What is honey?
Honey is a thick, golden liquid that is produced by bees using the nectar of flowering plants. The type of flowers that the bees visit can affect the taste, smell, and texture of the honey, resulting in different varieties, such as manuka, acacia, clover, and orange blossom.
Honey contains around 40% fructose and 30% glucose, along with some water, pollen, and trace minerals, including potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Refined sugar, by comparison, is 50% fructose and 50% glucose.
*There are many different types of honey, each with their own characteristics, and some people may find it confusing to work out their differences.
***Common types of honey and their properties are as follows:
Raw honey – comes straight from the hive and is available in filtered or
unfiltered forms.
Regular honey - pasteurized and may contain added sugars.
Pure honey – pasteurized but no added ingredients.
contains
Manuka honey – made by bees that feed on the manuka bush. It may have additional health benefits.
Forest honey - made by bees that take honeydew from trees instead of nectar
from flowers. It is often darker than other kinds of honey. * Acacia honey - made by bees that feed on the flowers of the black locust tree. It is
often lighter than other types of honey.
- Can honey help with wound healing?
Honey has natural antibacterial properties and its effects on wound healing have been well researched.
Both laboratory studies and clinical trials have shown that honey is an effective broad-spectrum antibacterial agent.
- Are there any risks to taking honey?
There is a risk of infant botulism (a rare but serious illness) from honey. It's advised not to give honey to children until they're over one year old.
As honey contains sugar, it can contribute to tooth decay. Speak to your dentist or another health professional if you're concerned about dental health.
- Is honey vegan?
No - honey is produced by bees and therefore counts as an animal product.
*** Fast facts on honey***
Honey is linked to wound-healing properties and antibacterial action. > It has been used in medicine for over 5,000 years.
Honey can replace sugar in meals, providing a healthier option. However, they can also add browning and excess moisture to a dish.