What Science Says
Is honey good for us, can it speed up recovery if we are sick or injured? Honey is often praised for a number of health benefits - from soothing a sore throat and helping us fall asleep to healing wounds and reducing risk factors for diabetes and heart disease. Honey's acidity has the potential to prevent bacterial growth, while its density and stickiness create osmotic pressure (much like quicksand) that limits bacteria. Other compounds in honey contribute to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. But do the claims about honey for certain health problems and injuries match science?