Top 15 Surprising Health Benefits of Honey in Nigeria
Honey has been used both as a food and natural medicine in Nigeria for centuries. This sweet nectar from bees offers an astonishing array of health benefits that modern research is now uncovering. Nigerian honey contains potent plant chemicals from local flora that confer unique therapeutic properties. From wound healing to fighting infections, honey provides surprising health perks that make it integral to Nigerian traditional wellness practices.InformationGuideNigeria
In this article, we will provide some of the surprising health benefits of using honey in Nigeria.
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Live, Study and Work in Canada. No Payment is Required! Hurry Now click here to Apply >> Immigrate to CanadaThe Top 15 Surprising Health Benefits of Honey in Nigeria Are:
1. Antimicrobial Effects
First and foremost, raw unprocessed Nigerian honey demonstrates powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral effects against disease-causing pathogens. Bees incorporate phytochemicals from plants like moringa and garlic into honey, making it antimicrobial. These phytochemicals damage microbial cell walls and inhibit growth. Also, a surprising health benefit of using honey is that it limits drug-resistant bacteria like MRSA. Applying honey on wounds prevents infection locally.Top 15 Surprising Health Benefits of Honey in Nigeria
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2. Wound and Burn Healing
Furthermore, topically applying honey accelerates the healing of wounds, burns, and ulcers by stimulating new tissue growth. The glucose oxidase enzyme in honey releases low levels of hydrogen peroxide which acts as an antiseptic while antibacterial properties prevent infection. The health benefit of honey is that it also provides a moist healing environment. Clinical studies show honey dressings heal wounds faster compared to conventional treatments.
3. Cough and Sore Throat Relief
Additionally, another health benefit of using honey is that it helps coat and soothes an irritated sore throat, providing quick cough and cold symptom relief. It also fights the bacteria and viruses causing the infection with its antimicrobial effects. One study found honey reduced nighttime coughing and improved sleep quality more than common cough medication. Honey adds sweet relief without side effects.
4. Digestive Health
Moreover, the enzymes, phytonutrients, and antimicrobial effects of raw honey promote gastrointestinal wellness in several ways. Honey reduces gut inflammation, balances gut bacteria, and may protect against stomach ulcers caused by H. pylori bacteria. Honey also eases nausea, gas, bloating, and constipation issues when consumed daily.15 Best Cooking Methods to Preserve Nutrients
5. Allergy Relief
Also, local raw honey can alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms for some when taken regularly. Bees incorporate pollen into honey, which may act as an allergen immunotherapy when consumed. The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in honey also combat inflammation underlying allergy responses like runny nose and itchy eyes. Doses of about 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon daily may provide allergy relief.
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6. Diabetes Aid
In addition, preliminary evidence suggests that one of the health benefits of using raw honey includes a modest lowering of blood sugar levels and hemoglobin A1C in diabetics. Honey increases insulin secretion and improves blood glucose uptake into tissues. The antioxidants like catalase and phenolics in honey also protect insulin-producing cells in the pancreas from oxidative damage. However, moderation is key for optimal effect.
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Live, Study and Work in Canada. No Payment is Required! Hurry Now click here to Apply >> Immigrate to Canada7. Energy Boost
Furthermore, another health benefit of using honey is that it offers a healthier energy boost compared to sugar. Its unique carbohydrate composition provides readily absorbed glucose for quick energy along with fructose for sustained energy release. Honey also enhances blood glucose uptake. Athletes favor honey for performance enhancement and glycogen replenishment. Just 1 or 2 teaspoons of honey in warm water, tea, or yogurt provide an energy kick.15 Best Black Coffee in Nigeria
8. Heart Health
Moreover, honey protects heart health by reducing risk factors like hypertension, obesity, cholesterol, and triglycerides. The antioxidants prevent LDL cholesterol oxidation implicated in clogged arteries and heart attacks. Honey lowers C-reactive protein linked to heart disease. Overall, honey reduces cardiovascular disease risk and mortality.105 Good Morning My Love Messages
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9. Skin Health
Additionally, honey nourishes the skin in numerous ways to enhance beauty and youthfulness. Its antioxidants neutralize skin-aging free radicals caused by pollution, sun, and toxins. Honey is also antimicrobial, preventing acne-causing bacteria. It moisturizes skin to keep it supple and aids in faster healing. Using honey masks and creams improves skin health.
10. Sleep Aid
Also, consuming a spoonful of honey before bedtime may promote deeper, better-quality sleep as it restocks the liver’s glycogen to prevent blood sugar drops. Honey also has the health benefit of helping to calm effect linked to its antioxidant content and inflammation reduction. The insulin boost helps tryptophan enter the brain for melatonin synthesis. This aids regular sleep patterns.200 Romantic Message for Her
11. Immunity Boost
In addition, traditional Nigerian wellness practices use honey daily to strengthen immunity against common infections. Honey elevates white blood cell count and antioxidant levels which enhances immune response. Manuka honey boosts cytokine production which activates T-cells against viruses. Honey also reduces seasonal allergy symptoms that suppress immunity.
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12. Weight Loss
Furthermore, honey aids weight management by moderating appetite, enhancing fat metabolism, and lowering insulin resistance. The sweet taste and glucose content curb hunger and cravings. Antioxidants also improve insulin sensitivity and protect against fatty liver disease for healthier weight regulation over time.
13. Memory and Brain Function
Moreover, early research indicates raw honey may support memory retention and brain health as we age. It prevents cognitive decline by countering oxidative stress that damages brain cells. Honey also lowers inflammation implicated in neurodegenerative disease. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity help maintain memory, thinking, and learning.NYSC Portal
14. Cancer Prevention
Additionally, studies reveal the phenolic compounds in raw honey exhibit anti-cancer properties such as cell cycle arrest and programmed cell death in skin, breast, endometrial, and colorectal cancer cells. Honey paired with anti-cancer drugs may also improve efficacy. More human research is needed, but findings suggest protective effects.
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15. Healing Properties
Finally, honey has traditionally been valued in Nigerian folk medicine for its incredible healing effects on burns, wounds, infections, coughs, skin conditions, stomach ailments, and more. Its antioxidant content combats inflammation underlying many illnesses while its antimicrobial properties fight infection. Overall, honey boosts integrative healing.JAMB Portal
Conclusion
In conclusion, locally produced, raw, unprocessed honey confers remarkable scientifically-proven health and therapeutic benefits that make it an invaluable traditional healing food in Nigeria. From antimicrobial properties to antioxidant effects, honey offers a myriad of protective and restorative effects that optimize wellness holistically. Consuming moderate amounts may maximize honey’s diverse health perks.
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