Honey is not only a romantic gesture when used to call your special one, but it also has lots of health and nutritional benefits. Many people are fond of honey and include it in their everyday lives as a cure for almost every health problem from a sore throat to keeping great skin and losing weight, or even as a natural sugar substitute. Here are some alternative uses for honey to reap the best of its benefits: Moisturises dry skin: Honey is an important skincare ingredient that can be used to moisturise dry skin and act as a shield against wrinkles and dryness. You can rub honey onto dry and patchy skin. Leave it for 30 minutes, then wash off. For use in a skin mask, melt one teaspoon of beeswax, one teaspoon of honey and two teaspoons of oil in a boiler and stir until it solidifies. Apply the paste onto your skin. Once dried, take off with lukewarm water. For a facial mask, whisk an egg white with a spoonful of organic honey. Gently rub the paste onto your face. Leave this paste for 10 minutes before you rinse it off with warm water. You can also combine two teaspoons of milk with two tablespoons of honey. Apply the mixture on your face. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then wash it off with water. Helps sore throats: Honey has anti-microbial properties that not only soothe sore throats but can also kill the bacteria that cause the infections. If you have a sore throat, mix two tablespoons of honey, four tablespoons of lemon juice and a pinch of salt in lukewarm water. Stir the mixture well then drink the blend to soothe your throat. Helps reduce weight: Nutrients in honey are essential to dissolve fats and cholesterol and also mobilise the fat stored in your body. If you put a few drops of honey in warm water and drink it every morning, this will help you reduce weight. You can also add lemon juice to the mixture and get the same result. Helps with healthy hair: Honey acts as a natural conditioner and gives your locks a great shine. It is also good for hair revitalising. To condition damaged hair, add a teaspoon of honey to your regular shampoo to smooth damaged hair. You can also add olive oil to the mixture. Then massage the mixture into the scalp for about one to two minutes. Let it soak for 15-20 minutes during your hair wash. Wrap it with a towel for deep conditioning. Remove the towel and shampoo your hair as usual. To get silky hair, mix two tablespoons of yoghurt, two eggs, a few drops of lemon juice and five drops of honey in a bowl. Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair. Keep it on for 30 minutes before washing it off with water. Substitutes for sugar in baking: If you are trying to cut down your sugar consumption, then honey is the perfect option. Replace every cup of sugar, with three-quarters of a cup of honey. You can even add a quarter of a teaspoon of baking soda and reduce another liquid in your recipe by a quarter of a cup. Boosts energy: Honey is loaded with antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and some extra essential nutrients. It's a natural source of sugar and calories, and helps to give you that extra boost of energy.
