Some Health Benefits Worth Knowing
The possible health benefits of consuming honey have been documented in early Greek, Roman, Vedic and Islamic texts, and the healing qualities of honey were referred to by philosophers and scientists all the way back to ancient times, including by Aristotle (384–322 BC). Over four thousand years ago, honey was used as a traditional ayurvedic medicine, where it was thought to be effective at treating material imbalances in the body. Modern science is finding that many of the historical claims that honey can be used in medicine may indeed be true. Honey has anti-viral, anti-microbial and anti-parasitic effects. Its capacity to inhibit the growth of microorganisms and fungi is well documented.
Heals wounds and burns
There have been some cases in which people have reported positive effects of honey in treating wounds. A review published in The Cochrane Library indicated that honey may be able to help heal burns. The lead author of the study said that “topical honey is cheaper than other interventions, notably oral antibiotics, which are often used and may have other deleterious side effects.” In numerous studies, honey has been found effective in treating wounds. In one study, 59 patients suffering from wounds and leg ulcers – of which 80 per cent had failed to heal with conventional treatment – were treated with unprocessed honey. All but one of the cases showed remarkable improvement following topical application of honey.
Soothes coughs
A study published in Pediatrics included 270 children aged one to five with night-time cough due to simple colds. The children who received two teaspoons of honey 30 minutes before bed coughed less frequently and less severely, and were less likely to lose sleep due to the cough when compared to those who didn’t get honey.
May relieve seasonal allergies
There is some research to suggest that honey may be useful in minimizing seasonal allergies. As honey has anti-inflammatory effects and is known to soothe coughs, it may not seem like much of a stretch. Some experts say that honey can contain traces of flower pollen, and exposure to small amounts of allergens works as good treatment to combat reactions. Overall, while there are numerous health benefits that can be gained from honey, the extent of such benefits greatly depends on its quality. Not all honey is created equally and hence the various types do not necessarily provide the same benefits.