5 Ways To Use Honey As A Natural Remedy

When it comes to natural sweeteners, the first thing that strikes the mind is definitely honey.A sweet liquid, honey is made by bees from the nectar of flowers. Organic honey is collected from wild bee colonies or domesticated beehives.

Honey is a delicious and natural sweetener that many of us prefer in our milk, juice, tea, lemon water or simply on our bread.A rich source of natural sugars, honey contains antioxidants and flavonoids that are beneficial for health. Its potent antibacterial and antiseptic properties help keep bacterial and fungal infections at bay.Other nutrients that honey has are riboflavin, niacin, vitamins B12 and C, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus and magnesium.

Heals Wounds

Minor wounds, grazes, skin abrasions and cuts are common in everyday life. Now, when you need to treat a minor wound or cut, just grab your jar of honey.Honey works as a natural antiseptic and has many antimicrobial properties that can sterilize wounds and promote healing, while also reducing pain, odor and the size of the wound.

- Simply put a layer of pure honey on the site of the wound. Cover it with gauze and a bandage, if needed. Replace it a few times a day, as needed.
- Alternatively, mix equal amounts of honey and turmeric and apply it on the wound 2 or 3 times a day. You can leave it on for at least 30 minutes before rinsing it off.

* Soothes Minor Burns

Many of us experience minor burns, and there is nothing to worry about if you have a jar of honey at home. Raw honey can soothe and heal the skin, and its natural antibacterial properties effectively prevent infection.

- Immediately after getting a burn, rinse it under cool running water.
- Simply dab some honey onto a minor burn.
- Lightly cover the affected area with a gauze bandage.
- Repeat as needed until the wound is healed.

* Treats Sore Throats and Coughs

When you’ve got a sore throat or a cough, you don’t need over-the-counter medicines. A spoonful of honey can provide you instant relief. Even the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend honey as a natural cough remedy.

- Drink a cup of hot milk or soothing herbal tea with 1 tablespoon of honey twice daily to soothe a sore throat.
- Have 2 teaspoons of honey 30 minutes before bed to enjoy less coughing and better sleep at night.
- Put 1½ tablespoons of lemon zest, ¼ cup of sliced ginger, 1 cup of water and ½ cup of lemon juice in a small pan.
- Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer for another 5 minutes. Strain and add 1 cup of honey to the liquid. - Give ½ teaspoon to 1 tablespoon of this solution every 2 hours, depending upon the person’s age.

* Cures Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects the skin cells and causes redness, blisters, itching and even lesions.You can always rely on honey to get fast relief from the irritating symptoms of psoriasis.Its moisturizing property forms a protective layer on broken skin and helps relieve the dryness, patching and peeling away of the skin. Plus, it has anti-inflammatory compounds that fight inflammation and boost the immune system.

- Rub some honey on your dry, patchy skin. Let it sit for about 30 minutes before washing it off. Do it 1 or 2 times a day, as needed.
- Alternatively, put 1 teaspoon each of honey, olive oil and beeswax in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm the mixture in the microwave until the beeswax melts. Stir the mixture and allow it to cool down. Apply it on the affected area as a lotion a few times a day.

* Improves Memory

If you’ve recently started to forget things or you’re unable to recall things, honey can save you from this problem. This natural sweetener can improve both short-term and long-term memory.

- The simplest remedy is just to take 1 to 2 tablespoons of local honey, either in the morning 30 minutes before breakfast or just before going to bed.
- Alternatively, mix 1 teaspoon each of honey and powdered ginseng.
- Add 1 cup of lukewarm water to the mixture. Mix well and drink it while it is still warm, once daily.