In my last blog I wrote about the internal benefits of honey as an antioxidant, cancer fighting agent and much more. What honey also does is help the largest organ of our body : Our Skin. There are also added benefits to your hair and nails. Made by the alchemy of bees collecting nectar, pollen, and resins from flowers, honey can help moisturize, fight aging, and fight bacteria. Plus, it’s loaded with nutrients, antioxidants, and healing compounds. Find a local bee keeper or look in your local grocer for Raw Honey. 1) Moisturizer Honey is a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture from the air into the skin and ensures its retained it in the layers where it’s needed most for penetrating, long-lasting hydration. In a comprehensive article by Well-Being Secrets, honey is a fantastic ingredient that will help restore moisture to your hands, feet and entire body http://www.well-beingsecrets.com/health-benefits-of-honey-ultimate-guide/. It can be added to shampoos and conditioners also. Try it: Spread one teaspoon raw honey on clean, dry skin, and let sit for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with tepid water. 2) Sun Burn Treatment With summer here it's always important to wear sunscreen! However, on those spots we don't cover or that extra time in the sun Honey restores hydration to the deepest layers of sun-exposed skin—and both honey and aloe vera contain powerful anti-inflammatories to calm burned skin and aid recovery. Try it: Mix one part raw honey with two parts pure aloe vera gel. Apply to sunburned skin. 3) Acne Treatment Honey contains antibacterial and antifungal properties that thwart bacteria that can lead to breakouts. Its anti-inflammatory properties will calm redness and irritation. Try it: Apply a dab of raw honey to affected areas, and sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse with tepid water. 4) Gentle Exfoliator Honey is loaded with antioxidants, enzymes, and other nutrients that nourish, cleanse, and hydrate skin. Baking soda, meanwhile, is a gentle natural exfoliator that removes dead skin cells, allowing new cells to emerge for a radiant complexion. Try it: Mix two tablespoons honey with one tablespoon baking soda. Splash your skin with water, then gently rub the concoction on your face or body in a circular motion. Rinse well. 5) Scar Fader Honey is said to lighten skin, and its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial compounds help to decrease the appearances of scars and increase healing and tissue regeneration. The hydrating properties of honey and coconut oil or olive oil will also help revive skin cells, while regular, gentle massaging will increase circulation to aid skin recovery and cell turnover. Try it: Mix one teaspoon raw honey with one teaspoon organic coconut oil or olive oil. Apply to the affected area, and massage with the tips of your fingers in a circular motion for one to two minutes. Place a hot washcloth over your skin, and let sit until cool. Repeat daily. 6) Pore Cleanser The enzymes in raw honey clarify skin and keep pores clear and clean. Plus, the antibacterial properties of honey and jojoba or coconut oil also prevent bacterial buildup that can lead to skin imbalances and breakouts. Try it: Stir one tablespoon raw honey with two tablespoons jojoba oil or organic coconut oil until the mixture is a spreadable consistency. Apply to clean, dry skin, and massage gently in a circular motion, avoiding your eye area. Rinse with tepid water. 7) Helps with Eczema Scientists have discovered that Manuka Honey contains exceptionally powerful healing properties. It not only heals damaged skin in extremely severe cases of eczema , eliminate the dry botches, but it also has the ability to regenerate new skin growth. In addition, Manuka Honey also has strong antibacterial properties which helps prevents infection when the protective skin barrier is destroyed. You should always talk to a physician or health care provider if you're considering using any home remedy. Try it: Apply honey and cinnamon powder in equal parts on the affected parts. More DIY Recipes ~ Hair Conditioner: Combine 1/2 Cup honey with 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Apply liberally to your hair and work it in well Use a shower cap to cover your hair for 30 minutes and then shampoo normally. Lip Exfoliate and Plumper 1/2 teaspoon raw organic sugar 1 teaspoon honey Make a smooth paste and apply liberally over lips is small circles. Rinse. References http://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/beauty-uses-for-honey http://www.well-beingsecrets.com/ http://www.benefits-of-honey.com/eczema-treatment.html |