Honey is something that most people hardly give any thought to. Most people are used to using various types of sugar as a sweetener and, due in part to honey’s high cost in comparison to white sugar, honey is seen as more of a luxury sweetener. But honey doesn’t have to be expensive, and when purchased in bulk it can be quite reasonably priced. A 5-gallon bucket of honey is easy to store and can last an average household for at least a couple of years. Here are seven good reasons that every household should have a stockpile of honey on hand.
1. Stays Good Indefinitely
As long as honey is kept free from outside moisture it will keep indefinitely. The world’s oldest honey was discovered a few years ago in pyramids in Egypt and, despite being 3,000 years old, was still perfectly edible. Don’t worry if it crystallizes and gets thick, it’s still good.
2. Quick and Easy Energy
If you’re in need of a quick pick me up, eating a spoonful of honey will provide you with plenty of energy.
3. Use as a First Aid Salve
Honey is often used as a salve to treat minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. Thanks to honey’s anti-microbial properties, wounds treated with honey often heal faster than those that remain untreated. Honey can also be used to treat rashes and mild cases of acne or psoriasis.
4. Strengthens the Immune System and Fight Off Illness
Honey is full of antioxidants and anti-bacterial and anti-microbial compounds that can help build up your immune system and keep you from getting sick.
5. Soothes Sore Throats and Coughs
Honey can be taken by itself to ease throat irritation, or it can be dissolved in hot water or hot tea, with or without lemon, to help ease sore throats.
6. Helps Overcome Allergies
Consumption of locally-sourced honey can help your body overcome allergic reactions to local pollens.
7. Fall Asleep Easier
A glass of warm milk with honey is a proven folk remedy to help people fall asleep.