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Some history of honey

People worldwide have hailed the health benefits of honey for thousands of years.  Some studies have found that consuming raw honey may alleviate seasonal allergies and prevent acid reflux. Honey has also been recommended by some health professionals to treat various skin ailments because of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Honey has been researched for treating wounds, cough, gastrointestinal disease, and cardiovascular disease. 

Honey can be used as a healthier substitute for sugar, but it is important to remember that honey qualifies as an added sugar and is also high in calories (approx. 64 calories per teaspoon) and should be used in moderation. Infants under one year old should never be given raw honey due to the risk of botulism. 

Where to source healthy honey

We’ve all seen that cute little bear filled with “honey” on the grocery store shelf, but did you know that 76% of the honey sold in grocery stores is FAKE??  76%!  In fact, according to Insider.com, honey is the third most faked food item in the world behind milk and olive oil.  Raw honey is best. Any honey labeled “processed” is devoid of any health benefits.

Fortunately, I have a wonderful friend that keeps bees and she keeps me supplied with amazing raw honey. In lieu of payment, we work on a barter system. I pay with something I have made or fresh eggs.  Beekeeping is a skill I would love to learn, but because of the proximity to my neighbors that spray their lawns with chemicals, it wouldn’t be safe for the bees.  If you don’t have a bee-keeping friend – go find one! Before my friend started beekeeping, I would purchase honey from the farmer’s market or a local health food store that sold raw honey from a local source. It’s important to note that if you are using honey for seasonal allergies that is sourced from someone in your area. The health properties (and taste) of honey can vary according to the local flora. If you are unable to find an apiary in your area you can contact the agricultural extension office in your county and they may be able to give you information.  Im sure that you have heard that honey bee populations are rapidly declining, so I encourage you to research and support your local beekeepers.

Using honey

There are sooo many different ways to use honey.  You will notice that all of my recipes, projects, etc. have a common theme.  They are simple and require as few steps/materials/tools as possible.  That is because I don’t have a lot of time (and I’m sure you don’t either). Aside from this blog, I work full time in the healthcare field, I maintain my home, yard, gardens, and animals alone  (My son does come to help me with the heavy lifting), I volunteer on Sundays and I make a conscious effort to spend time with my family and friends whenever possible. So these are just a few of my favorite (and most straightforward) uses for honey.

1. Make honey butter.  Mix ¼ Cup honey with 1 stick of SOFTENED butter with a hand mixer until completely incorporated. You can store it in the refrigerator but it is best served at room temperature.  It can be frozen by placing it in plastic wrap and forming it into a log and placing in the freezer.  Allow to thaw before using. **For cinnamon honey butter add 1 tsp (adjust to personal preference) cinnamon to honey and butter before mixing.

2. Make a scrub for your face and lips.  This scrub exfoliates and moisturizes your skin. I make this scrub fresh each time I use it but you can make a larger batch and store it in the refrigerator, if you prefer.  Add the desired amount of honey into a bowl, and mix in sugar 1 tsp at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. Apply to face and lips (refrain from licking it off your lips because it smells and tastes delicious) and massage gently. Leave it on for five minutes. Rinse with warm water.

3. Make a versatile vinaigrette. In a glass jar combine ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons honey, and a ½ teaspoon of salt. Shake the jar to combine thoroughly. Store at room temperature. This dressing is great on salads. It especially pairs well with a hearty salad that contains fruit and feta or goat cheese. It’s also good over chicken.  I love the tang of the balsamic combined with the sweetness of the honey.

Honey has it all. With so many diverse uses, it’s no wonder that it has been popular for thousands of years throughout the world. It should definitely be a staple in your pantry.

Let me know what your favorite uses for honey are.

* Please consult with a medical professional before treatment of any medical conditions.*