Who doesn’t like honey? The Swedes have this saying that “food tastes better made with butter and love,” and I know it’s true. But this cozy saying is even more true when you add honey to the mix.

It’s with this thought in mind that I share some great information from www.onegoodthingbyjillee regarding the benefits of honey. Talk about a honey of a deal—a scrumptious food that has lots of other benefits! Consider these:

ENERGY BOOSTER. The University of Memphis tested this hypothesis on long distance cyclists back in 2002. Those who ingested honey during each race consistently had faster times than those in the control group. Researchers found this was because honey provides the body with a source of available carbohydrates that can be easily accessed for a quick energy boost.

SLEEP IMPROVER. This is a doozey of a benefit. Studies show just one spoonful of honey before bed can help you get a good night’s sleep. The natural sugars in honey raise insulin levels slightly, which allows the sleep-inducing amino acid, tryptophan, to enter your brain and work its magic.

ALLERGY SYMPTOMS RELIEVER. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, honey is especially helpful for seasonal allergy symptoms. Abundant experiments show that eating raw, local honey is especially helpful. Its helps the body build up an immunity to native pollens if eaten regularly.

MINOR WOUND TREATMENT. Honey has an antibacterial effect, and has become a favored, non-invasive treatment for shallow wounds (cuts and scrapes) and skin irritation. After cleaning the wound with water, dab a thin layer of pure raw honey onto the wound and cover it with a bandage.

IMMUNITY BOOSTER. Peer-reviewed studies from the last 13 years show that honey’s phenolic acids and other antioxidants protect against damage from free radicals (known to contribute to aging and disease). Research is proving these antioxidants also help protect against heart disease, inflammatory disorders, and neurological degeneration.

SKIN MOISTURIZER. Honey acts as a humectant when applied to skin, meaning it helps the skin attract and retain moisture. Jillee has a favorite recipe for an all-natural moisturizing facial cleanser that uses raw honey that I intend to make and try. We can thank her for sharing:

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BLEMISH BANISHER. Honey is a solid treatment for blemishes, again, thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. It fights bacteria while also reducing redness and irritation. Using a cotton swab, apply a dime-sized bit of honey to blemishes; let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse clean.

HAIR SHINER. Honey’s humectant qualities benefits not just skin, but hair as well. Its humectants feed hair and shine is the result. Just follow the instructions below for a moisturizing honey hair treatment.

Mix 1/2 cup honey with 1/4 cup pure olive oil. (Those with oily hair should use less olive oil, about 2 tablespoons or so.) Work the oil and honey mixture into your hair a little at a time until it is evenly coated. Cover your hair with a shower cap, and let it sit for 30 minutes. Remove cap, wash your hair as usual, and enjoy healthy, shiny hair!

LUXURIOUS BATH SOAK. Blend 1 cup of your favorite carrier oil, 1/2 cup pure honey, 1 cup milk, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract to a squeeze bottle. Shake well to mix, then squeeze about half of the mixture into your hot bathwater. (Store the rest in the fridge to use another time.)

To conclude, a cautionary word on honey quality: Unfortunately today, many national brands of honey are adulterated—cut with high fructose corn syrup to increase profit margins. So, to be sure you’re getting a 100% PURE raw honey, buy from a local producer. You’ll find these folks in local classifieds and at your farmers’ markets. 100% pure is crucial. If it isn’t, your honey won’t contain the benefits mentioned above.