At a time when we only need to turn on the TV to hear the side affects associated with this drug or that one, it is no wonder that people are turning back to gentler healing remedies and alternative medicines. Certainly, western medicine has it's place in times of trauma. However, perhaps many of us could agree it's better for our health to work on the side of prevention of illness and disease.

One of the oldest remedies, of which western society is unaware. is honey. A recent scientific study showed that honey worked well as a wound dressing. Honey not only cleared existing infection, but protected the wound from additional infection. Besides honey's anti-inflamitorial effects, it reduced scaring, speeded healing and stimulated growth. Scientists at the University of Bonn have been experiencing these positive results from the medical use of honey. Even when dealing with multi-resistant bacteria many times healed within just a few weeks.

Healing wounds with honey goes back to the ancient Egyptians. It was used on soldiers wounds as early as the last two world wars. It was phased out in preference to the rise of the use of new antibiotics. However, as we are faced with the "new germs" that seem to be resistant to any chemical antibiotic, perhaps it's time to take another look at this old remedy.

In addition, honey can be used to treat digestive problems, stomach ulcers and gastroenteritis. It's also a fast remedy for athletes foot. But use raw honey, organic if it is available as the heating during manufacturing destroy nutrients and enzymes.

Other Benefits of Honey

Affective against coughs with no side effects or worries about administering it to children.

Mixed with ground almonds, it makes a great facial scrub.

For dry patches on skin: combine 1 tsp. honey with 1 tsp. olive oil and ½ tsp. lemon juice. Apply to skin and wash off after 15 minutes.

For shiny hair: Mix 1 tsp. honey with 4 cups water and use as a conditioner.

Use as a lip balm. It's anti-bacterial qualities will heal chapped lips.

Use on acne, again because of it's anti-bacterial effect.

As a mouthwash, mix 1 tsp. honey with 1 cup warm water. It kills germs.

Although sweeter than table sugar, honey is low on the Glycemic Index because it is gradually absorbed into the blood stream.

The natural minerals and vitamins in honey help metabolize the "bad" cholesterol in our bodies.

And, there is nothing better than hot cornbread, right out of the oven, slathered in honey.