Raw honey is the golden, sweet elixir that comes into its own this time of year.

It is about 80% sugar, so we may not benefit from Winnie the Pooh-level quantities of the stuff. However, I disagree with anyone who says it’s no different from standard white sugar – and there’s plenty of science out there to back me up. There are so many things that are awesome about honey as opposed to sugar.

Note that a lot of the studies looking at these effects use unprocessed honey, rather than the supercheap, super runny honey you can get in the supermarket. But you don’t have to spend a fortune on imported Manuka honey. Local honey is usually unprocessed, just as good, and supports local bees and their keepers.

Here are 8 gifts that honey provides any day of the week:

1. Honey is more effective than cough syrup for sore and scratchy throats. It’s an instant soother, and also anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory, so ticks all your winter virus boxes.

2. Its wonder-nutrients can handle a little heat, so go ahead and stir a little into porridge and herbal teas – thyme tea, chamomile tea and ginger tea are all excellent choices for sore throats.

3. It’s also great for cuts, ulcers, and minor burns – it’s a natural antiseptic, plus the propolis stimulates collagen building.

4. There are over 500 polyphenols in the propolis alone in honey, which is why it has so many anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other health-giving properties.

5. Polyphenols (such as those in honey) are food for your microbiome, which is the frontline of your immune system.

6. Polyphenols also help with blood sugar management – and indeed honey has shown anti-diabetic effects in people with Type 2 diabetes, such as improving fasting blood glucose levels.

7. Honey may help reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels too.

8. Local beekeepers are more likely to use sustainable approaches, which means buying local honey supports the pollinators and general ecosystem where you live.

 

Local honey finder – England, Scotland, Wales