Honey has been a staple in many cultures throughout the years. Its health benefits have earned it a place among traditional medicines and today, research is proving that it can hold its own when it comes to modern medicine as well.
cc licensed flickr photo by Vicky Brock
What is Raw Unpasteurized Honey?
Raw Unpasteurized honey has not been heated, or processed in any way, although it undergoes a straining process to remove debris before being sold. This is beneficial because there is no enzyme or nutrient degradation. This ensures that you receive the most out of your honey.
Not only is the honey sold at The Granary raw and unpasteurized, it is local as well. You can enjoy your honey, and its health benefits knowing that you’re supporting local farmers. We sell it in bulk, so feel free to bring in your own jar for us to refill.
10 Health Benefits of Raw Honey
- Source of Vitamins and Minerals – There are a variety of vitamins and minerals in honey. Interestingly enough, the type of vitamins and minerals and their quantity depends on the type of flowers the pollen was harvested from. The most common components are Vitamin C, calcium and iron.
- Healthier Natural Sweetener – Because raw honey has not been processed, as white sugar is, it contains enzymes that have been filtered out of traditional sweeteners. Honey is also much sweeter than table sugar, which means you can use less of it.
- Low on the Glycemic Index – Raw honey has a GI score of anywhere from 35 to 48, which is much lower than table sugar. This means that the bonds, which provide energy when broken, are broken slower, providing energy over a longer period of time.
- Weight Loss – There are numerous recipes meant for weight loss that include raw honey, such as the very popular cinnamon, honey mix. When raw honey is consumed with warm water, it helps in digesting the fat stored in your body.
- Improves Athletic Performance – Honey may be valuable in boosting the performance of athletes. It’s a great way to maintain blood sugar levels, promotes muscle recuperation and glycogen restoration after a workout.
- Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties – Honey is often used as a natural antiseptic in traditional medicines, thanks to these properties.
- Antioxidants – Nutraceuticals, which are effective for the removal of free radicals from the body, are present in raw honey. Thanks to this, the body’s immune system is improved. It may even prevent cancer and heart disease.
- Treats Wounds – Honey is effective in treating skin rashes, burns and abrasions, thanks to its ability to reduce inflammation, kill bacteria and germs and provide a protective barrier. It may be covered with a bandage or sprinkled with cornstarch to reduce stickiness.
- Powerful Moisturizer – Honey can be applied directly to the skin and washed off with cold or warm water to leave skin as soft as a baby.
- Treats Colds and Coughs – Honey is capable of coating the throat to prevent pain associated with coughs and colds. The antibiotic properties are especially helpful in relieving irritation.
Source
Organic Facts. “Health Benefits of Honey.” n.d. organicfacts.net. Online. 5 May 2015.
