Health Benefits of Honey

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Honey is a natural sweetener that has been known for 2,000 years. Ancient civilizations had been aware of its health benefits and used honey for its medical properties. A series of studies confirm many of the health benefits that ancient people believe honey possesses. One of them is the honey’s ability to treat wounds. Namely, scientific studies have found a specific protein, defensin-1, that is extremely effective against bacteria. Honey has also shown highly beneficial in treating allergies, particularly pollen allergies. Experts suggest consuming one teaspoon of honey at least a month before pollen season. They also recommend using honey from local beekeepers, because only local honey contains pollen from plants that causes allergy. Interestingly, honey has shown effective in enhancing sleep quality. Scientists have revealed that honey accelerates serotonin production in the body, thus raising our level of happiness and relaxation. This magic food has found its use in cosmetics. People who suffer from seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff, and itchy scalp feel great relief when using honey emulsion. Dermatologists suggest using honey with 10 percent of warm water to make the emulsion. It should be applied at least three hours before washing hair. To find out more about the health benefits of honey, the article “10 Health Benefits of Honey” gives us the following list.

1. Prevent cancer and heart disease

2. Reduce ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders

3. Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-fungal

4. Increase athletic performance

5. Reduce cough and throat irritation

6. Balance the 5 elements

7. Blood sugar regulation

8. Heal wounds and burns

9. Probiotic

However, these health benefits are present in raw honey only. Namely, raw honey is full of pollen, wax, and yeast. Its pasteurized form is devoid of these active ingredients and does not show powerful at all. However, when consuming honey, we should limit its quantity to two tablespoons a day. For its high content of fructose, people who are insulin resistant or have some other ailment such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, or diabetes, should consult their doctor. People who are lucky to enjoy the honey’s health benefits can experience its positive influence in treating cold, improving immunity, and probiotic effects.