by Kimberley Heit

Created on: August 24, 2008   Last Updated: August 26, 2008

Honey has often been referred to as "the nectar of the gods". With its many and varied medicinal properties this is a very fitting term. Honey has come a long way since its initial use as a medical tool thousands of years ago; today it is one of the few natural remedies that both doctors and alternative practitioners can agree works. You will find it in use in hospital wards through to home medicine cabinets, treating common conditions like a sore throat through to saving limbs infected with flesh bacteria.

Whether applied topically or consumed orally, honey has many healing abilities. The main conditions it is being used to treat include:

SORE THROAT-studies have demonstrated that honey is a more effective treatment then over the counter pharmaceuticals when it comes to treating a sore throat. Honey is an effective fighting agent against the bacteria streptococcus pyogenes which is the cause of sore throats. In addition honey provides a coating over the throat which protects it from abrasion. For a sore throat consume a spoonful of honey or add lemon and honey to hot water.

STOMACH ULCERS-honey has been found to stop the growth of helicobacter pylori which contributes to the majority of stomach ulcers and unlike antibiotics it does not attack the good bacteria in the stomach.

CONSTIPATION-honey combined with lemon juice, milk or yoghurt can promote a natural laxative effect. Honey helps carry moisture through the digestive system and stimulates the growth of probiotic bacteria Acidophillus and Bifidus. This promotes a healthy digestive system which leads to regular bowel movements.

ENERGY-honey is a healthy source of energy. If you need to recover from a sporting activity honey will provide a much healthier alternative to drinks filled with artificial flavors and colors.

EYE CONDITIONS-research is currently underway into the successfulness of using honey to treat various eye conditions. To date it has been discovered that honey effectively treated conjunctivitis in animal studies.

HEALTHY TEETH-research suggests that honey inhibits acid production preventing the onset of cavities.

STOMACH UPSETS-just like glucose honey helps the body reabsorb sodium from water helping keep the body hydrated. This leads to a quicker recovery from vomiting and diarrhea bugs.

SLEEPLESSNESS-a treatment passed down from our grandparents, grandparents is to drink a cup of warm milk with honey to aid sleep.

SKIN CONDITIONS AND WOUND CARE:

This is by far where the most revolutionary breakthroughs

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