Natural honey is defined as honey produced by bees using nectars gathered in the natural environment or with secretion. It is important to note that natural honey does not contain any added sugar syrup, flavorings, or additives.  In addition to its distinctive aroma and flavor, natural honey offers a range of nutritional benefits. 

Honey is a food that offers numerous benefits for human health, thanks to its natural structure and rich content. The following are among the most important benefits of honey:

1. Immune Booster: Honey has been shown to support immune function by exhibiting both antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which help to fight infections. Honey serves as an effective barrier against upper respiratory tract infections, particularly during the winter season.
2. Antioxidant Source: The antioxidants in its content shield the body against free radicals, which delay the visible signs of aging and enhance protection against heart disease.
3. Digestive System Support: Honey’s probiotic properties facilitate digestive processes, bolster intestinal health, and alleviate gastric discomfort.
4. Source of Energy: Honey is a fast-acting energy source with a high carbohydrate content. It is a natural energy booster, especially for athletes, and can improve performance.​
5. Skin Health: Honey is an excellent ingredient for skin masks. It reduces acne and maintains the moisture balance of the skin. It is also highly effective against scalp problems.

Honey is a natural source of energy and contains many nutritious ingredients. Honey is a fast-acting source of energy, mainly composed of carbohydrates. It is the B vitamins (B6, niacin, riboflavin) and vitamin C that stand out among the vitamins it contains. Additionally, honey is rich in essential minerals, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. Honey is also rich in amino acids, enzymes, and antioxidants, which further enhance its nutritional value.

Honey contains components that support digestion and contribute to the body’s overall energy balance.  Honey’s antioxidant content helps prevent cell damage and strengthens the immune system. It is also a healthy sweetener alternative that meets the body’s natural sugar needs.

Oregano honey, with its unique aroma and valuable ingredients, is very useful for both adults and children. Here is a brief list of the benefits of oregano honey:

• Its intense oregano aroma makes it a powerful respiratory stimulant. It helps reduce the symptoms of conditions such as bronchitis, chronic or allergic asthma.

• It eases digestion and is effective in relieving bloating.
• It is beneficial for treating dermatological conditions including eczema.
• Its appetizing properties help eliminate appetite loss and weight gain problems.
• It relieves headaches.
• It is effective in treating colds and related illnesses that develop in the bronchi, stomach or lungs.

Honey does indeed naturally and normally crystallize. Honey crystallizes because the sugars, especially glucose, form crystalline forms over time. This process does not affect the quality or nutritional value of honey. In fact, it is considered an indicator of natural honey. Honey does not spoil when it crystallizes—this is a natural process and should not be considered a defect.

Pine honey and blossom honey are sourced from different plants, and the differences in flavor, content, and physical properties are significant.

Difference in Source:

Blossom honey is produced from the nectar collected by bees from flowers. Pine honey is a secretion honey made from the sap gathered by bees from pine trees.

Color and Taste:

Pine honey is usually darker in color and has a more intense, somewhat astringent flavor. Blossom honey is lighter in color and usually has a sweeter aroma.

Crystallization:

Pine honey has a lower glucose content, which means it crystallizes later and retains its freshness longer. Blossom honey naturally crystallizes faster, which makes it a natural product with a shorter shelf life.

Nutritious Content:

Pine honey is richer in minerals and enzymes and has higher antioxidant properties. Blossom honey contains a higher level of pollen, making its nutritional composition distinctly different.

There are several effective ways to spot natural honey:

1. Water Test: Pour a small amount of honey into warm water. Natural honey’s consistency prevents dissolution in this water because of its low dissolving properties. However, fake honey dissolves in water.
2. Consistency and Fluidity: Natural honey is fluid and flows slowly when you spoon it. Fake one will look solid and spoiled when you test it with your spoon.
3. Crystallization: Natural honey crystallizes and goes sugary over time. When left in the refrigerator for too long, it may take on a creamy or butter-like consistency. This proves that the honey is natural and genuine.
4. Taste and Smell: Natural honey has a unique flavor and aroma profile. It offers a natural and rich flavor profile, free from any chemical or artificial flavors.

Honey is not for babies under 1 year old due to the possibility of allergic reactions. However, it is usually safe for children over one year of age because their digestive systems are more resistant. Yet, it is crucial to ensure that the honey comes from a natural and reliable source. Additionally, due to the high sugar and calorie content of honey, it is advisable to maintain a balanced consumption of honey, without overdoing it.

It is important to consider certain factors concerning the heating of honey. Honey is susceptible to losing some of its nutritional value and properties when exposed to high temperatures. In particular, temperatures above 40°C can destroy the enzymes and some vitamins in honey. Also, boiling or exposure to very high temperatures can alter its natural flavor and aroma. This may have an effect on the nutritional value of the honey and lead to a loss of some of its healthy properties.

Here are some important points to consider when buying honey:

Label and Ingredients: Be on the lookout for words like “natural” and “raw” on the label. The list of ingredients should contain only “Honey”. No sugar, syrups or additives should be listed.

Source and Brand: It is safer to buy honey from trusted and well-known brands. You may also learn more about the quality of honey by researching its source and production methods.

Color and Consistency: Natural honey usually has a denser consistency and a natural color. Going sugary (crystallization) is also indicative of natural honey, which is a normal process that occurs over time.

You should make sure that honey is stored in a place between 18-24 degrees, i.e. room temperature. You should seal the jar or package in which the honey is stored in such a way that it is moisture and airtight, and you should choose glass jars instead of plastic ones.