Contributed by Dori Cranmore, All About Herbs
One of the earliest evidence of honey harvesting is on a rock painting in Valencia, Spain dating back 8,000 years. Archeologists discovered honeycomb in Egypt buried with pharaohs in their tombs. The honey was still edible! Throughout history, honey has been used to heal wounds after battles and is mentioned several times in the Bible. In 1851, Rev. Langstroth from Pennsylvania designed the moveable frame to harvest bees’ honey.
What is raw honey? It’s a pure, unfiltered and unpasteurized sweetener made by bees from the nectar of flowers. Most of the honey consumed today is processed honey that’s been heated and filtered since it was gathered from the hive. Unlike processed honey, raw honey does not get robbed of its incredible nutritional value and health powers. Using local, raw honey can help minimize pollen allergies. The key is finding local honey within 10 miles of you and using it daily.
Raw honey is 80% natural sugar, 18% water and 2% vitamins, pollen and proteins. This mix is tested to be the best form of energy for mornings and pre and post workouts.
Using raw honey to replace sugar has been studied for weight loss as it can suppress appetite, lower blood sugar (especially when used with cinnamon) and lower triglycerides.
Many studies over the years find direct links to the anti-bacterial effects along with immune boosting. Honey contains polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants that also have been shown to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Some uses for raw honey and cinnamon:
• Indigestion: Cinnamon powder sprinkled on two tablespoons of raw honey taken before food helps relieve acidity and improves food digestion.
• Arthritis: Taking one cup of hot water with two tablespoons of honey and one teaspoon of cinnamon powder on a daily basis can help reduce pain and improve mobility.
• Colds: Those suffering from common or severe colds can take one tablespoon of honey with ¼ teaspoon of cinnamon powder for three days. This can stop most coughs and help clear the sinuses.
• Pimples & Skin Issues: Mix three tablespoons of raw honey with one teaspoon of cinnamon powder to make a paste. Apply the paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash off in the morning. When done daily for two weeks, it can remove the pimples from the root. Applying this paste to eczema, ringworm and other skin infections can help eliminate.
• Raspy or Sore Throat: For a tickle or raspy throat, take one tablespoon of raw honey every three hours until relieved.
Be sure to get quality honey (from bees in your local area is best) and cinnamon that has not been irradiated. Both are available at All About Herbs, Inc. in Wasilla.
