Stir it in your tea or drizzle it on your yogurt – you're probably already aware that there are a lot of uses for honey, but did you know that along with being deliciously sweet, it's got medicinal properties, too? From quelling allergies to treating pressure sores, this substance seemingly does it all. And though it's been used since the times of ancient Egypt as a wound dressing and embalming fluid, only recently have researchers begun to give it the praise it deserves. Next time you're affected by one of these ailments, reach for the bear-shaped bottle (or a concoction that contains it).
Chronic Wounds
The FDA approved Medihoney, a product made from Manuka honey, for use in wound and ulcer care in 2007. When using honey to treat a wound, it's important to use this variation, which is purified with ultraviolet light to preserve its antibacterial properties. According to specialists, it's quite effective in speeding up the healing process in both chronic and acute wounds. Along with being an active antibacterial agent, Manuka honey is slightly acidic, which is both soothing and conducive to rapid healing. Whether you suffer from bed sores, leg ulcers, or a simple open wound, it's worth applying Medihoney before wrapping with a bandage.
The Common Cold
When you're sick with a cough or sore throat, you're often told to stir some honey in your tea – but do you know why? A recent study shows that honey is superior to dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant, in easing nighttime coughing in children ailed with the common cold. This is because honey has soothing properties which reduce swelling and pain, as well as fight infection, in the membranes of the throat. This can make a sore throat more manageable and a cough less frequent, helping you to get a better nights' sleep.
Acid Reflux
Suffer from heartburn or acid reflux after eating a serving of spicy wings? Or, do you want to eat those wings without having to worry? Just 5ml of honey intake has been proven to provide relief from heartburn and can be used as a preventative measure against gastro esophageal reflux, too. Since honey is much more viscous than water, it coats the esophageal mucosa, hindering acid from penetrating and causing irritation. It's also full of nutrients with soothing properties that provide effective relief from the burning sensations.
We all knew honey – in moderation – is healthy for us, but you probably weren't aware that you had such a superfood hiding in your cabinet!
Sources
Manuka Honey Modulates the Inflammatory Behavior of a dHL-60 Neutrophil Model
Manuka honey to kill drug-resistant bacteria found in cystic fibrosis infections
Antibacterial and antioxidant activity of different types of honey
