White Honey: What Are The Health Benefits And Side Effects Of Consuming It?

Honey is a beloved staple all over the world. History shows that humans have used it for medicinal purposes throughout history. It is a  natural sweetener, helps in soothing the throat and works as an immunity booster. But what then is white honey and what are the health benefits of eating it? Keep reading to learn more.

What is white honey?

White honey is also called raw honey because it comes directly from the beehive. This means that it does not go through any heating process to extract honey.

The heating process kills off some beneficial antioxidants and bacteria, and this is why white honey is considered more valuable than dark coloured/ordinary honey.

Flowers known to produce white honey include sedge, alfalfa and white clover. Note that white honey is not available in every season and from every flower.

Is white honey the same as raw honey?

Yes, white honey is essentially raw untreated honey. They collect the honey as a liquid and it naturally crystallizes to a smooth, creamy white with a butter-like texture. It is beneficial to note that when any variety of honey crystallizes, it becomes cloudy and lighter, or almost white in color. Of course this does not make it white honey.

Is White Honey Safe for consumption?

Yes, white honey is perfectly safe for consumption, usually without serious side effects. However it is not hundred percent risk free because of its microbial content. It can trigger botulism, a severe disease that can lead to paralysis. Avoid giving children, especially under the age of 1 year, any raw, white or other honey. Also, if you have a weak immune system, there is more risk of getting sick from white honey. In adults, it also causes symptoms similar to nausea, including food poisoning, fever and vomiting. Quickly visit your physician if you feel any of these signs after consuming white honey.

Health Benefits of White Honey

Here are more reasons to love white honey:

• Aids digestion: White honey can help you in treating digestive issues such as diarrhea and ulcers. It is known to improve stomach health and thus supports digestion. We recommend taking 1 to 2 teaspoons of white or raw honey on an empty stomach for the best results.
• Potent antioxidant source: Raw honey is a reservoir for compounds and antioxidants called flavonoids and phenolic. These antioxidants help your body fight free radicals, protecting it from cell damage. Free radicals contribute to the aging process and can also increase the risk of conditions such as cancer and heart disease.
• Aids wound healing and skin enhancement: White honey contains phytonutrients. This means it can be used to enhance skin and heal skin wounds. You can use it as an ingredient in beauty products too. It has the ability to destroy harmful bacteria and fungus.
• Relieves cough: Raw honey works well used as a medicine for cough and cold. It also helps to relieve a sore throat. All you need to do is drink the honey with lemon in hot tea, or you can consume it mixed with warm water.

Does white honey expire?

It does, but under certain conditions. White honey contains gluconic acid which gives honey a slightly acidic pH level which is a barrier to microbial growth. Generally, honey doesn't go bad. However, it can spoil if it's contaminated or incorrectly stored. If your honey is sporting visible mold, or if it smells fermented or "off," then it's time to trash it.

Summary 

White honey is a handy treat. Not only is it healthy but it is also versatile in its uses. There are side effects that can come up during consumption but if you made it this far then you probably know what they are and what could have caused them. The bottomline is that white honey is great and we all should take advantage of that.