TAP THE HONEYCOMB OF HEALTH THIS WINTER

Honey is not only one of every grandmother’s favorite home remedies for just about any ailment, it continues to be the best jar of health in every home.

The value of honey transcends natural energy and sweetness. Says Dr. Janaki, Dietician, “Honey provides your body with carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. A teaspoonful of honey’s golden goodness is exactly what you need to get your day off to a great start, especially during the winter season.”

“Honey is also nature’s moisturizer,” says Dr. Janaki. “When the cold winter air leaves your skin dry, apply honey to your face and neck, and leave it on for twenty to thirty minutes. Wash off and enjoy the suppleness and softness that honey restores to your skin. Acid in the honey also helps remove blemishes.”

 Suffering from a dry scalp and hair during winter? Gently massage honey into your scalp to treat dandruff and restore your hair’s moisture balance. Use honey mixed with olive oil for a deep conditioning treatment for your hair every week or as often as required during winter.

This winter, when the low temperatures make you reluctant to leave the warmth of your bed and go outside for a run, head for the honey jar. Just a spoonful can pep you up ahead of exercise, as honey is one of the most effective forms of carbohydrates to ingest before a workout, being easily digested and released into the body at a steady rate for use during exercise. Take another teaspoon of honey after a workout to help your muscles to recuperate.

According to the National Honey Board, honey is fat-free, cholesterol free, sodium free and a nutritious sweetener, containing amino acids and a variety of minerals essential for metabolism. It is actually believed to help in weight loss, by curbing the appetite while maintaining your energy levels throughout the day.

“Winter being the season for coughs and colds, it helps to stock up on honey for a quick and effective cough remedy,” says Dr. Janaki. “Just a few teaspoonfuls of honey can help alleviate a persistent cough. Honey’s antimicrobial properties not only soothe a sore throat but also kill certain bacteria which cause the infection.”  Stave off further infections with honey’s antioxidant and antibacterial properties which help improve the digestive system and boost immunity.