View source for Honey

{{bl| Honey }}{{ct| Med }}

=== Honey ===
'''Alternate Names:''' Raw Honey, Liquid Honey, Bee Honey, Wild Honey

==== Chart of Uses: ====
{| class="wikitable"
!'''Use'''
!'''Description'''
!'''Index'''
|-
|Antioxidant Support
|Honey is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage.
|{{ct|AntioxidantSupport}}
|-
|Wound Healing
|Honey has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that make it effective for promoting wound healing, especially for burns, cuts, and ulcers.
|{{ct|WoundHealing}}
|-
|Cough and Sore Throat Relief
|Honey is a natural remedy for soothing sore throats and coughs due to its antimicrobial properties and ability to coat the throat.
|{{ct|CoughRelief}}
|-
|Digestive Aid
|Honey can support digestion by promoting gut health, improving bowel function, and acting as a prebiotic. It can also help with indigestion.
|{{ct|DigestiveAid}}
|-
|Immune Support
|Due to its antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties, honey supports immune function and helps protect against infections.
|{{ct|ImmuneSupport}}
|-
|Skin Health and Moisturizing
|Honey is a natural humectant that helps moisturize the skin, treat acne, and promote overall skin health by drawing moisture to the skin.
|{{ct|SkinHealth}}
|-
|Energy Boost
|Honey is a quick source of natural energy due to its carbohydrate content, primarily glucose and fructose, which are easily absorbed.
|{{ct|EnergyBoost}}
|}
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==== Warnings: ====

# '''Infants Under 1 Year Old:''' Honey should not be given to infants under 1 year old due to the risk of botulism, a rare but serious illness caused by bacteria that can grow in honey.
# '''Allergic Reactions:''' Some people may be allergic to honey, particularly those with a bee pollen allergy, which can cause symptoms like hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
# '''Blood Sugar:''' Honey, though natural, is still a form of sugar, so it should be used in moderation, particularly by individuals with diabetes or those trying to manage blood sugar levels.
# '''Dental Health:''' Regular consumption of honey can contribute to tooth decay due to its sugar content, so it’s important to practice good oral hygiene after consuming honey.

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==== Active Compounds: ====

# '''Flavonoids:''' These compounds, such as quercetin and kaempferol, are powerful antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and have anti-inflammatory effects.
# '''Phenolic Acids:''' Honey contains phenolic compounds like caffeic acid and p-coumaric acid, which contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
# '''Hydrogen Peroxide:''' A natural byproduct of honey’s enzymatic activity, hydrogen peroxide gives honey its antimicrobial properties, making it effective for wound healing.
# '''Methylglyoxal:''' Found in higher concentrations in manuka honey, methylglyoxal has been shown to have strong antibacterial effects.
# '''Fructose and Glucose:''' These simple sugars provide quick energy and help the body absorb nutrients more efficiently.

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==== Natural Sources: ====

# '''Bees:''' Honey is produced by honeybees from the nectar of flowers. The specific floral source of nectar affects the flavor and properties of the honey.
# '''Flower Nectar:''' Honey is primarily made from the nectar of various flowers, including clover, acacia, manuka, and many others, each contributing unique properties and flavors.
# '''Honeydew:''' Some honey, known as honeydew honey, is produced from the sugary secretions of insects, such as aphids, rather than flower nectar.