Facts About Raw Unprocessed Honey

Honey is a natural sweetener made from the concentrated nectar of flowers. Honey bees gather nectar, which mixes with special enzymes in saliva and makes honey. The honey bees return to their hives to deposit and store the honey for their food. Honey is considered a super food because it is a powerful antioxidant packed with rich nutrients. It's a natural antiseptic, an antibacterial and a healing salve for burns and wounds, but not all honeys are created equal.

Raw Uprocessed Honey

Raw unprocessed honey is 100 percent pure, natural, unpasteurized and unadulterated. Raw unprocessed honey is extracted from the beehive in its natural state and bottled. It is not strained, filtered or heated. Unlike processed honey, raw unprocessed honey retains all the enzymes, pollen, royal jelly, propolis, rich vitamins, minerals and carbohydrate content.

Nutritional Content

Raw unprocessed honey contains B complex vitamins, which include riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, thiamine, pyridoxine, biotin and B12. It also contains vitamins A, C, D, E and K, as well as traces of minerals like iron, calcium, copper, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. It also contains enzymes and amino acids.

Health Benefits

Raw unprocessed honey provides quick energy and is easily absorbed into the body. Its enzyme content enhances digestion, soothes the intestinal tract and acts as a laxative to help with elimination. Raw unprocessed honey is good for colds, coughs and sore throat and it calms the nerves. When taken before bedtime, it helps promote sound sleep.

Allergic Reaction

Some individuals might develop an allergic reaction to honey. The symptoms might range from a mild rash or hives with itching to swelling of your face, tongue and throat to shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. An allergic reaction is a serious medical emergency. Seek immediate medical care and treatment if any of these symptoms occur.

What About Contaminants?

During the process of gathering pollen and nectar from the flowers, the honey bees might come in contact with contaminants such as antibiotics, pesticides and other chemicals. According to World Class Emprise, the trace amount of contaminants that might be found in raw unprocessed honey is too low to be harmful to humans.