Honey For Dummies. Howland Blackiston

of honey and the juice from half a lemon. Stir to blend.

      3 Drink up!

BENEFITS: Promotes better digestion (because honey lemon water increases stomach acids); improves bowel movements; eliminates excess fluids in the body that can cause inflammation; and is known to detox the liver (which improves skin tone). These benefits may also help with weight loss.

Oxymel: Honey and Apple Cider Vinegar Shot

      Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is basically fermented apple juice where yeast turns the sugars to alcohol, and then bacteria turns the alcohol into acetic acid. It has been used as a home remedy for many ailments because of its antioxidant properties, which are known to slow damage to cells. Now pair that up with honey’s antibacterial properties and you have an elixir the ancient people called oxymel. This drink is best as a small shot rather than a heaping full glass. Taken once a day or before each meal, it helps everything go down easier.

      PREP TIME: 5 MIN | YIELD: 1 DOSE

      INGREDIENTS

       1 tablespoon honey

       1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

      DIRECTIONS

      1 Combine 1 tablespoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. We suggest using organic vinegar if possible.

      2 Mix well until the honey is dissolved; then drink.

      BENEFITS: Oxymel has antioxidant properties, which are known to slow damage to cells. It also balances blood sugar, relieves acid reflux, and aids in weight loss. You’ll sleep better too.

Golden Milk: Honey and Turmeric

      A traditional hot Indian drink named after its brilliant golden color, golden milk is used in Ayurvedic medicine to heal a multitude of ailments.

      PREP TIME: 15 MIN | YIELD: 1 DOSE

      INGREDIENTS

       1 teaspoon turmeric paste (prepare using a mortar and pestle to crush fresh, peeled turmeric root into a fine, smooth paste)

       1 cup of milk (you may substitute almond or coconut milk)

       3 teaspoons honey

      DIRECTIONS

      1 In a small saucepan, combine the turmeric paste and milk. Heat gently for 3–5 minutes (do not let boil).

      2 Turn off flame. Add 3 teaspoons of honey and stir until melted. Enjoy!

BENEFITS: Golden milk is a natural drink that detoxes your body; improves heart functions; is good for your skin; relieves colds and coughs; and fights digestive disorders.

Honey and Ginger Tea

      Whether you consume it as a hot tea or a cold drink, ginger and honey are a winning combination for health. Believe it or not, ginger is a flowering plant and its roots or rhizomes, called ginger root, are a spice in the turmeric family. It was the very first spice exported from Asia by the ancient Greeks and Romans.

      PREP TIME: 10 MIN | YIELD: 1 DOSE

      INGREDIENTS

       1-inch knob of fresh ginger

       3 teaspoons honey

       1½ cups water

      DIRECTIONS

      1 Add water to a small saucepan and place on the stove.

      2 Wash the ginger (no need to peel), slice it thinly, and add it to the water.

      3 Bring the water to a boil to release the ginger’s oils.

      4 Remove the saucepan from heat and strain out the ginger, keeping the tea.

      5 Add the honey to the hot tea and stir to dissolve completely.

      6 Drink either hot or cold. It’s beneficial either way.

      BENEFITS: Helps control cholesterol; assists in weight loss; aids regulation of blood pressure; and is an anti-inflammatory, which helps relieve joint pain.

Part 3

      Honey Varietals

IN THIS PART …

      Honey is made in every corner of the world. Find out which countries are the top ten honey producers, and which states are the top ten in the United States.

      There are thousands of different varietals of honey, depending upon the floral source. Become acquainted with 50 fantastic varieties worth trying.

      Honey is one of the most adulterated foods. Find out how you can avoid becoming a victim to these greedy practices.