Honey Facts From the National Honey BoardHOLIDAY HONEY PUNCH Makes 20 servings
September is National Honey Month, and in celebration of this event, here are some facts from the National Honey Board that will both inform and entertain you.
- There are approximately 300 varieties of honey in the United States. They vary from water-white fireweed to rich dark amber buckwheat. In general, lighter-colored honeys are milder in flavor while darker-colored honeys are bolder in flavor. Darker honeys also tend to have a higher mineral content and antioxidant potential.
- Because of the floral sources from which honey originates, no two honeys are exactly alike in flavor or nutritional content. Since honeys may contain pollen, studies are underway to determine if eating local honey could relieve allergy symptoms.
- Honey is an natural source of energy that contains a unique mixture of glucose and fructose. Recent studies suggest that this unique mixture of sugars works best in preventing fatigue and enhancing athletic performance.
- All-natural honey is an effective treatment for minor abrasions and burns. A recent review of medical research documents its effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent.
- Research has shown that unlike most other sweeteners, honey contains small amounts of a wide array of vitamins, minerals and trace minerals as well as antioxidants.
- All-natural honey has been used a beauty product since the days of Cleopatra and it continues to be used today in manufactured and homemade products for skin and hair care. Honey is naturally hydrating and non-irritating.
- For relief of the irritating symptoms of sore throats caused by viruses, try a spoonful of honey to soothe and coat the throat. In between, keep up liquids with a steaming cup of tea sweetened with honey.
- Honey is an ingredient in more and more manufactured products from cereals to cough syrup. Over 200 new products containing honey have been introduced since 1998, many of which promoted honey’s all-natural, wholesome image.
As we approach September, I'll be bringing you some of the new award winning recipes that are featured by the National Honey Board, and that should sweeten your life. To start things off, here's a great recipe for a real holiday treat that's good any time.
3/4 cup honey
2 cups boiling water
4 cups cranberry juice cocktail
2 cups orange juice
1 cup lemon juice
1 quart ginger ale
Dissolve honey in boiling water and chill. Combine with cranberry, orange and lemon juice and chill. Before serving, add ginger ale.
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