The unique properties of honey have intrigued many scientists. While some of these properties have been attributed to specific constituents present in honey, scientists honestly acknowledge that they cannot definitively determine the exact secret behind honey’s remarkable impact on overall health and its specific role in treating certain diseases. Reading books and research about honey reveals that there is still much we don’t know about this miraculous drink
At BARARI, we believe that the therapeutic and nutritional unique characteristics of raw natural honey lie in the unity and synergy of all its constituents. While honey contains active elements, they do not work in isolation from each other but rather harmoniously. Moreover, these constituents are not as efficient when separated from the rest of the components in honey. In conclusion, Honey is an inseparable whole
All types of raw natural honey share general nutritional and therapeutic characteristics, although the proportions may vary depending on the nectar sources. For example, all types of raw natural honey are antioxidant, immune-boosting, beneficial for the digestive system, anti-aging, and provide the body with quick and easily absorbable energy. However, certain varieties of honey possess more specific therapeutic properties than others. For instance, honey collected from the nectar of thyme flowers has been medically proven to be effective in treating coughs, and some major global companies include it in the production of certain cough medications. Therefore, thyme honey, in this particular aspect, is more beneficial than other types of honey.
We mentioned that honey is mainly composed of monosaccharides (glucose and fructose) at approximately 75%, with a small percentage of sucrose and a minimal amount of other sugars. It’s important to note that all these sugars are produced by bees from natural sources and are not industrially processed.
Monosaccharides are easily absorbed into the bloodstream, starting from the mouth and continuing through the small intestine via a process called facilitated diffusion. Glucose is especially crucial as it serves as the primary energy source for the brain and muscles, including the heart muscle. Fructose, on the other hand, directly travels to the liver through the portal vein without stimulating insulin secretion. The liver derives energy from fructose and converts the remaining portion into glycogen, which helps replenish glycogen stores and acts as an energy reserve for the body. Later, when blood sugar levels drop or when the body requires more energy, glycogen stored in the liver can be broken down into glucose and released into the bloodstream quickly replenishing energy reserves.
This characteristic of honey provides an immediate boost of energy with minimal digestion. Unlike table sugar, which needs to be digested to break down disaccharides into monosaccharides (glucose and fructose), honey is not processed, refined, or chemically altered. Hence, honey is considered one of the most important and fastest sources of energy for the body, offering safety and numerous benefits. Additionally, honey significantly reduces the sensation of physical fatigue, enabling athletes to endure and excel in competitions with less effort. This is in addition to the other essential constituents found in honey.
Scientists use the term “Inhibin” to describe the antibacterial activity observed in honey. However, the specific antibacterial substance in honey has not been identified. Therefore, the combined antibacterial and inhibitory properties of honey are referred to as “Inhibin.”
Polyphenols in Honey
Polyphenols are abundant in honey and are responsible for some of its antioxidant properties, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and others. These compounds act as scavengers for harmful free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and cell damage. Polyphenols have been associated with various health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, certain types of cancer, and neurological disorders. Research has shown a strong relationship between the color of honey and its polyphenol content. Generally, darker honey tends to have higher levels of polyphenols compared to lighter honey.
Mineral Salts in Honey
Dark honey has been scientifically proven to contain more minerals than light honey, thus having a higher alkaline value, making it extremely important in determining the nutritional and therapeutic properties of honey. Some minerals in honey have proportions similar to those found in human blood serum, such as, magnesium, potassium, sodium, calcium, and many others, which makes Honey an alkaline implicit food.
Organic Acids in Honey
Honey also contains a variety of organic acids, such as gluconic acid, acetic acid, citric acid, malic acid, formic acid, and others. These acids possess antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, they support digestive health and improve nutrients absorption they may also enhance digestion by promoting the production of digestive enzymes.
Enzymes in Honey
The highest concentration of enzymes is found in natural raw honey compared to any other natural substance. Scientists attribute some of honey’s excellent properties to their presence. One important enzyme is glucose oxidase enzyme, which produces gluconic acid and, a very powerful antimicrobial compound “Hydrogen peroxide” which was credited by scientists for its valuable antiseptic properties in honey against fungi, viruses, and bacteria, as well as its effectiveness in wound healing and sterilization. Another significant enzyme is catalase, which plays a crucial role in regulating hydrogen peroxide levels in cells. Catalase acts as an antioxidant enzyme, breaking down Hydrogen peroxide into water and Oxygen, thereby maintaining a stable and safe level of Hydrogen peroxide in honey. This enzymatic regulation helps prevent toxicity and the excessive accumulation of hydrogen peroxide, which could otherwise harm cells, tissues, and the quality of honey.
Amino Acids in Honey
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and although they are relatively low in quantity compared to protein-rich foods, their presence in honey is of utmost importance. They are essential for tissue growth, repair, and maintenance, as well as for the production of enzymes, hormones, and neurotransmitters. Amino acids also contribute to energy production and immune enhancement. Examples of amino acids found in honey include Proline, which is abundant and crucial for protein synthesis and collagen formation, essential for the health of skin, joints, and connective tissues. Glycine is important for protein and DNA synthesis, as well as neurotransmitters. It has also been associated with promoting sleep and relaxation. Other amino acids like leucine, valine, and isoleucine, which are essential amino acids, play significant roles in muscle growth, repair, and energy production. Honey contains various other amino acids that add to its health benefits.
Vitamins in Honey
While vitamins are present in small quantities in honey, they are of great importance. Like other components of honey, they work together, and their presence is linked to the presence of pollen grains. Vitamins play crucial roles in all vital processes in the living body, from metabolic functions to sensory organ activities, nervous system functions, growth, and reproduction, among others. Some of the vitamins found in honey include:
Vitamin C, an essential element of the immune system, helps the body in preventing infections and diseases, maintains bone health, accelerates the body’s wound healing process, and is a potent and effective antioxidant that helps combat stress. It also helps lower blood pressure by maintaining the elasticity and integrity of blood vessels, preventing their hardening, and reducing harmful cholesterol.
Vitamin E (Biotin), Protects the skin from ultraviolet radiation and early signs of aging, and supports the immune system.
Vitamin A, Responsible for visual health, enhances fertility in both males and females, aids the body in resisting infections, maintains healthy bones and teeth, and acts as a potent antioxidant.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Responsible for oxidizing sugar to convert it into energy to ensure smooth functioning of vital organs such as the heart, brain, lungs, and kidneys. It helps improve memory, focus, strengthens nerves, and reduces stress.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Beneficial for the body’s metabolism, essential for producing red blood cells, and helps protect the nervous system. Its deficiency in children can hinder their normal growth.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin), lowers cholesterol levels in the blood and inhibits its accumulation in the liver and arteries. It prevents arteriosclerosis, increases muscle strength, reduces muscle and joint pain, balances hormone levels in the body, and acts as an antidepressant.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid), Helps balance sodium and potassium levels in the blood, plays a role in reducing cholesterol levels, and prevents hair from turning gray (graying hair), as well as eluding hair loss. It is widely used in cosmetic treatments, and its benefits are well-known to beauty specialists.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Plays a major role in producing antibodies needed to fight various diseases, helps maintain the brain’s healthy functions, and acts as an assistant to enzymes involved in dopamine (happiness hormone) and serotonin (which plays a role in improving mood and sleep) production, ensuring their correct composition and availability in the brain.
Vitamin K, Essential for blood clotting, bone health, and maintaining healthy blood vessels.