ABOUT US
We did not start out with the goal of being purveyors of honey. As professional artists working with the medium of beeswax we were primarily interested in learning more about its properties, and how it is created. We began back in 2005 with two hives and a few years later, before we knew it, we had over 20 colonies.
Our fascination and love for the honeybee has only grown stronger with the passing of each season. We have developed a bit of an obsession for doing all we can to educate our community and provide the best possible habitat for these very important creatures.
It turns out that the North Olympic Peninsula is a fantastic place to keep bees. Specifically the dryer than normal Rainshadow of the Sequim Prairie. Not to paint the picture that it is easy work by any means. The honeybee is up against a list of adversities that grows each year.
So we encourage all to learn more about the honeybee and the wonderful benefits pure local raw honey has to offer.
The benifits of Raw Honey
1. A good source of antioxidants
Raw honey contains an array of plant chemicals that act as antioxidants. Some types of honey have as many antioxidants as fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants help to protect your body from cell damage due to free radicals.
Free radicals contribute to the aging process and may also contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Research showsTrusted Source that antioxidant compounds in raw honey called polyphenols have anti-inflammatory effects that could be beneficial in protecting against a number of conditions associated with oxidative stress.
The raw version of honey can also contain bee pollen and bee propolis, which may have added benefits. A 2017 review of studiesTrusted Source suggested that raw honey may have potential protective effects for the respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and nervous systems, and even has potential in cancer treatment.
2. Raw honey nutrition
Raw honey’s nutrition content varies by its origin and other factors. Generally, one tablespoon or 21 grams of raw honey containsTrusted Source 64 calories and 17 grams of sugar. Raw honey also containsTrusted Source smaller amounts of the following micronutrients (or, vitamins and minerals):
- calcium
- magnesium
- manganese
- niacin
- pantothenic acid
- phosphorous
- potassium
- riboflavin
- zinc
In addition, raw honey is a source of varying amounts of amino acids, enzymes, and other beneficial compounds.
3. Antibacterial and antifungal properties
ResearchTrusted Source has shown that the propolis in raw honey has antifungal and antibacterial propertiesTrusted Source.
The potential for both internal and topical treatments using raw honey is significant. Honey’s effectiveness as an antibacterial or antifungal varies depending on the honey, but some varieties are being studied for specific therapeutic uses such as against Candida-associated infections.
4. Heals wounds
A 2018 review of studies found that honey has antimicrobial properties. A 2017 review of studiesTrusted Source also suggested that honey, propolis, and royal jelly may have potential health benefits for microbial inhibition and wound healing.
Keep in mind that the honey used in research settings is medical grade, meaning it’s inspected and sterile. It’s not a good idea to treat cuts with honey you buy from a store. Always speak with your doctor before using honey for any medical purposes.
5. Phytonutrient powerhouse
Phytonutrients are compounds found in plants that help protect the plant from harm. For example, some keep insects away or shield the plant from ultraviolet radiation.
The phytonutrients in honey are responsibleTrusted Source for its antioxidant properties, as well as its antibacterial and antifungal power. They’re also thought to be the reason raw honey has shown immune-boosting and anticancer benefits. Heavy processing in regular honey can destroy these valuable nutrients.
6. Help for digestive issues
Honey is sometimes used to treat digestive issues such as diarrhea, though research to show that it works is limited. It may have potential as a treatment for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, though, a common cause of stomach ulcers.
It also contains beneficial prebiotics
7. Soothe a sore throat and cough
Honey is an old sore throat remedy that soothes the ache and can help with coughs. Add it to hot tea with lemon when a cold virus hits.
Though more research is needed, a 2021 review of studiesTrusted Source suggested that honey could be superior to other forms of care for the improvement of upper respiratory tract infections.
A 2016 study also suggested that the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are effective for helping a sore throat.
8. Brain benefits
There may even be some cognitive benefits to raw honey. The polyphenols in honey may be able to counterTrusted Source inflammation in the hippocampus, the part of the brain involved in memory.
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects can benefit many parts of the body, including brain health.