Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Honey Cures and Benefits

Probably, when man first started hunting for honey approximately 10,000 years ago, he was unaware that it had more uses beyond the realms of the kitchen. A thick golden liquid with a distinctively sweet taste and aroma, honey as we all know is a product derived from flower nectar. Its characteristically sweet taste, which is similar to that of granulated sugar, is obtained from the monosaccharides, fructose and glucose. It possesses distinctive chemical components which make it ideal for baking purposes. However, it wasn't until 2,700 years ago that the medicinal properties of honey were placed under the spotlight courtesy of the Egyptians.

At present, it is being used for a variety of medicinal purposes. It is also regarded as one of the natural materials used for safe pain relief. Apart from these, it has chemical properties that make it beneficial for health and beauty purposes. Let us get to know more about the different ways in which honey can be used. Here they are.

  • Honey is used as treatment for some digestive disorders. It is known to be easily processed and imbibed into the stomach. It benefits our intestines by making it more active. Also, it does not irritate the digestive channel walls, which makes it ideal for patients with digestive problems. In line with this, it is known to boost metabolism and aids in comfortable bowel movement.
  • Honey can be effectively used to prevent ulcer formations in the stomach because it has the capacity to block the intensity of raised acidity in the digestive system.
  • It is also used as an effective treatment for poisoning.
  • Honey is particularly helpful in obliterating pain. It possesses helpful antifungal and antibacterial components for healing tissues associated with all kinds of injuries.
  • It is also known for its beneficial uses in curing and preventing various skin ailments and infections.
  • For our skin, it works as an excellent moisturizer. It contains both rejuvenating and moisturizing properties. It is particularly effective in reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
  • In the case of skin burns, honey does not only cool the affected area, but it also relieves pain. It can heal the burn without scarring.
  • For sleep disorders, honey aids in promoting a peaceful sleep. In line with this, it is also known to help us fall asleep more quickly.
  • The calcium and phosphorus content of honey makes it ideal for promoting the healthy growth of our bones and teeth. It can be helpful in preventing children from contracting rickets.
  • Aside from those mentioned previously, honey works well in healing infections caused by athritits and rheumatism.
  • The antibiotic properties of honey aids in soothing throat and tonsil infection. It also alleviates coughing.
  • Science has proven the effectiveness of honey in weight reduction. It stimulates the production of hormones that are known to fight obesity.
  • Mixed with milk, honey can raise a man's sperm production.
  • For nursing mothers, honey can be taken to replace the vitamins and minerals she has lost while breast feeding.
  • As a pain reliever, honey can help diminish menstrual pain. It is also touted as an effective means for healing breast cancer.

Resource Box: Maricel Modesto is a writer and editor who writes for various health and lifestyle magazines.


No comments: