Honey is one of the oldest natural remedies known to humankind. For thousands of years, it’s been used not just as a sweetener, but as a healing food. But according to natural health educator Barbara O’Neill, many people are missing out on honey’s full medicinal potential—simply because they’re using it the wrong way.
Whether you drizzle it into hot tea or bake it into your favorite muffins, you might be destroying some of the very properties that make honey so powerful. In this article, we’ll explore how to use honey correctly for health benefits, based on traditional wisdom and scientific insights—so you can truly make honey a part of your wellness routine.
Why Honey Deserves a Second Look
Real honey—especially raw, unfiltered honey—contains far more than just natural sugars. It’s rich in:
- Enzymes
- Antioxidants
- Amino acids
- Vitamins and minerals
- Naturally occurring hydrogen peroxide
These compounds work together to support your immune system, digestion, skin health, and more. But when honey is overheated or overly processed, many of these beneficial elements are destroyed.
That’s why Barbara O’Neill emphasizes one key point: for honey to be medicinal, it must be raw and used gently.
The Common Mistake: Heating Honey Too Much
The most common way people reduce honey’s health benefits is by adding it to boiling liquids—like hot tea or oatmeal. While this may taste great, it often defeats the purpose if you’re using honey for its healing effects.
What happens when you heat honey too much?
- Enzymes like diastase and invertase break down
- Antioxidant content decreases
- Naturally occurring antibacterial compounds are neutralized
Studies suggest that heating honey above 104°F (40°C) begins to degrade its active compounds. Boiling water is around 212°F (100°C)—more than enough to eliminate most of honey’s healing potential.
Better option: Let your tea or water cool slightly before adding honey, or use it raw in cold recipes like dressings, smoothies, or even directly off the spoon.
5 Ways to Use Honey Medicinally (the Right Way)
Let’s dive into practical and safe ways to use honey for health, all of which respect its delicate, beneficial properties.
1. Soothe a Scratchy Throat or Cough
Raw honey is a traditional remedy for sore throats—and for good reason. Research published by the Mayo Clinic and other institutions suggests that honey may help:
- Coat the throat and ease irritation
- Reduce nighttime coughing
- Support restful sleep
How to use it:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of raw honey with warm (not hot) lemon water
- Or take 1 teaspoon directly before bed to ease coughing
Note: Honey should not be given to children under 1 year of age due to the risk of infant botulism.
2. Support Digestion Naturally
Honey contains enzymes and prebiotics that may gently support gut health. Barbara O’Neill recommends honey in moderation to:
- Ease occasional constipation
- Help calm an upset stomach
- Promote the growth of good gut bacteria
Try this: Mix 1 teaspoon of honey with a bit of fresh ginger juice or apple cider vinegar in warm water (not hot) as a morning tonic.
3. Boost Immune Health with a Honey-Garlic Tonic
Honey is a natural antimicrobial agent. When combined with immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, it can create a powerful natural remedy.
Simple recipe:
- Chop 1 head of garlic and place in a clean jar
- Cover with raw honey and let sit for 1–2 weeks
- Take 1 teaspoon daily during cold season (raw and unheated)
While this might not sound delicious, many find it surprisingly effective.
4. Use It as a Natural Skin Remedy
Raw honey is gentle yet effective for skin thanks to its antibacterial and moisturizing properties. It’s often used in:
- Face masks for acne-prone or dry skin
- Spot treatments for minor blemishes
- Healing salves for minor cuts and scrapes
Skin care tip: Apply a thin layer of raw honey directly to clean skin, leave for 10–15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. You can mix it with oats, aloe vera, or yogurt for added benefits.
5. As a Natural Energy Booster
Because honey contains natural sugars along with trace minerals and antioxidants, it can provide a steady boost of energy without a harsh crash.
Instead of a sugary snack or energy drink, try:
- A spoonful of honey with nut butter
- Adding raw honey to a smoothie or a bowl of fruit and yogurt
This is especially helpful before a workout or during a mid-afternoon slump.
How to Choose the Right Honey
Not all honey is created equal. To get the most out of honey’s healing potential, look for:
- Raw and unfiltered labels
- Local honey (often contains local pollens that may support seasonal allergy tolerance)
- Cloudy appearance (a sign it hasn’t been overly processed)
- Glass jar packaging if possible, to reduce plastic contact
Avoid products labeled “honey blend” or with added corn syrup or preservatives.
Is Honey Safe for Everyone?
Honey is generally safe for most people when used in moderation. However:
- It’s still a sugar and should be used thoughtfully, especially for people with blood sugar concerns
- It should not be given to infants under 12 months
- If you have a bee pollen allergy, consult your doctor before using raw honey
As Barbara O’Neill advises, “Natural doesn’t always mean harmless—use with awareness and respect.”
Final Thoughts
Honey can be far more than a sweet treat—it can be a gentle, natural support for your immune system, digestion, skin, and more. But to truly experience its benefits, it’s important to treat honey like the living food it is.
Skip the boiling water, choose raw and local varieties, and try some of the practical tips above. Whether you’re calming a cough or caring for your skin, honey can be a beautiful ally—when used with care.
Did you learn something new about using honey? Comment your favorite tip below or share this with someone who loves natural remedies!
Explore more wellness tips inspired by Barbara O’Neill on our site.
*Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making health changes.
