5 Benefits of Raw White Honey

All varieties of honey naturally harbor nutrients and enzymes that offer multiple health perks and medicinal uses. In fact, honey has long been employed as a traditional remedy for a variety of ailments.

There are many kinds of honey. The flavor, hue, and precise nutrient profile of honey vary depending on where bees gathered the nectar and which blossoms it originated from.

What is white honey?

White honeys typically have a milder taste than darker varieties. Plants that yield white honey include:

• sage
• alfalfa
• fireweed
• white clover

White honey isn’t truly white. Instead, it appears as a very pale amber or an almost clear “water-white” shade.

There’s also an uncommon type called kiawe honey, from kiawe trees in Hawaii. This honey is harvested as a liquid and naturally crystallizes into a smooth, creamy white with a spreadable, butter-like texture. White kiawe honey is typically sold raw.

When any honey crystallizes, it turns cloudy and paler, sometimes nearly white, forming solid, sugar-like crystals. Gentle heating will return crystallized honey to a liquid state. Some producers intentionally induce crystallization and then blend the crystals to create the creamy consistency associated with kiawe honey.

What is raw honey?

Raw honey can be described in two ways. Truly raw honey is taken directly from the hive and packaged without exposure to heat. Commercial raw honey undergoes minimal processing, but less than honey not labeled raw.

Most of the honey sold in supermarkets is processed. Heating improves color and texture and prevents unwanted crystallization. However, many of the beneficial antioxidants and microbes are diminished or destroyed by this treatment.

If you want to try raw white honey, purchase it from a reputable local source.

Below are several health benefits associated with raw white honey.

1. Antioxidant powerhouse

Raw honey contains antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds. White honey also includes these antioxidants. Antioxidants help shield your body from cellular damage caused by free radicals.

Free radicals accelerate aging and may increase the risk for chronic illnesses like cancer and heart disease. Research indicates that polyphenols in honey, especially raw natural honey, might help prevent heart disease.

If you’re seeking a sugar alternative, honey offers a healthier means to satisfy sweet cravings while adding antioxidants to your diet. White honeys’ gentle flavor makes them suitable for baking or snacking.

2. Cough relief

Honey can act as a cough suppressant and is commonly used for soothing sore throats. Next time you have a cough or a cold, try stirring honey into hot tea with lemon.

A study in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that honey was as effective as dextromethorphan, a common over-the-counter cough medicine ingredient, for treating cough. You can also take 1 or 2 teaspoons of raw honey directly.

3. Protective phytonutrients

Phytonutrients are plant-derived compounds that protect plants from damage, keeping them safe from pests, disease, and intense UV radiation.

These substances offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and can positively influence human health. Because honey originates from plants, it contains phytonutrients. These beneficial compounds are characteristic of raw honey and are lost when honey undergoes heavy processing.

4. Skin care and wound healing

Honey has been used historically to treat skin wounds, and today it’s also incorporated into cosmetic products.

Studies show raw honey can inhibit harmful bacteria and fungi. It naturally contains hydrogen peroxide, which has antiseptic properties.

5. Easing digestive issues

Traditionally, honey has been used for digestive problems like diarrhea and ulcers. Peptic ulcers form in the stomach or digestive tract. Taking 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw honey on an empty stomach is believed to ease discomfort and support healing.

Some research suggests potential benefit, but further studies are required.

However, raw honey is not recommended as a primary treatment for ulcers.

Next steps

Raw honey offers beneficial microbes and nutrients, but it can also contain harmful bacteria that cause botulism, a rare but serious illness. This risk is particularly dangerous for infants, so never give raw honey to a baby under 1 year old.

People with compromised immune systems are also at greater risk of illness from raw honey. In adults, botulism produces symptoms similar to foodborne illness, including nausea, vomiting, and fever. Consult your physician if you develop these symptoms after consuming raw honey.