Honey has been an active part of human civilization since 80,000 years ago if cave paintings are anything to go by. It became an integral part of many settlements when beekeeping was introduced 40,000 years ago and over the years the importance grew so much that merchants made policies regarding the production and sales of the sweetener.
In ancient Indian and China, honey was used for its medicinal properties in ayurveda. Egyptians used honey in food that only the rich could afford. The Greek made sweets with honey to offer to their gods as it was considered to be an ambrosia, a drink that would deliver immortality. The Romans used honeyed cakes as prizes for athletes, as it was considered as a luxury item. The Vikings made mead with it. Honey reached its peak during the Renaissance period, honey was a status symbol, the rich and royal used honey in stuffings and their food.
All through the year and eras, one thing has remained constant: the value of honey. While you can now buy honey at the store, unlike back in the day, honey has retained its medical and health values.
Honey is high in natural sugar which makes it the healthier alternative for processed sugar, many opting to use it everyday in tea, cakes, cookies, and on toast. They are high in antioxidants and increase immunity. It also helps lower bad cholesterol.
In ayurveda, honey is used to heal burns, and it promotes tissue growth and reduces scarring and inflammation and is very good for ‘balancing the body’. Honey mixed with water and in food to help with digestive problems and other ailments.
A common solution to a cough, sore throat or cold is honey in tea often mixed with ginger and lemon. It is also used to reduce weight by mixing it in warm water with a dash of lemon early in the morning before breakfast.
Other uses:
- Instead of using sugar in cereal and baking, use honey.
- A mixture of honey and oatmeal helps relieve sunburn.
- Can be used as a conditioner and moisturizer with aloe vera for hair and skin.
- Great with grilled food.
- Honey is also shown to reduce the effect of radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
All in all, honey has become an important part of civilization and our diet. So the next time you have tea on a rainy day, add a spoon of honey just like the royalty did. Just remember that it only works as a replacement of the sugar you are already eating, we don’t recommend adding it to your already balanced diet.