Honey has been valued for its medicinal properties since ancient times, playing a crucial role in the healing practices of many civilizations. Valued for its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, honey was widely used for treating wounds and infections. It was also used for a variety of ailments including cough, diarrhea, headaches, insomnia, and as a mood lifter.
Recent research has confirmed many of honey’s medicinal uses. When the bees collect pollen and nectar from area plants and flowers, the nectar is transformed back at the hive into a mixture called honey. This mixture if filled with immune strengthening phytonutrients that just so happen to be helpful in protecting the human body. In fact, honey has been reported to inhibit around 60 species of bacteria, fungi, and viruses that we are exposed to daily. In addition, honey is now being used to treat various gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, inflammatory, and neoplastic (tumor growth) conditions.
Raw honey comes directly from the honeycomb, which provides several benefits since its rich nutrients have not been processed out. Interestingly, the US Army tested honeycomb as a desensitizing and antiallergenic substance for hay fever. Their results showed improvement in allergy symptoms. For the best effect, it is important to get honey and honeycomb from a regional beekeeper to help build immunity from the local pollen causing the allergic reaction.
A note of caution: people who are allergic to bee stings should consult a doctor before eating honey. Also, never give honey to children younger than 12 months old due to the risk of Clostridium botulinum spores. The bacteria can multiply in an infant’s immature digestive system and cause severe illness. However, honey is generally safe for children over I year and adults if taken by mouth or applied to the skin (for healing mild skin injuries like burns, wounds, and acne).
Here is a refreshing drink that includes honey and other healing herbs.
Mint iced tea with honey
4 cups water
4 black tea bags (or green if preferred)
½ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed
¼-½ cup honey (adjust to taste)
2 cups cold water or ice cubes
Lemon slices (optional)
- Boil 4 cups water. Remove from heat.
- Add 4 black tea bags and ½ cup mint. Steep 5-7 minutes.
- Remove tea bags and mint. Stir in honey. Cool to room temp.
- Add 2 cups cold water or ice.
- Serve over ice with mint or lemon.
