In Praise of Honey

Honey has been used since the dawn of human history as a remedy for many different ailments.  The ancient Egyptians used it as an embalming fluid and to treat wounds.  How many of these claims hold water?  To find out, I did a little research starting with WebMD, one of the most skeptical sites on the internet. 

WebMD endorsed two uses for honey- wound care and cough suppressant.  Looks like those ancient Egyptians were on to something.  Honey even has the blessing of the FDA.  Look for something called Medihoney which works very well to disinfect wounds and stimulate healing. 

Honey also works as a cough suppressant.  Two studies were done on children in which honey beat dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) and diphenhydramine (an antihistamine).  These studies only confirm what most of us have known for a very long time.  Honey soothes a cough.

WebMD was more skeptical of some honey’s other reputed uses- allergies, diabetes- and silent on others.  As I said this is one of the most skeptical sites on the web when it comes to the benefits of so called natural remedies.  I don’t take it- or any other site- as the gospel truth, but it is a good place to start.

Let’s go to a less skeptical site, Mother Nature Network (www.mnn.com).  They claim ten health benefits of honey.  In addition to the two previously mentioned, they also claim:

·       Boosts memory
·       Provides nutrients
·       Helps low white blood cell count due to chemotherapy
·       Relieves seasonal allergies
·       Kills antibiotic resistant bacteria
·       May help metabolize alcohol
·       Makes a great workout fuel
·       Helps with scalp problems

There are other benefits.  If one delves deeper into the world wide web, there is evidence that honey helps regulate blood sugar.  Honey’s antibacterial and healing properties make it a great addition to your face cream.  It has been used for millennia in ayurvedic medicine (a system of medicine which evolved in ancient India, somewhat similar to Chinese herbal medicine).  Here is a link for a better description:  http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART00454/Ayurvedic-Medicine.html

There is evidence that raw honey can reduce cholesterol, stimulate liver function, and lower blood pressure.  The antioxidants in honey reduce the risk of cancer.  A tablespoon of honey in the morning can curb your appetite.  Honey after a big meal can aid digestion.  Honey before bed can help you sleep and keep your liver burning fat.

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/animal-product/benefits-of-honey-in-weight-loss.html

Look for raw, local honey for maximum benefit.  And live healthy.