Honey has long been used as a natural sweetener, but did you know that it also has a variety of other uses? From its antibacterial properties to its ability to promote wound healing, honey is a versatile substance that can be used for a range of purposes, and has been used for its healing properties for centuries. It contains natural enzymes, antioxidants, and antibacterial agents that make it a versatile substance for various purposes.
Here are some additional uses for honey and instructions on how to use it:
- Face mask – Honey is a natural humectant, which means it helps to retain moisture in the skin. It is also antibacterial, which makes it a great ingredient for fighting acne. To use honey as a face mask, apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin and leave on for 10-15 minutes. Rinse off with warm water and pat dry.
- Lip balm – Honey is an excellent natural moisturizer for the lips. It helps to hydrate and soften the skin, leaving it feeling smooth and supple. To make a honey lip balm, mix equal parts honey and coconut oil in a small container. Apply to the lips as needed throughout the day.
- Hair mask – Honey is an excellent natural conditioner for the hair. It helps to hydrate and nourish the hair, leaving it soft and shiny. To use honey as a hair mask, mix equal parts honey and olive oil in a small bowl. Apply to the hair, focusing on the ends, and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and shampoo as usual.
- Face wash – Honey is a gentle and effective natural cleanser for the skin. It helps to remove dirt and impurities, while also hydrating the skin. To use honey as a face wash, wet your face with warm water and apply a small amount of honey to your fingertips. Gently massage into the skin in a circular motion, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.
- Cuts and burns – Honey has natural antibacterial properties, which make it an excellent natural remedy for minor cuts and burns. Apply a small amount of honey to the affected area and cover with a sterile bandage. Change the bandage and re-apply honey as needed.
- Exfoliant – Honey is a gentle and natural exfoliant for the skin. It helps to remove dead skin cells, leaving the skin feeling soft and smooth. To use honey as an exfoliant, mix equal parts honey and sugar in a small bowl. Gently massage into the skin in a circular motion, then rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry.
- Sore throat – Honey is a natural cough suppressant and can help to soothe a sore throat. Mix a tablespoon of honey into a cup of warm water or tea and drink slowly.
- Making mead – Honey can also be used to make mead, an alcoholic beverage made from fermented honey. To make mead, combine honey, water, and yeast in a fermentation vessel and let it ferment for several weeks. The resulting beverage can be enjoyed as is or flavored with fruits, spices, or herbs.
- Plant rooting compound – Honey can also be used as a natural rooting hormone for plants. Simply dip the cutting in honey and plant it in soil as usual. The natural antibacterial properties of honey can help prevent infections and promote healthy root growth.
- Immune boosting – Fermented garlic in honey is a popular folk remedy that is believed to boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and even prevent certain types of cancer. It’s a simple yet powerful way to take advantage of the natural antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties of garlic and honey.How to make fermented garlic in honey:
- Begin by sterilizing the jar and lid by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Once sterilized, allow them to cool to room temperature.
- Place 1 head of peeled garlic cloves in the jar, leaving about 1 inch of space at the top.
- Pour the raw honey over the garlic, making sure all the cloves are fully covered. If necessary, use a spoon to push down any garlic that floats to the surface.
- Close the jar tightly and let it sit at room temperature for at least 3 days, or up to 2 weeks. During this time, the honey will ferment, creating bubbles and releasing gases. It’s important to “burp” the jar every day or so by opening the lid briefly to release the pressure. This will prevent the jar from exploding.
- After the fermentation period is complete, store the jar in the refrigerator. The fermented garlic in honey will keep for several months.
To use, simply take a spoonful of the honey and garlic mixture daily, either on its own or added to tea or other beverages. The potent combination of garlic and honey is believed to help boost the immune system, fight off infections, and promote overall health and wellbeing.
Honey is a versatile substance that can be used for a wide range of purposes, from culinary to medicinal. Its natural antibacterial, moisturizing, and healing properties make it a valuable addition to any household. So, the next time you have a jar of honey in your pantry, consider exploring its many uses beyond just sweetening your tea or oatmeal.
For ultimate benefits, it’s recommended to purchase raw honey directly from a beekeeper to ensure it’s 100% natural and not heated or diluted as is the case with many supermarket honey brands.
Indulge in the ultimate honey experience with our range of options available in glass jars and resealable pouches. We offer a variety of choices including with added honeycomb, as well as honey infused with organic lavender flowers or rose petals, for an extra touch of luxury.
Check out our website for the entire range available: www.honeybeehives.com.au/product-category/honeyandhoneycomb