Honey is nature's sweetener, but it also offers a variety of health benefits, states U.S. News.com. Honey can be processed or raw, sold in grocery stores around the globe or in jars from bee keepers, and it offers not only tasty treats but can restore energy, help heal wounds and be used to treat difficult or stubborn bacterial infections. Used by different cultures around the world not only in cooking but for its medicinal value, bee honey continues to be a popular item in natural health food and grocery stores.
Wound Care
Honey has long been used as a wound salve, according to U.S. News. It's believed that honey contains a variety of antibacterial properties and its use as an antibiotic and treatment for venous ulcers and wound dressings. Use of honey salves and dressings has been used to treat MRSA, a type of staph infection common in hospitals, relates Steven Kavros, wound specialist from the Mayo Clinic, as related in the U.S. News article called "The Healing Power of Honey."
Energy Booster
Honey contains a rich wealth of carbohydrates, perfect for a quick boost of energy for exercisers or those hiking or engaged in other physically active sports or events. Containing a variety of natural fruit sugars and glucose, honey is absorbed slowly by the body, offering longer energy benefits, that may help diminish muscle fatigue and give our muscles that extra boost when we're tired, states Benefits of Honey.
Antioxidant Benefits
Honey is known to be rich source of antioxidants, states the National Honey Board Organization Food Technology Program. Antioxidants help prevent cellular breakdown caused by free radicals that cause cellular damage. Honey is believed to help gobble up those free radicals and contains the benefits of a variety of vitamins, including Vitamin C, says Dr. May Berenbaum of the University of Illinois. Antioxidants are often used in skin care products to help reduce signs of aging and to maintain healthy and supple skin.
Vital Nutrients
Honey contains a variety of vitamins and minerals as well as amino acids, states Food Reference.com. Such nutrients, in addition to niacin, riboflavin, copper, iron and potassium, which help muscles develop and grow and keeps the nervous system working at optimal levels, says Kids Health. Vitamins and minerals and other trace elements such as zinc help boost the immune system. Others are necessary and vital for normal muscle and organ function in many parts of the body.
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