Raw, unpasteurized honey isn’t just a sweet treat—it’s a powerhouse ingredient that can do everything from soothing a sore throat to clearing up acne. Ready to make the most of it? Here are 15 awesome ways to use raw honey in your daily routine.
1. Say Goodbye to Seasonal Allergies
Dealing with sniffles and itchy eyes? Local, raw honey might help your body build tolerance to pollen in your area. Try stirring a spoonful into some cooled nettle tea for an extra allergy-fighting boost.
2. Fights Off Infections
Feel a sore throat coming on? Skip the artificial lozenges and take a spoonful of raw honey instead—its natural antibacterial properties can help kick those bad bugs to the curb.
3. Clears Up Acne
Honey is a natural infection-fighter, moisture balancer, and wound healer all in one—making it a simple and effective way to treat breakouts. Just dab a little on problem spots to speed up healing and prevent future flare-ups.
4. A Natural Energy Booster
Ditch the sugar-packed energy drinks! A glass of water with raw honey is a great way to get a quick, natural energy boost without the crash.
5. Supports Brain Health & Memory
Some studies suggest that raw honey may help prevent hormone-related memory decline, especially in older adults. A spoonful a day might just help keep your brain sharp!
6. Soothes a Nagging Cough
Got a dry, tickly cough that won’t quit? A spoonful of honey can coat your throat, reduce inflammation, and even fight respiratory infections—perfect for cold and flu season.
7. Promotes Better Sleep
Struggling to get a good night’s rest? Honey helps stabilize blood sugar and increases serotonin and melatonin levels—two key chemicals for relaxation and deep sleep.
8. Use It as a Shampoo
Yes, you can wash your hair with honey! Just mix a tablespoon with warm water for a gentle, moisturizing shampoo that leaves your hair soft (and no, it won’t make it sticky!).
9. A Natural Wound Healer
Hospitals have been using honey on bandages for years, and for good reason—it’s a natural antiseptic that speeds up healing and prevents infections.
10. The Best DIY Face Wash
Forget pricey skincare products loaded with chemicals. Honey cleanses, hydrates, and provides antioxidants that fight aging. Just apply a little to damp skin, massage gently, and rinse with warm water.
11. A Healthier Sweetener for Baking
Swap refined sugar for raw honey in your coffee, tea, baked goods, and smoothies. It adds a natural sweetness while offering health benefits, unlike processed sweeteners.
12. Fights Inflammation
Raw honey helps lower levels of inflammatory markers in the body, which may reduce your risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease.
13. Treats Dandruff
Thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, honey can help soothe dandruff and other scalp issues. Try mixing it with water and massaging it into your scalp before rinsing.
14. Keeps Food Fresh Longer
Because honey is naturally antibacterial, it can help preserve food and prevent spoilage—making it a great natural preservative for homemade jams, sauces, and more.
15. Improves Digestion
Loaded with prebiotics, honey helps feed the good bacteria in your gut. It can also ease nausea and indigestion. Try mixing honey with lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, and warm water for a digestion-boosting drink.
Is Raw Honey Safe for Everyone?
For most people, raw honey is completely safe to eat, but it’s important to know that it can contain bacterial spores that could cause botulism in infants under 12 months or people with severely compromised immune systems. However, for older children and adults with healthy digestive systems, raw honey is perfectly safe and packed with benefits.
So, whether you’re using it to fight allergies, boost your energy, or upgrade your skincare routine, raw honey is definitely worth keeping around!