Honey provides a myriad of well-being effects on physical and mental health. From its antioxidant properties to its potential role in promoting better sleep, honey emerges as more than just a sweet treat.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Honey is rich in antioxidants like polyphenols, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds (Alvarez-Suarez et al., 2010). These antioxidants have been associated with reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Immune System Support:
The antimicrobial properties of honey have been studied for their potential in supporting the immune system. Honey's ability to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria and its anti-inflammatory effects may contribute to enhanced immune function (Mandal & Mandal, 2011). Regular consumption of honey may thus serve as a natural way to bolster the body's defenses.
Sleep Quality Improvement:
Honey has also been explored for its potential role in promoting better sleep. The natural sugars in honey can stimulate the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that converts to melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles (Ferguson, 2017). Including honey in evening rituals, such as a warm honey-infused beverage, may contribute to improved sleep quality.
Research (Lansdown A. B., 2006) highlights honey's wound-healing properties, attributing its effectiveness to its antimicrobial activity and ability to create a favorable environment for tissue regeneration. Additionally, honey's moisturizing properties make it a sought-after ingredient in skincare.
References:
Alvarez-Suarez, J. M., Tulipani, S., Díaz, D., Estevez, Y., Romandini, S., Giampieri, F., & Battino, M. (2010). Antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity of several monofloral Cuban honeys and their correlation with color, polyphenol content and other chemical compounds. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 48(8-9), 2490-2499.
Ferguson, L. R. (2017). Chronic inflammation and mutagenesis. Mutation Research/Reviews in Mutation Research, 768, 69-86.
Lansdown A. B. (2006). Silver in health care: antimicrobial effects and safety in use. Current problems in dermatology, 33, 17–34. https://doi.org/10.1159/000093928
Mandal, M. D., & Mandal, S. (2011). Honey: its medicinal property and antibacterial activity. Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine, 1(2), 154-160.