Raw honey has a cooling nature, thus clearing heat—meaning it can relieve coughs and reduce internal heat.
Processed honey has a warming nature, thereby tonifying the middle qi. After processing, honey can replenish the middle qi. When our middle qi is strong, many issues resolve themselves.
Its soft and moisturizing properties alleviate dryness and resolve constipation;
It harmonizes the middle and complements all medicines, functioning similarly to licorice. Many large honey pills are made using honey;
Its sweet and balanced nature detoxifies. Honey neutralizes toxins and counteracts alcohol, making it beneficial for liver health.
How to Store Honey at Home
Generally, refrigeration isn't necessary—though chilling is perfectly fine. Room temperature is adequate, but avoid direct sunlight as honey ferments easily. Always store it tightly sealed in glass or ceramic containers.
Honey possesses several characteristics: it readily dilutes if not sealed, becoming increasingly runny over time. Additionally, it readily absorbs odors, much like tea leaves. Therefore, it must be tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place.
Honey's Healthy Pairings
1. Honey Lemon
We know many beverages contain unhealthy ingredients. Using fresh lemon slices can be problematic because lemon's acidity can irritate the stomach. Honey neutralizes this acidity, creating a sweet and sour taste. This simple recipe makes an excellent beverage for children.
2. Honey Ginger
Combining ginger juice with honey helps replenish vital energy and regulate bodily functions, offering significant benefits especially for middle-aged and elderly individuals. To prepare, crush ginger, steep it, then strain to extract the juice. Mix this ginger juice with honey to create a honey-ginger drink. It can be swallowed directly, but the most effective method is sublingual administration.
3. Honey and White Radish
During this season, people are prone to coughing and wheezing. Here's a folk remedy: soak white radish in honey, which is effective for coughs. Cut the radish into small cubes, place them in a jar, and cover with honey. After a week, consume a small amount daily, eating both the radish and honey together. This is especially suitable for preventing and treating coughs and wheezing in autumn and winter.
4. Honey with Royal Jelly
Mix 1 part royal jelly with 99 parts honey to create a 1% royal jelly honey solution. Dilute this with 8 parts water and apply to the face, hands, and feet. This mixture not only beautifies and nourishes the skin but also prevents winter chapping and cracks on hands and feet, and can even treat frostbite. Royal jelly requires refrigeration and should be prepared fresh whenever possible.
5. Honey-Garlic
Effective against various ailments, particularly beneficial for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease patients. It also offers health preservation benefits. Long-term moderate consumption helps unclog blood vessels, prevent blood clots, and combat cancer.
Honey-Soaked Garlic
1. Freshly harvested garlic is optimal. For health preservation, tender garlic is preferred for its superior taste. Peel off the white outer skin or separate into cloves, then soak in cold water for 1-2 days, changing the water midway to remove bitterness.
2. Drain the soaked garlic, add a small amount of salt, and cure for one day. Drain again and transfer to a wide-mouth jar, leaving some space at the top.
3. Select single-flower honey suited to your needs. Some honeys offer unique benefits—for instance, locust honey supports cardiovascular health.
4. Ensure the honey is pure and meets all national honey standards. Pour qualified honey into the garlic jar, mix thoroughly until the garlic is fully submerged. Seal the jar tightly and let it steep for 1-2 months. Recommended daily intake for adults is 5-10 grams (2-3 cloves).
How to Select Quality Honey
As the old saying goes, "Sugar is sweet, but honey is sweeter." Genuine honey should carry a natural floral aroma and possess high sweetness.
When selecting honey, first examine its color and luster. Bright, translucent honey is superior; adulterated honey often appears unnaturally glossy.
Honey may sometimes crystallize. Crystallization doesn't affect quality, but its characteristics can reveal authenticity. Take a crystal and place it in your hand. Body heat will cause it to melt naturally. Fake crystals won't crumble or dissolve when rubbed between fingers.