Natural sweeteners have been used since the dawn of time and honey stands out not only for its sweet taste but also for its impressive array of health benefits. Adding honey to your tea is a simple yet effective way to boost your daily wellness routine. Read on to learn more about 7 benefits of adding honey to your tea that you may not know about!
Honey is rich in antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Honey is rich in antioxidants, particularly phenolic compounds and flavonoids. When added to tea (like matcha!) honey can significantly boost the beverage's antioxidant content, providing extra protection against cellular damage.
Studies show that regular consumption of antioxidants can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. If you like your tea sweet, load up on honey! If you don't like your tea sweet, consider adding even a small amount of honey to support the antioxidants in your matcha.
Honey is a natural energy booster
Unlike refined sugars and artificial sweeteners, honey provides a natural source of energy.
Honey contains glucose and fructose, which are quickly absorbed by the body, providing a quick boost of energy. Honey can also improve physical performance and endurance. Drinking honey-sweetened matcha tea can help you stay energized and alert throughout the day without the crash associated with other sweeteners or different types of caffeine.
Adding honey to your morning tea or matcha-aid before a workout is a great way to get a natural & lasting jolt of energy.
Honey soothes sore throat and cough
Honey has long been used as a natural remedy for sore throats and coughs.
Honey’s soothing properties can provide relief from irritation and its antibacterial effects help combat infections. Adding honey to warm tea creates a comforting drink that can ease throat pain and reduce coughing.
Honey has also been shown to combat respiratory issues. Studies found that honey was effective in reducing nighttime coughing and improving sleep in children with respiratory infections. For adults, a cup of honey tea can offer similar benefits, making it a life changing remedy when suffering from allergies and during cold and flu season.
Honey supports digestive health
Honey contains prebiotics - compounds that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Consuming prebiotics helps you maintain a healthy digestive system, improve your nutrient absorption, and support your overall gut health.
Prebiotics have been shown to enhance the balance of gut microbiota (the ecosystem of microbiomes that live in your intestines), leading to better digestive health and fewer gastrointestinal issues.
Honey enhances your immune system
The immune-boosting properties of honey make it a great addition to your daily routine.
Honey can enhance immune response and reduce the severity of infections. Honey is known for its antibacterial and antiviral effects, that means it can help strengthen your immune system and protect against all sorts of illnesses.
Honey in tea helps you stay healthy and recover from sickness faster.
Honey improves skin health
Honey is beneficial when consumed and also when applied externally to skin.
According to research, the antioxidants in honey can protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, while its antibacterial properties can prevent and treat skin infections. Honey’s antioxidants and antibacterial qualities can help improve skin texture and reduce the occurrence of acne.
Combine using a DIY matcha and honey face mask with drinking a cup of honey matcha tea and you’ll be headed towards healthier skin and a better complexion from the inside out!
Honey reduces risk of heart disease
Regular consumption of honey has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease.
Honey helps lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce inflammation—all of which are key factors in maintaining heart health!
The antioxidants in honey, particularly flavonoids, can improve heart health by reducing oxidative stress and preventing plaque buildup in the arteries. Incorporating honey into your tea can be a heart-healthy choice that supports cardiovascular wellness too.
The bottom line:
Adding honey to your tea is more than just a way to sweeten your drink. It brings a host of health benefits that can enhance your overall well-being. From boosting antioxidants and energy levels to supporting digestive health and reducing the risk of heart disease, honey is a powerful natural remedy. Mix honey into your matcha green tea for the ultimate health boost.
Disclaimer: These statements in this blog post have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.
Resources:
Paul, I. M., Beiler, J., McMonagle, A., Shaffer, M. L., Duda, L., & Berlin, C. M., Jr (2007). Effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents. Archives of pediatrics & adolescent medicine, 161(12), 1140–1146. https://doi.org/10.1001/archpedi.161.12.1140
Samarghandian, S., Farkhondeh, T., & Samini, F. (2017). Honey and Health: A Review of Recent Clinical Research. Pharmacognosy research, 9(2), 121–127. https://doi.org/10.4103/0974-8490.204647
“Probiotics: What You Need to Know.” National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics-what-you-need-to-know.
“Antioxidant Supplements: What You Need to Know.” National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/antioxidant-supplements-what-you-need-to-know.
