Raw honey differs significantly from the honey you find in most grocery stores. Sometimes packaged in bear-shaped squeeze jars, processed honey contains more sugar to sweeten the mixture, and it often lacks some of the honey's best natural benefits. Raw honey, on the other hand, is extracted directly from the honeycomb and jarred or canned for human consumption. No treatment is done to the honey, which helps preserve its nutritional value. Although it is more expensive, raw honey may be more beneficial to your body.
Cough Treatment
According to World's Healthiest Foods, a study conducted by the Penn State College of Medicine found that just one dose of buckwheat honey given to children with extended respiratory system infections and/or prolonged nighttime coughing improved the children's ability to sleep in comparison with a single dose of a pharmaceutical medication. This is due to the honey's action against contaminants and infections -- in addition to coating the throat, the honey attacks unwanted organisms that may be causing or exacerbating the coughing.
Cleansing Agent
Raw honey is antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral agent, according to World's Healthiest Foods. This means it can combat, weaken, and sometimes destroy various types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Several nutrients found in honey also have been shown to possess anti-tumor and anti-cancer properties. However, these purported nutritional benefits are only present in raw, uncooked honey -- when heated, such as when placed in hot tea, the honey loses much of these benefits.
Improved Carbohydrate Digestion
According to NaturalNews.com, raw honey is high in amylase -- an enzyme that helps the body properly digest carbohydrates, such as those found in grain products. However, amylase turns to starch when heated, so this benefit is best enjoyed when the honey is at room temperature.
Flavonoids Content
Raw honey is high in flavonoids -- nutritional supplements that serve as powerful antioxidants. This can help the body combat toxins present within, helping stave off illnesses and disease, according to NaturalNews.com.
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