Most people keep honey in their cupboards to add to their tea or drizzle on toast, but honey is surprisingly versatile. With over 300 varieties around the world, honey can function as a sweetener, preservative, or even as a holistic health aid.

Sweet and Savory Uses for Honey

Honey has high fructose but low glucose levels, making it relatively low glycemic index means of sweetening your food. Most recipes can swap sugar with honey, but keep in mind that honey has a higher water content and is sweeter per portion than sugar. As a rule of thumb, swap 1 cup of sugar with a half cup of honey, and subtract a quarter cup of liquid for every cup of honey.

A little creativity takes honey a long way. Some delicious uses include:

• As a flavor and moisture addition in marinades
• Drizzle on charcuterie spreads, seeds, and granola
• Sweeten kombucha, cocktails, or other drinks for more complex flavors
• Whipped honey for spreads on pastries and toast

Honey Health and Beauty Aids

There are many health benefits associated with honey. Packed full of nutrients and antioxidants, honey can be used as an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory holistic medicine for burns and wounds. When added to tea, lozenges, or lollipops, honey can help suppress coughing symptoms without the side effects of common cough medicine.

Similarly, the antiseptic and antioxidant properties of raw honey can assist with beauty concerns such as scars, acne, dry skin, and more. It can also boost collagen production, restore skin’s moisture, and gently exfoliate skin. Try incorporating honey into your recipes for face washes, masks, bath soaks, and shampoos for a soothing and rejuvenating effect.