified honey’s antibacterial properties in 1892 by Van Ketel, and numerous subsequent studies have since confirmed its effectiveness against bacteria.

More recently, two critical ingredients, hydrogen peroxide and methylglyoxal, have been shown to impart natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Manuka honey, in particular, has been proven to have enhanced antibacterial qualities due to high concentrations of methylglyoxal. It’s been demonstrated to kill potentially dangerous bacteria and viruses in a laboratory setting and has been used to combat Staphylococcus infections that have become resistant to antibiotics.

Find out more about the healing properties of manuka honey.

#4: Soothes sore throats and coughs

A spoonful of honey can be as effective as some over-the-counter cough medicines. Its thick consistency coats and soothes the throat, while its antimicrobial properties help fight infections. As a result, it then helps children (and parents!) get more sleep.

A study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine found that honey was more effective than dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant sold under the trade name Robitussin, among others) in reducing nighttime coughing in children.

Researchers stated, “Compared with children who received dextromethorphan or no treatment, children who received honey showed the greatest improvement in parent-reported cough frequency, cough severity, and quality of sleep for both the parent and the child.”

#5: Supports digestive health

Honey has been shown to have prebiotic properties, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

It may also help alleviate symptoms of digestive issues such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers.

#6: Natural sleep aid

Consuming honey before bedtime may promote restful sleep.

It slightly raises insulin levels and allows tryptophan, an amino acid associated with sleep quality, to enter the brain more easily.

#7: Skincare benefits

Honey’s moisturising and antibacterial properties make it an excellent skincare ingredient.

It can help soothe and hydrate dry skin, reduce acne, and even slow down the signs of ageing.

Ancient beauty icons like Cleopatra were known to use honey in their skincare routines.

#8: Potential allergy relief

While more research is needed, some studies suggest that consuming local, raw honey may help alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms.

The theory is that honey contains small amounts of pollen, which may help desensitise the immune system over time.

#9: An awesome alternative to refined sugar

Replacing refined sugar with honey in your diet may improve weight management and blood sugar control.

A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that honey consumption was associated with lower weight gain and reduced blood sugar levels compared to sugar.

A final word about the health benefits of honey…

It’s important to note that the health benefits of honey are most pronounced in raw, unprocessed varieties.

Commercial processing can destroy valuable enzymes, vitamins, and phytonutrients. For optimal health benefits, source your honey directly from local beekeepers or reputable suppliers of raw honey.

While honey offers numerous health benefits, it should still be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Individuals with diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before incorporating honey into their diet.

Honey is so much more than just a natural sweetener. Its diverse array of health benefits, from wound healing to antioxidant protection, makes it a valuable addition to your pantry.

So, why not swap out your regular sugar for a spoonful of nature’s golden goodness?

See the vast range of local, pure, antibiotic-free honey for sale at Ben’s Bees.