Honey Therapy
Honey has been used for centuries across the world, as a topical antibiotic, in the treatments of wounds, cuts, infections, ulcers, sores and other ailments. It is a carbohydrate compound, which is known to create and replace energy, generate heat and form certain tissues in the body. Besides that, honey supplies organisms with substances to form enzymes and other biological ferments, which help in promoting oxidation. Many cultures have been using honey therapy for thousands of years to heal several medical conditions. The topical application of raw organic honey on cuts, wounds, scrapes and burns, can work as an antibiotic, thereby reducing the time required for healing. Honey is known to kill infection-causing bacteria. The high concentration of sugar in honey makes it free of moisture and therefore, honey is like a dry sponge that soaks up the fluid from an infected area, depleting the moisture. The bacteria that cause infections cannot flourish without moisture and so they die. Furthermore, this dry environment also serves to prevent infections. Honey also produces hydrogen peroxide naturally, which is commonly used to heal cuts and wounds. There are several other known honey benefits:
- Honey therapy has been very effective in the treatment of Eczema, which is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the skin. Eczema is characterized by itchy, dry patches on the skin, mainly on the face, elbows, hands, knees and feet. Applying a mixture of raw honey, olive oil, and beeswax over the patches, three times a day, can help in treating the condition.
- Although honey contains more calories than sugar, when consumed with warn water, honey can help digest the fat stored in the body, thereby assisting in weight loss.
- Honey contains antioxidants like Nutraceuticals, which effectively remove the free radicals from the body, thereby improving the immune system.
- Honey is rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins and amino acids, which gives it the ability to soothe and nourish the skin. Honey therapy for skin care helps the skin to retain moisture within its pores, and keeps the skin supple and smooth with a silky soft surface.
- A concoction of honey, mixed with warm milk has a calming effect and is a very helpful remedy for curing insomnia.
- The antibacterial properties present in honey can help relieve sore throats. Honey therapy for respiratory problems not only helps to soothe sore throats, but also kills the infection-causing bacteria.
- Honey is also known as a sobering agent, since it acts as a cure for the discomfort caused by a hangover.
