Benefits of Raw Organic Honey

Benefits of Raw Organic Honey
Photo Credit Knife with honey image by shaR1k from Fotolia.com

The term raw honey refers to unprocessed honey removed from the hive with the comb still intact. Raw honey is different from most honey bought on the shelf, which has often been processed, heated and bottled with additives. The processing of raw honey uses no heat, and relies on filtration which removes large particles while retaining the nutrients and beneficial characteristics of the honey. Organic honey comes from the hives of bees that are not exposed to the flowers of plants cultivated with pesticides or other chemicals.

Soothing a Sore Throat

Nothing is worse than suffering with a sore throat, which is often accompanied by cough. Research performed by the PennState Department of Medicine showed that taking honey might provide the parents of small children a more effective solution to purchasing an over-the-counter brand of cough medicine. A small dose of honey before bed will control the cough, ease the pain of the sore throat and help the child sleep better through the night.

Never administer honey to a child below the age of 12 months due to the presence of Clostridium botulinum, a bacteria that is harmless in adults, but can cause a toxic form of botulism in infants.

Useful in Beauty Products and Skin Conditions

For over 3000 years, beauty treatments have included honey as an ingredient. Cleopatra took baths in milk and honey to keep her youthful appearance. Honey is a natural humectant, and draws moisture to the skin. The antimicrobial properties of honey are additionally beneficial for scrapes and cuts. Using honey in beauty products -- such as shampoo, moisturizer and soaps -- will protect your skin from dryness and soothe existing skin afflictions. Using honey in your hair after you shampoo will help to make it softer. Due to its antimicrobial effects, honey makes an effective treatment for skin conditions such as eczema.

Quick Energy for Performance

Raw honey makes an excellent choice for energizing your body to perform at its peak -- use honey for all phases of your training regime. There are 17 g of carbohydrate in each tablespoon that will fuel your body throughout your workout or game. The carbohydrates in honey are slower burning than sugar, ensuring endurance.

References

Article reviewed by Veronique Von Tufts Last updated on: Sep 29, 2010

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments