RAW HONEY

What is raw honey?

Raw honey is honey in its natural state, which has not been processed or pasteurized. This means it has not been heated to high temperatures or heavily filtered, preserving most of its nutrients and properties. Raw honey is directly extracted from bee hives and is found in its purest form, retaining pollen, wax, enzymes, minerals, and vitamins that can be lost in the commercial honey pasteurization and filtering process.

Properties of Raw Honey

Antioxidants:
Raw honey is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which help combat cellular damage caused by free radicals, protecting the body from premature aging and chronic diseases.
Antibacterial and antimicrobial properties:
Due to compounds like hydrogen peroxide and other antioxidants, raw honey has antibacterial capabilities and helps prevent infections. It is used in home remedies for sore throats or superficial wounds.
Natural source of energy:
Raw honey contains natural sugars like glucose and fructose, providing a quick energy boost without the negative effects of refined sugars.
Anti-inflammatory properties:
It has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce internal and external inflammation, being useful for conditions like arthritis or muscle pain.
Digestive benefits:
The pollen and enzymes present in raw honey can improve digestion, relieve digestive issues, and balance intestinal microbiota.
Supports the immune system:
The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, along with nutrients like vitamins B and C, help strengthen the immune system.
Improves skin health:
Its topical use in facial masks or to treat burns and minor wounds is effective due to its antibacterial and moisturizing properties.

Countries producing Raw Honey

Raw honey is produced in many parts of the world, mainly in areas with a rich biodiversity of flowers and plants. Some of the main producers include:

New Zealand: Famous for its manuka honey, especially valued for its medicinal properties.
Mexico: Significant production of raw honey, including flower honey, agave honey, and lemon honey.
Spain: Produces raw honey of different varieties, especially rosemary, chestnut, heather, and flower honey.
Argentina: Exports large quantities of raw honey, mainly from flowers and the countryside.
United States: Is a major producer, especially of clover, acacia, and other flower raw honey.
China: Also one of the largest producers of raw honey, with an extensive variety of types according to local flora.

How can you prepare and consume raw honey?

Raw honey is quite versatile and can be consumed in many different ways:

Directly: You can take a spoonful of raw honey to enjoy its immediate benefits, especially to soothe the throat or provide a natural energy boost.
In drinks: Add raw honey to teas, infusions, or lemonades to naturally sweeten them, avoiding the use of refined sugars.
In smoothies: Mix raw honey into your smoothies to add a sweet touch and benefit from its nutrients.
In desserts: Use raw honey as a sweetener in baking recipes, like cookies, cakes, or yogurt.
In cooking: Raw honey can also be used in sauces and dressings, marinating meats, or preparing salads.