SUBJECT
Raw honey goes through various states; it is produced in a liquid state
and after harvesting, it transitions to a solid or crystallized state.
The volatile compounds of honey are its gaseous state
and are related to its floral source.
Inside the beehive, honey is in a liquid state. To replicate this state, you should store it in a dark, warm cupboard. This will ensure it maintains its liquid and pourable consistency. You can also decrystallize honey by heating it in a bain-marie, without exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
It is a spontaneous process; at 14 degrees Celsius, honey crystallizes rapidly. This is a good indication of raw honey without additives or preservatives, thus preserving its flavor and quality. The faster the crystallization occurs, the creamier the honey's texture will be.
Honey's tendency to crystallize depends on its glucose content and moisture level; the higher the humidity, the lower the tendency to crystallize.
The volatile profile represents a chemical fingerprint in monofloral honey, as the floral source determines the nectar, its botanical and geographical origin, its phenolic compounds, and medicinal properties. Thus, the determination of its volatile compounds has been used to differentiate different types of honey according to their botanical and geographical origin.
HOW TO USE
Honey has the virtue of low moisture and fights microbes, which is why it is not recommended to refrigerate honey, as the humidity in the refrigerator can create an environment conducive to bacteria.
To keep honey safe from contamination, make sure to use clean and dry utensils. Ideally, use wooden utensils, as they do not affect the natural and authentic flavor of honey.
The most important thing is to store raw honey in a temperate and dark place, replicating the conditions of the hive.
Crystallized honey
Due to its chemical composition, honey is a solution with a high sugar content, dissolved in a small amount of water (80% sugar in only 18% water).
The rate of crystal formation depends on several factors: storage time, type of container, and ambient temperature.
For example, plastic containers allow water to escape from the honey, which accelerates crystallization.
Storage at 14 degrees Celsius favors crystal formation.
Abrupt movement of the container or the presence of foreign particles in the honey also cause crystals to form.
To warm in a double boiler, place the amount of honey you are going to consume in a glass container, and put this container in a pot with hot water.
In this process, the honey does not receive heat directly, but rather slowly and through the movement of the water surrounding the container.
Do not exceed 40 degrees Celsius when restoring crystallized honey, as this can affect its enzymes and nutrients.
If you don't have a thermometer, insert your finger until you can withstand the heat without burning yourself; this is the ideal temperature that raw honey can tolerate.
What are the medicinal properties of honey?
Raw honey is an anti-cancer agent and helps prevent heart disease. It contains high levels of antioxidants that combat oxidative stress and inflammation, which are at the root of many cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
Raw honey concentrates a greater quantity and richness of antioxidant elements, including: flavonoids, phenols, enzymes, and similar organic acids.
It helps dilate the arteries of the heart, increasing blood flow.
It prevents the formation of blood clots.
Honey is a healthy option to strengthen your teeth, thanks to its antioxidants. Honey contains folic acid, which makes it a natural option to combat bacteria that cause cavities.
It also has anti-inflammatory properties, helps relieve gum pain, and reduces the risk of periodontal diseases.
It improves the feeling of freshness in the mouth, combating bad breath.
Raw honey counteracts pollen allergies. It is known to prevent infections, provide natural relief, and boost overall immunity. Its ability to prevent allergies is based on immunotherapy, which is why it is very important to consume local raw honey.
One spoonful of honey a day can act as a vaccine against allergies. Eating honey in high doses can improve allergy symptoms in eight weeks.
The type of raw honey is key, as pasteurized honey does not contain pollen.
Raw honey aids in the production of gastric acid, which is necessary for digestion and nutrient absorption. It also helps alleviate indigestion and acid reflux by reducing inflammation and protecting the stomach lining. It is also a natural source of probiotics, which help regulate intestinal transit and maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive system.
Honey is a natural sweetener that contains no artificial additives or preservatives, making it a healthier option than refined sugar.
Moreover, it combats constipation. As a probiotic food with high fiber content, it acts as a nutrient for the human microbiota and improves the balance of these microorganisms.
More nutritious than sugar and more energetic than caffeine. Honey is considered a great natural energy provider, thanks to its high levels of carbohydrates. Primary fuel that we use to obtain energy.
It provides energy comparable to caffeine, but longer-lasting and without the downsides of coffee.
It is the perfect fuel for running, providing an easily absorbed energy supply, which makes it ideal for starting the morning with energy and nourishment before training and a source of energy after exercise.
Helps relieve pain and inflammation in the body. Also, pollen, royal jelly, and propolis are rich in antioxidants and other compounds that can help reduce inflammation and improve health.
It is an ideal topical therapeutic agent because it does not adhere to the wound surface. In addition to its natural antibacterial action against most infected wounds, it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and debridement activity.
It promotes the formation of granulation tissue by creating a moist environment.
It is important to clean the wound and impregnate it with honey, then bandage it to maintain warmth and moisture, creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria.
