Honey is a complex mix of natural sugars, minerals, vitamins, pollen and water. Most of the sugars are fructose and glucose, the balance of which determines whether the honey is liquid or has crystallised.
Honey is an all–round healing elixir promoting well–being. It boosts the body’s supply of anti–oxidants which are essential for protecting the body against free radicals. Honey also has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. Honey has been used for medicinal properties for over 5000 years.
Honey is a great remedy for coughs and colds, bringing relief to sore throats and flu like symptoms. Most colds will clear up without antibiotics in about 3 weeks, so why not try honey and lemon mixture in warm water? Try adding some grated ginger or a spoonful of whiskey. This may ease the congestion and give you a better night’s sleep.
The NHS recommends honey for coughs:
Honey from local beekeepers is taken straight from a beehive, extracted and strained to remove the wax or dead bees, but leaving lots of local pollen. Many hayfever sufferers have been known to take a spoonful of local honey to help with their symptoms over the summer months.