The Health Benefits of Raw Honey

You may have heard that raw honey is a natural cure-all, and that's because it has some amazing health benefits.

Raw honey is made by honey bees from the nectar of flowers. It's unheated and unprocessed, which means the beneficial enzymes, minerals, and other nutrients are still intact. Raw honey is a natural sweetener and contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients.

In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of raw honey and how to use it for optimum benefit.

What Is Raw Honey?

You might be wondering, what exactly is raw honey? Raw honey is honey that hasn't been heat-treated or processed in any way, which means it retains all of its natural vitamins, enzymes, phytonutrients, and antioxidants.

Raw honey also contains antibacterial and antifungal properties, which makes it a great natural remedy for a sore throat or an upset stomach. Not to mention, it's a great all-natural sweetener for your morning cup of tea or yogurt.

So why is raw honey so much better for you than processed honey? Well, the processing of honey often removes many of the beneficial properties that make raw honey so special. So next time you're at the store, make sure to pick up a jar of raw honey!

Raw Honey Vs Regular Honey

Honey is a sweet and natural product that has been used for centuries as a natural sweetener and medicine. However, not all honey is created equal.

Raw honey is pure and unprocessed, while regular honey has undergone pasteurization, a heating process that kills harmful bacteria, but also destroys many of the beneficial nutrients and enzymes found in raw honey. Raw honey contains pollen, propolis, and royal jelly, which are all rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Additionally, raw honey has been found to have antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a popular choice for treating minor cuts and burns.

While both types of honey can be used for cooking, baking, and as a sweetener, it is recommended to use raw honey for its superior taste and health benefits.

The Benefits of Raw Honey

You might be wondering what the big deal is about raw honey. Isn't all honey pretty much the same?

Well, raw honey is a bit of a different story. Raw honey is honey that hasn't been heated, pasteurized, or processed in any way. This means that it retains all of its natural enzymes, vitamins, and minerals which give raw honey a range of health benefits.

Here’s a list of health benefits associated with the consumption of raw honey:

1. Rich in antioxidants: Raw honey contains a range of antioxidants, which help to protect the body against damage from free radicals.

2. Anti-inflammatory properties: Raw honey contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation in the body.

3. Antibacterial and antifungal properties: Raw honey contains enzymes that produce hydrogen peroxide, which can help to kill harmful bacteria and fungi.

4. Soothes coughs and sore throats: Raw honey can help to soothe coughs and sore throats due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

5. Boosts immune system: Raw honey contains vitamins, minerals, and enzymes that can help to support the immune system.

6. Promotes healing: Raw honey can help to promote the healing of minor cuts and burns due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

7. Improve digestion: Raw honey contains enzymes that can help to improve digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

8. May help with allergies: Some people believe that consuming raw honey can help to reduce allergy symptoms due to its small amounts of pollen and other allergens.

So if you're looking for a natural way to boost your health, raw honey is a great option!

However, it should be noted that raw honey is not recommended for infants under the age of one due to the risk of botulism.

How to Consume Raw Honey

When it comes to consuming raw honey, you have a few options. The first is to simply eat it with a spoonful. This is a great way to get a quick dose of energy before a workout or to calm your nerves before bedtime.

Another option is to add it to your favorite beverage. I like to add a teaspoon of raw honey to my morning cup of tea or coffee. Not only does it add a touch of sweetness, but the health benefits are an added bonus.

Finally, you can also use raw honey in recipes. I like to add it to homemade salad dressings or marinades for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. Raw honey is also a great natural sweetener for baking.

It is highly recommended to consume it without heating it, like when used in cooking, as the heat can destroy some of the nutrients.

How to Store Raw Honey

You should store your raw honey in a dark, cool place. You don't want to store it in direct sunlight or in a warm area, as this will cause it to lose some of its nutritional value and medicinal properties.

The best way to store raw honey is in an airtight container. You can use a Mason jar, a plastic container, or any other type of container that you have on hand. Just make sure that it's clean and dry before you add the honey.

Once you've added the honey to the container, you can put the lid on and then store it in a dark cupboard or pantry. Raw honey can last for years when stored properly, so you don't have to worry about it going bad any time soon.

Raw Honey Recipes

You can also use raw honey in a number of recipes, both sweet and savory. Swap it in for sugar in your favorite baking recipes, or use it as a natural sweetener in smoothies or yogurt. You can even add it to savory dishes like roasted vegetables or homemade salad dressing.

