Honey has been cherished for centuries not only for its delicious taste but also for its numerous health benefits. From boosting immunity to aiding digestion, this golden liquid from nature offers a range of advantages that make it a valuable addition to any diet. Let's explore why organic honey is more than just a sweet treat.
1. Nutrient-Rich and Antioxidant Properties
Honey is rich in essential nutrients and antioxidants. It contains vitamins such as vitamin C, B vitamins, and minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. Antioxidants in honey help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall health.
2. Natural Energy Source
The natural sugars in honey—predominantly fructose and glucose—provide a quick source of energy. Unlike refined sugars, honey also contains enzymes and other compounds that aid in its digestion and absorption into the bloodstream, offering a sustained energy boost.
3. Immune System Support
Honey has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that can help boost the immune system and fight infections. It has been used traditionally to soothe sore throats and coughs, making it a natural remedy for respiratory ailments.
4. Wound Healing and Skin Benefits
Topical application of honey has been shown to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation. Its antibacterial properties can help prevent infection, while its moisturizing effects contribute to soft and supple skin. Honey is used in various skincare products for its beneficial effects on skin health.
5. Digestive Health
Honey can aid digestion and promote gastrointestinal health. It has prebiotic properties that support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, improving overall digestive function and nutrient absorption. It has also been shown to be effective in treating Helicobacter Pylori.
6. Allergy Relief
Consuming locally sourced honey may help alleviate seasonal allergies. It contains trace amounts of pollen from local plants, which can desensitize the immune system and reduce allergy symptoms over time. However, more research is needed to fully understand this benefit.
7. Honey is Slightly Better than Refined Sugar for Diabetics
It can also lower triglycerides by around 10 – 20 %, a major driver for Type 2 Diabetes, which in turn may help reduce your risk of getting the disease.
8. Cough Suppressant
For children over 1 year old, honey can act as a cough suppressant, and when included with lemon and warm water can soothe a sore throat.
Why Organic?
While we will not be able to certify our honey due to the very stringent requirements for certified organic honey, we do live on a certified organic farm, outside the beautiful town of Gumeracha in the Adelaide Hills and our property is luckily not surrounded by anything other than grazing land, glorious old red gums and our beautiful certified organic vegetables.
To be accredited with honey there must be a 25km free fly zone, which is why there are only a very few certified organic honey suppliers in SA. We are passionate about supplying you with our fresh unprocessed raw organic honey with the priority being the health of the bees, and a natural chemical free environment.
Our honey will be raw and not exposed to the chemical and heat processes involved in conventional honey production.
Healthy Honey Recipes
- Honeyed Carrots
- Ingredients
- 1kg Organic Carrots
- 1/3 cup Butter, Sunflower or Olive Oil
- 3 Tbsp Organic Honey
- 4 Cloves Garlic, Minced
- Salt and cracked black pepper
- 2 Tbsp of Organic Herbs (rosemary and parsley work well)
Method
- Preheat oven to 220°c.
- Trim ends of carrots and cut into quarters.
- Melt oil or butter over medium-heat. Pour in honey and cook, while stirring, until completely melted through the butter. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds while stirring.
- Add the carrots for a minute, while tossing the carrots through the sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
- Put half of the juice to the side.
- Transfer carrots to baking sheet in a single layer so they cook evenly, or to save on dishes, place the skillet or pan in the oven if it is large enough. Toss to evenly coat.
- Roast for 20 minutes, or until carrots are fork-tender.
- Season with a the remaining juices and a little extra salt and pepper if desired. Garnish with herbs.
Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
Ingredients
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon white-wine vinegar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice from half lemon
- 1/3 cup organic olive oil
Method
- Add al ingredients to a mason jar with your favourite herbs
- Replace the lid and shake well.
- Pour over salad and enjoy!
Spelt Banana Pancakes with Honey Butter
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups spelt flour
- 2 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- dash cinnamon
- 1 cup milk (or vegan alternative)
- 3 tablespoons melted butter or cooking oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 banana mashed
- 1-2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Method
- Mix together flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon.
- Mix together mashed banana, butter, eggs, honey, vanilla in another bowl.
- Add in milk and mix with flour mixture.
- Heat a pan or griddle to low and rub a little oil on.
- When pancakes begin to bubble, turn over.
- Apply oil with paper towel between each batch.
- Top with extra honey, nuts or seeds, berries and sliced bananas for a delicious treat!
