Did you know that July is National Organic Honey Month? Thanks to Wedderspoon Organic and the Rodale Institute, July is devoted to all things honeybee! Honeybees are huge contributors to the food system as pollinators, and as a vegan and a lover of all things plant-based, I have to thank them!
Honey is one of the most powerful foods available today. You’ve heard me say it before: Your refrigerator is your pharmacy, and this adage is proven again and again with honey. It’s one of the products that’s ALWAYS in my pantry (and if I’m being honest, I have multiple jars and bottles). Organic honey is simply delicious, an indulgent treat I LOVE in salad dressings, cups of teas, marinades and on fruit. But beyond it’s delicious flavor, honey has some serious practical benefits. Here are your 5 Benefits of Honey!
1. Honey is an anti-inflammatory! Anyone who’s ever had a cold and reached for a hot-tea-and-honey already knows this. It’s a natural cough suppressant, and helps coat an irritated throat.
2. Honey is all all-natural energy drink! Honey is a powerhouse combination of unprocessed sugar – fructose and glucose – and is a great source of natural carbohydrates. When that his your bloodstream it can deliver a quick boost of necessary energy, especially before a workout!
3. Honey is great for your memory! Did you know honey is LOADED with antioxidants? We all know that antioxidants are key for youthful skin, but they’re also important in preventing cellular damage and loss within the brain! The nutraceuticals in honey are very effective in the removal of free radicals from the body. Honey also helps the body absorb calcium (something we all need help with as we age), which can aid brain health!
4. Honey treats dandruff! Ok get this – In 2001, the European Journal of Medical Research published a study that found applying honey diluted with 10% warn water to a problem area, leaving it for three hours and rinsing led to itch relief and no dandruff for a week. Patients even showed an improvement in hair loss. That’s because honey has antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
5. Honey is full of vitamins and minerals! Commonly, honey contains Vitamin C, Calcium and Iron, though it depends on the type of flowers used for apiculture.
Take a few minutes and learn more about the Rodale Institute – Their work in pioneering organic farming through research and outreach is hugely important, and I’m a huge advocate for their work around #beeaware!
And while you’re at it, treat yourself to some Wedderspoon Organic Manuka honey. I love their products so be sure to keep your cabinet stocked!
