Honey known as madhu in ayurvedic scriptures is one of the most important medicines used in ayurveda. Pure Honey in ayurveda is used for both internal and external applications. It is mainly used for the treatment of eye diseases, cough, thirst, phlegm, hiccups, blood in vomit, leprosy, diabetes, obesity, worm infestation, vomiting, asthma, diarrhoea and healing wounds. It is also used as a natural preservative and sweetener in many ayurvedic preparations.
Natural benefits and curative properties — what the ancient ayurvedic texts say for pure honey
Honey is one of the finest sources of heat and energy. Energy is generated mainly by the carbohydrate foods, and honey is one of the most easily digested forms of carbohydrates. It enters directly into the bloodstream because of its dextrin content, and this provides almost instantaneous energy.
Traditionally, according to the texts of ayurveda, honey is a boon to those with weak digestion. The texts state that all the organs in the body respond favorably when honey is eaten. Honey is considered as an all-purpose medicine for all types of diseases.
The texts also state that a spoon of fresh honey, mixed with the juice of half a lemon in a glass of lukewarm water and taken first thing in the morning, is an effective remedy for constipation and hyperacidity. Fasting on this honey-lemon juice water is highly beneficial in the treatment of obesity without loss of energy and appetite.
Honey For Heart
Honey is easily digested and assimilated; it is the best sweet food, as it does not cause flatulence and can prevent it to a certain extent, promoting the activity of the bowels. It can be easily added to the five meals a day, and the texts of ayurveda recommended it in cases of arteriosclerosis and weak hearts.
As it would be unwise to leave such a hard-working organ as the heart without food over the long hours of the night, the ancient texts recommend taking, before going to bed, a glass of water with honey and lemon juice in it, and also to take it when awakening at night. Traditional ayurvedic experts recommend honey for cardiac pain and palpitation of the heart.
Honey For Anemia
Honey is remarkable in building hemoglobin in the body, which is largely due to the iron, copper and manganese contained in it. The ancient texts declare it beneficial in the treatment of anemia, as it helps maintain the right balance of hemoglobin and red blood corpuscles.
Honey For Skin
The texts of ayurveda also describe how honey applied externally is considered useful in the treatment of wounds and sores. Honey, they state, soothes pain, acts as an antiseptic, hastens healing and is especially effective in curing burns and carbuncles.
Honey For Cough
The texts of ayurveda also say the use of honey is highly beneficial in the treatment of cough. As a demulcent or soothing agent, it produces a soothing effect on the inflammed mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract and relieves cough and symptoms like difficulty in swallowing. For the same reason, it is used in the manufacture of various cough mixtures. Honey gargles are also useful in cough.
Honey For Eyes
Honey has a long history of ayurvedic use for various eye ailments. Applied daily in the eyes, it improves the eyesight. It is very useful in the treatment of itching of the eyes.
How to test honey for purity?
- Will not spread quickly when put into water.
- Will settle at the bottom when put into water.
- It tends not to be sticky if you rub it between your fingers. It is pure honey.