Mixtures of hot water, lemon and honey are often used to alleviate symptoms of the cold or flu. Honey and lemon are said to soothe sore throats and speed recovery from these respiratory ailments. What benefits do these treatments offer? What is the best way to prepare honey and lemon for health benefits?
Anecdotal evidence suggests that some raw honeys improve digestive ailments and recent research has provided some explanation for this. Buckwheat honey’s particular content of special compounds (phenolics) and certain naturally occuring simple sugars (oligosaccharides) provide special digestive benefits.
Although the health benefits of Manuka honey have been studied for some time, the health benefits of Buckwheat honey are just beginning to be discovered. A comparison of the two honeys across three dimensions (nutritional value, antibacterial activity and antioxidant activity) reveals notable similarities and differences between the two honeys.
Raw honey has long been known to ease the symptoms of the flu and common cold by reducing coughing and easing sore throats. Honey is also known to have potent antimicrobial effects and given the increasing prevalence of drug-resistant microbes, one recent study has examined the anti-influenza viral effects of honey.
In ancient times, honey was considered an aphrodisiac virtually everywhere it was found. Apart from its pleasing sweetness which certainly puts many people in a good mood, there is also some evidence to support its stimulating reputation.