Honey and Health Benefits

Honey is produced by bees by using the nectar of flowers. Due to its antimicrobial, antiseptic and antibiotic properties, it has been the most common ingredient in a number of home remedies, through the ages. However, the medicinal abilities of honey are directly linked with its degree of purity.

Health Benefits of Honey and Cinnamon

Honey has been used as a natural sweetener for ages, commonly used to sweeten beverages like tea and coffee and is used abundantly in baking. It is rich in minerals and vitamins and has more nutritional benefits than sugar. It is absorbed immediately by the body cells and mobilizes the fats to produce energy. Thus, the chances of gaining weight are minimized as it reduces the accumulation of fats in the fat cells. Studies show that people with diabetes or high cholesterol have not shown an increase in blood sugar or cholesterol levels after consuming honey, instead of sugar. A tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of cinnamon powder, mixed in a glass of warm water, is an excellent remedy for losing unwanted weight. Drinking this concoction every morning, on an empty stomach, is believed to produce better results. Honey aids the digestion process thus ensuring that the nutrients are better absorbed by the body. It is known to boost the immune system, enabling it to fight off illness efficiently. The antioxidants present in honey are helpful in treating colitis by reducing the damage done to the colon. Pure honey is also known to help in the regeneration and cleansing of the liver. A tablespoon of honey mixed with a few drops of lemon juice, swallowed slowly, helps to relieve discomfort caused by sore throats, laryngitis, coughs and colds. The antiseptic and antibiotic properties of honey quicken the healing of these conditions by killing the germs that cause the infection.

Can We Use Honey as an Antiseptic?

Honey is also used in healing open wounds, reduces inflammation and prevents scarring due to its antiseptic qualities. The antioxidant and antimicrobial qualities of honey are known to rejuvenate damaged skin leaving it radiant and supple. To nourish your skin, apply a layer of honey on your face. Fifteen minutes later, with a few granules of sugar, gently rub your skin with circular movements of your fingertips and then wash your face with warm water. This helps in exfoliating dead skin cells, deep cleanses pores and improves the overall texture of the skin. Massaging the scalp with equal parts of honey and olive oil makes hair silky and healthy.