Not sure where to start? Check out some of our favorite raw honey recipes:

Raw Honey & Banana Breakfast Bowl

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons raw honey
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup granola
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• Fresh berries for topping

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mash the ripe banana with a fork until it's smooth.
2. Add the Greek yogurt, raw honey, and cinnamon to the bowl and mix until everything is well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the granola and sliced almonds.
4. Spoon the yogurt mixture into a bowl, then top with the granola mixture and fresh berries.
5. Drizzle additional raw honey on top of the bowl for extra sweetness, if desired.
6. Serve and enjoy!

This Raw Honey & Banana Breakfast Bowl is a perfect way to start your day. It's packed with protein from the Greek yogurt and healthy fats from the almonds, while the raw honey adds a touch of natural sweetness. The banana adds natural sweetness and creamy texture, making this breakfast bowl a satisfying and healthy morning meal.

Raw Honey, Lemon & Ginger Detox Drink

Ingredients:

• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• 1-inch fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 2 cups water
• Ice cubes
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon juice, raw honey, and grated ginger until everything is well combined.
2. Heat the water in a small pot on the stove until it comes to a boil, then remove from the heat.
3. Add the lemon-ginger mixture to the hot water and stir well.
4. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then pour it through a fine mesh strainer to remove any ginger fibers.
5. Add raw honey to the mixture.
6. Fill a glass with ice cubes, then pour the lemon-honey-ginger mixture over the ice.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
8. Serve and enjoy!

This Raw Honey, Lemon & Ginger Detox Drink is a refreshing way to detoxify your body and boost your immune system. The lemon juice is high in vitamin C and antioxidants, while the ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. The raw honey adds natural sweetness and has antibacterial and antifungal properties.

This drink is perfect for a morning pick-me-up or as a healthy alternative to sugary drinks throughout the day.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Raw Honey & Balsamic Vinegar

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons raw honey
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, add the halved Brussels sprouts, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
3. Transfer the Brussels sprouts to a baking sheet and spread them out in a single layer.
4. Roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and slightly browned.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the raw honey and balsamic vinegar until they are well combined.
6. Drizzle the honey-balsamic mixture over the roasted Brussels sprouts and sprinkle with sliced almonds.
7. Serve and enjoy!

This Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Raw Honey & Balsamic Vinegar recipe is a perfect side dish for any meal. The raw honey and balsamic vinegar glaze adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to the nutty Brussels sprouts. The sliced almonds add a satisfying crunch and healthy fats.

This dish is easy to make and can be enjoyed by both vegans and non-vegans alike.

Kale Salad with Raw Honey Dijon Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch kale, washed and chopped
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Raw Honey Dijon Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons raw honey
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, add the chopped kale and massage it with your hands for a few minutes to soften the leaves.
2. Add the sliced avocado, raw pumpkin seeds, and crumbled feta cheese to the bowl and mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the raw honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper until the dressing is well combined.
4. Drizzle the Raw Honey Dijon Dressing over the kale salad and mix well.
5. Serve and enjoy!

This Kale Salad with Raw Honey Dijon Dressing is a perfect way to get your daily dose of greens.

The raw honey adds a touch of natural sweetness to the tangy Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar dressing. The avocado adds healthy fats and creaminess, while the pumpkin seeds add a satisfying crunch. The crumbled feta cheese adds a salty kick that pairs perfectly with the sweet and tangy dressing.

This salad is perfect as a light lunch or as a side dish for dinner.

FAQs About Raw Honey

You might be wondering, "isn't all honey raw?" Well, no. While most honey starts out as raw honey, the processing that some commercial brands put it through can remove many of the beneficial compounds found in raw honey.

Raw honey is made by bees from the nectar of flowers and has not been heated, pasteurized, or filtered. This means that it retains all of the beneficial enzymes, antioxidants, and other compounds that are lost during processing.

So, make sure you're buying raw honey if you want to get all the health benefits. And when in doubt, just ask the vendor—most honest producers will be happy to tell you whether their honey is raw or not.

Conclusion

There are plenty of health benefits of raw honey to consider, and it’s definitely a natural product worth incorporating into your life. Whether you drink it, eat it, or use it as a topical treatment, raw honey can do wonders for your health. Give it a try and see for yourself!

Further Reading:

How to Use Honey to Improve Your Health

How to Use Stevia for More than Just Sweetening Your Coffee

Natural Skin Care With Honey: Perfectly Simple and Naturally Effective