Apitherapy: How the Honeybee Heals - Honeybee: Lessons from an Accidental Beekeeper - page 104

H EALTH B ENEFITS OF H ONEY
Raw honey is a living food with unadulterated health benefits. The pH of honey is
commonly between 3.4 and 6.1; the average is 3.9. This relatively acidic pH level and
honey's low moisture-content prevent the growth of many bacteria responsible for in-
fection. They also keep honey from spoiling. Honey is a predigested sweetener that is
easily assimilated by the body, and it is an excellent energizer that can be used to en-
hance athletic performance and relieve low blood sugar. Honey supplies two stages of
energy. The glucose in honey is absorbed by the body quickly and gives an immedi-
ate energy boost. The fructose is absorbed more slowly, providing sustained energy.
Raw honey still in the comb contains trace amount of bee pollen and propolis; it is ex-
cellent for your immune system. Raw honey has been proven to kill E. coli, staph, P.
aeruinosa, and H. pylori, which causes many stomach ulcers. The enzyme glucose oxi-
dase in honey makes honey a natural preservative and can create hydrogen peroxide to
form an antimicrobial barrier. Honey has antiseptic, antibiotic, antifungal, and antibac-
terial properties, and it is a source of antioxidants.
The healing properties of honey have earned it a reputation as one the purest and
most natural remedies. Honey has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of med-
ical problems, including wounds, burns, and scrapes. When honey is used for wounds,
inflammation, swelling, and pain are quickly reduced, and healing occurs rapidly with
minimal scar tissue.
Honey local to your area contains minute particles of pollen from the local flora. By
ingesting pure, crude honey that is produced by honeybees in your geographic locale,
your body begins the process of desensitizing itself, and you build up a natural immu-
nity to dust, mold, and pollen in the air.
The following are some things that I've learned throughout the years about honey
from beekeepers here and abroad. Many of these honey remedies have helped me per-
sonally, and I often turn to them before taking any over-the-counter medications.
HONEY AS A COLD REMEDY : Honey is a natural remedy for the symptoms of nasal
congestion, sore throats, and flu. Whenever I have a sore throat, I take a spoonful of
honey,orIgarglewithamixtureoftwotablespoonsofhoney,fourtablespoonsofcider
vinegar,andapinchofsalt.Honeycoatsyourthroat,instantlymakingitfeelbetter.Ad-
ding a little eucalyptus oil or fresh ginger will help to ease congestion. Opera singers
use pure honey to soothe their throats before performances.
HONEY FOR SINUS PRESSURE AND ALLERGIES : Honeycomb or raw liquid honey,
when ingested, can alleviate sinus pressure within minutes. Mixing honey with some
fine-grained salt in warm water and pouring through the sinuses using a neti pot is an
ancientAyurvedictechniquepopularinIndiaandSouthAsia—anditreallyworks. Neti,