Do you like honey? Most people do. There are many great benefits of having honey every day.
Autumn is honey harvest season, which runs from September through October. It’s when the final batch is produced from late blooming flowers. Beekeepers are excited to collect honey which bees create from buckwheat, goldenrod and other late blooming flowers.
Embrace Autumn. Embrace honey! Get to your nearest farmers market and enjoy!
Here are 10 health benefits of honey, especially when used in moderation:
- 🍯 Soothes coughs – Honey can help reduce coughing and soothe an irritated throat.
- 🛡️ Contains antioxidants – It provides compounds such as flavonoids and phenolic acids that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
- 🦠 Has antimicrobial properties – Honey can inhibit the growth of some bacteria and microorganisms.
- 🔥 May help with wound healing – Medical-grade honey is used in some wound-care settings because of its antimicrobial and moisture-balancing properties.
- 😴 May support better sleep – A small amount before bed may help some people relax, although evidence for honey specifically improving sleep is limited.
- ⚡ Provides quick energy – Its natural sugars provide readily available carbohydrates.
- ❤️ May support heart health – Some studies suggest honey may have favorable effects on cholesterol and other cardiovascular markers, though more research is needed.
- 🌿 May support digestion – Honey can have prebiotic-like effects and may support beneficial gut bacteria.
- 🧠 Provides protective plant compounds – Its antioxidants may contribute to overall cellular and brain health.
- 🏃 Useful around exercise – Because it contains readily available carbohydrates, honey can be a convenient source of energy before or during prolonged physical activity.
One important caveat: Honey is still mostly sugar, so more isn’t necessarily better. Also, never give honey to children under 1 year old because of the risk of infant botulism.
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