NUTRITION

Wound healing, skin care; How to spot fake honey

There are different types of honey, according to the National Honey Board

In Summary

•There are over 300 different varieties. Each having a different flavour, texture and smell.

•But overall, the healthiest honey should be raw, without any additives or preservatives.

Honey bees on a cob
Honey bees on a cob
Image: PIXABAY

Honey has been used for a lot of things since ancient times.

It is known for its many home remedies and alternative medicine treatment but most people do not usually consume enough honey for it to be a significant dietary source of vitamins and minerals.

According to some research, some honey types are used as an efficient way to clear chronically infected wounds or even help reverse bacterial resistance to antibiotics.

There are different types of honey, according to the National Honey Board, which suggests there are over 300 different varieties; each having a different flavour, texture and smell.

But overall, the healthiest honey should be raw, without any additives or preservatives.

It is considered safe to eat except for children younger than 1 year.

To spot fake honey, mix a few teaspoons of honey into a vinegar and water solution. If it starts to foam, your honey quality may be contaminated.

  1. It strengthens your immune system

Honey has countless medical properties due to its high antioxidant and bacteria-fighting properties.

The darker the honey the higher the antioxidants.

According to Healthline, Antioxidants help neutralize reactive oxygen species in your body, which can build up in cells and cause damage.

This damage can contribute to conditions like premature ageing, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

  1. Remedy for cough

Honey is a good remedy for dry and wet coughs. Research suggests that taking a tablespoon of honey reduces irritation in the throat which is caused by excessive coughing.

If your child is coughing a lot at night, give him or her a spoonful of honey.

  1. Used to heal wounds and burns

Packed with antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant properties, honey can be used to heal wounds.

 Manuka honey is considered especially effective in wound healing.

A review of 26 studies on honey and wound care; found it most effective at healing partial-thickness burns and wounds that have become infected after surgery.

Honey has also been found to be an effective treatment for diabetes-related foot ulcers, which are serious complications that can lead to amputation.

Honey can be used as a flavour in youghurt
Honey can be used as a flavour in youghurt
Image: MARGARET WANJIRU
  1. Used instead of regular sugar

When it comes to blood sugar management, honey can be used instead of regular sugar.

However, honey raises your blood sugar level just like other types of sugar do. However, it has slight benefits like improving blood sugar regulation.

It also has adiponectin, a hormone that reduces inflammation. However, people with diabetes are advised to eat it in moderation.

Use it as a spread on your bread for extra benefits
Use it as a spread on your bread for extra benefits
Image: MARGARET WANJIRU
  1. Nourishes your skin and face

Using Honey for the skin is very useful because of its moisturizing and nourishing properties.

Honey is the best natural moisturizer, especially if you have dry skin.

Raw honey not only unclogs pores but it also helps moisturize parched skin, it helps promote and build collagen which is an effective anti-ageing ingredient.

Many people also use honey masks for skin tone correction but do consult your dermatologist first before self treatment.

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