When we look at the word raw, we probably associate it with the preservation of important vitamins, minerals and enzymes. Just as raw vegetables are preferable because of their nutritional content, the same is true of honey. Raw honey is honey that has not been heated, pasteurized or processed in any way.

The difference between raw and pasteurized honey is substantial. Raw honey is an alkaline-forming food that contains natural vitamins, enzymes, powerful antioxidants and other important natural nutrients. These are the very nutrients that are destroyed during the heating and pasteurization process. In fact, pasteurized honey is equivalent to and just as unhealthy as eating refined sugar.

Raw honey has anti-viral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties. It promotes body and digestive health, is a powerful antioxidant, strengthens the immune system, eliminates allergies, and is an excellent remedy for skin wounds and all types of infections.

Raw honey’s benefits don’t stop there. It can also stabilize blood pressure, balance sugar levels, relieve pain, calm nerves, and treat ulcers. Raw honey is also an expectorant and anti-inflammatory, and has been known to effectively treat respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma.

Raw honey purchased from a local source is an excellent way of treating seasonal allergies. Local honey is preferable for treating allergies because the likelihood is great that it will contain small amounts of the specific pollens an individual may be allergic to.

Raw Honey is an effective natural remedy for a variety of conditions

For centuries, honey has been used to treat all sorts of ailments. It can be applied topically to heal wounds and rashes, or it can be taken internally to treat infections and address other health concerns.

Although there are numerous remedies to be had from raw honey, the following are popular remedies for common everyday conditions:

• For skin burns, rashes, and abrasions, place a honey poultice over the affected area.
• Treat acne by placing a small amount on blemishes nightly. This will often clear the skin in a short period of time. Washing your face with honey will leave you with sparkling clean soft skin.
• Raw honey’s antibiotic properties are effective in treating colds and sore throats. It coats the throat and reduces irritation. For blocked sinuses, mix a teaspoon of honey in a pot of hot water, put a towel over your head, and just inhale the steam.
• To treat allergies, take a teaspoon of raw honey a couple of times a day starting a few months prior to allergy season.

The many varieties of honey

There are many varieties of honey, some of which are used to treat specific health conditions.

• Manuka honey has strong anti-bacterial properties and is used to treat a variety of conditions which include colds, sore throats, indigestion, stomach ulcers, and acne.
• Acacia honey cleanses the liver, promotes intestinal health, and reduces inflammation in the respiratory tract.
• Buckwheat honey is a strong tasting and dark honey, with strong antioxidant properties. Unfortunately Buckwheat honey is very scarce, especially in the United States. An alternative would be Red Gum honey that also has strong antioxidant properties.
• Eucalyptus honey can be used to prevent colds and headaches.
• Heather honey has been used since ancient times for its medicinal properties. This honey contains a high level of protein.
• Linden honey is known for its sedative and antiseptic properties. It is used to treat anxiety, insomnia, colds, coughs, and bronchitis.
• Neem honey is highly esteemed in Ayurveda for its medicinal properties. Neem honey is used to treat high blood pressure, diabetes, skin conditions, periodontal infections, throat infections and allergies.

NOTE:

Charles Hall aka Crazy Owl

Years ago and in another lifetime,, I met a man called Crazy Owl (Charles Hall) in Atlanta.  He had a large healing practice and taught us to infuse raw honey with herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage etc.  The results were amazing!

For more information:

http://www.benefits-of-honey.com/raw-honey.html
http://www.carlislehoney.com/allergies.htm
http://www.drgrotte.com/honey-medicine.shtml