Honey has been revered for thousands of years for its healing properties and health benefits, and you can use it for these purposes too, as long as what you buy is raw, unprocessed honey.
First, raw honey is chock-full of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to prevent cell damage in the body, which helps in anti-aging. Foods high in antioxidants are also believed to help fight disease, although research has not yet proven this.
Honey also can speed the healing process of wounds. Raw honey contains hydrogen peroxide, a natural disinfectant. Because of its thick, viscous nature, honey is also a good barrier between a wound and outside bacteria.
Besides its anti-bacterial benefits, honey can help sooth a number of painful issues. A tablespoon of honey on an empty stomach can help ease the pain of cramps, and honey stirred into warm water or consumed raw can naturally soothe a sore throat. Honey in a bit of warm water or tea can also help as a natural cough suppressant.
Remember that consuming too much honey at once (10 tb. or more) can be detrimental, but if you take a spoonful or so per day, you can reap the benefits of this sweet, natural, delightful treat.