Honey in the Medicine Cabinet

As a beekeeper I am always looking for unusual ways to use honey. In this Instructable I would like to share with you some of the medicinal ways honey can be used. The items you will need for this instructable are the raw honey and some way to apply it, such as a clean eye dropper, butter knife or chopstick.

"A word of caution: some people have allergic reactions to bee products and children under 2 years of age should not consume honey, always consult a medical professional to evaluate the level of treatment that you may require"

Step 1: Finding Raw Honey

The key to successful treatment is using raw honey. First, an explanation about honey and what makes it raw. Not all honey is raw. Simply put, if honey is heated much past 100 degrees it kills the good enzymes in the honey. These enzymes are what gives honey it's unique benefits. To find raw honey talk to a local apiary and ask them how they process their honey. If they do so without high temperatures you have found a good source. You can also find raw honey in the stores. Check the labels on the jars. The jar must read "Raw" and/or "Unprocessed" somewhere on the label, as shown in the examples.

Step 2: Using Honey to Treat Cuts or Burns

Honey can be applied topically to help a cut or burn heal faster. It acts very much like a natural Neosporin. Simply apply a small amount of honey to the wound and cover it with a bandage. If you require additional coverage use a clean applicator. The first time that I tried this on a cut I thought it would sting like crazy. Don't worry, honey is very gentle on wounds.

Step 3: Using Honey on Acne

Honey contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflamitory agents so it makes a good topical treatment for acne. As with any topical treatment use a clean applicator on the affected area and let the honey set for at least 15 minutes. When you are ready to remove the honey simply wash it off and dry your skin. The anti-inflamitory agents in the honey will help reduce redness around the area (just in time to go to that party)

Step 4: Using Honey on Mouth Ulcers

Mouth ulcers are the worst, and the quicker you can cure them the sooner you can get back to eating your favorite spicy foods. Honey helps to soothe ulcers by helping to retain moisture. Honey's natural antioxidant and antimicrobial properties accelerate the healing process. To treat a mouth ulcer grab a clean cotton swap. Use one end of the swab to dry the ulcer and area around it first. Then use the remaining clean end to apply some honey to the site. Resist the temptation to lick the honey away and allow it to do it's work. For mouth sores caused by radiation therapy, use manuka honey with an active rating of 10 or higher. Manuka honey is honey created from the manuka flower of the tea tree in New Zeland. Be sure to check the labels and talk with your grocer to be sure you are getting an authentic product and expect to pay more for this jar of honey. Don't let the cost scare you as it is worth it and still costs less than most medications.

I hope these tips help.

Bee Healthy