5 ways honey can help your health

1

Cough remedy

A study at Penn State College of Medicine in the USA has demonstrated that honey is a far more effective remedy for coughs than over-the-counter cough medicines. Dr Ian Paul followed 105 children with respiratory tract infections, giving some honey and others dextromethorphan, the active ingredient in most cough medicines. The honey takers had fewer coughing fits, better sleep and none of the side effects associated with the medicine.

2

Germ killer

Studies show that wounds heal more rapidly when dressed with honey. It's thought the acid in honey retards bacterial growth, while its moisture-attracting properties dehydrate bacterial cells. Honey also releases hydrogen peroxide, the same antibacterial found in bleach. "Manuka honey is used in registered wound-care products in some hospitals, and certainly beats off-the-shelf antiseptic cream," says Dr Peter Molan, director of the Honey Research Unit at the University of Waikato.

3

Anti-inflammatory

Mother always said honey was good for a sore throat, and she was right. For a sore throat, a spoonful of honey taken every few hours can alleviate symptoms. Apart from containing anti-bacterial substances, honey can also soothe all manner of other inflammations. "Research shows that the potent anti-inflammatory activity of honey can counteract gastritis, an inflammation in the stomach, as well as stomach ulcers," says Dr Molan.

4

Gut buster

Traditional lore has always said honey is good for stomach cramps and digestive problems. "Certainly in treating diarrhoea, honey promotes re-hydration of the body and more quickly clears up diarrhoea, as well as any vomiting and stomach upsets," says Rebecca Campbell from Honey Tasmania. And a Swedish university study has demonstrated honey contains friendly bacteria such as bifido-bacteria, the type added to health yoghurts to promote a healthy gut.

5

Cancer fighter

"Crude honey is a promising candidate for colon cancer prevention thanks to its phenolic compounds," says honey researcher Professor Mahitosh Mandal. Phenols are potent antioxidants that appear to have protective effects on various types of cancer, as well rheumatoid diseases. Manuka honey is currently being trialled in New Zealand for its effects on skin cancer and, in Israel, dosing cancer patients with honey has alleviated the side effects of chemotherapy.