Dangers and Benefits of Raw Honey to Consider

Benefits of raw honey

Unfiltered honey is generally safe and has many health-promoting qualities. Here’s why raw honey is good for you:

1. It has antibacterial properties

Honey is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial, according to the Cleveland Clinic. That’s because most types of honey generate hydrogen peroxide, an antibacterial agent, according to a study published in ‌Food chemistry in December 2020.‌ Other research shows that this is due to the hydrogen peroxide content of honey.

As a result, you can use honey to kill certain bacteria that can lead to infection, notes a report published in the ‌Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences‌ in April 2021. These bacteria include:

• Escherichia coli (E.coli)
• Erogenous Enterobacter
• Salmonella typhimurium
• Staphylococcus aureus

2. It May Promote Wound Healing

Likewise, the antibacterial benefits of local raw honey may also promote wound healing, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Research shows it can help disinfect a wound, promote tissue repair and reduce scarring.

3. It is a rich source of antioxidants

Raw honey is a natural source of antioxidants, which are substances that can protect the body from harmful free radicals and oxidizing agents.

As a result, the antioxidant benefits of consuming local honey are linked to a reduced risk of problems such as:

• Heart disease
• Cancer
• Decline of the immune system
• Cataracts
• Inflammation

There’s also evidence to suggest that dark varieties of honey — like buckwheat, chestnut and manuka honey — contain more antioxidants than light honey, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

4. It Can Soothe Cough Symptoms

Have you ever drunk tea with honey when you have a cold? Well, there is evidence to support this natural cough remedy.

According to the Mayo Clinic, honey can soothe a scratchy throat and act as a cough suppressant when you’re sick.

5. It Might Ease Digestive Discomfort

Another positive side effect of honey is that it can help relieve digestive disorders.

According to the Mayo Clinic, honey can help treat diarrhea. It can also aid rehydration during your recovery.

6. It May Promote Brain Health

Honey is not only good for your body, it can also be good for your brain.

Indeed, according to the Mayo Clinic, some evidence suggests that honey has antidepressant, anticonvulsant, and anti-anxiety qualities. It may also help prevent memory problems, notes a review published in ‌Pharmacognosy research‌ in April 2017. A study published in 2023 also found that honey contains qualities that make it an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that ultimately acts as a “brain booster.”