The Effects of Honey Clinically and Spiritually by Dr. Samar Shehaiber
Abu'l-Mutawakkil related from Abu Sa'id that a man came to the Prophet (PBUH) and said, “My brother has an intestinal illness." The Prophet (PBUH) said, "Let him drink honey." He came a second time and the Prophet (PBUH) said, "Let him drink honey." Then he came a third time and he again said, "Let him drink honey." Then he came to him and said, "I have done it." The Prophet (PBUH) said, "Allah spoke the truth and the stomach of your brother has lied. Let him drink honey." He gave it to him and he was cured.
Honey is considered to be the only type of food that includes all substances necessary to sustain life. It is said to have been used as early as ancient Egypt to treat soldier’s wounds. It also has been used as a symbol of Napoleon’s Empire, and Allah Almighty has mentioned it many times in the holy Quran, "Containing healing for mankind." (16:69). Scientific research is currently updating its studies on the many benefits of honey. In one recent study from the University of California, reported in March 2004, it is said that daily consumption of raw honey may raise antioxidant levels in the blood and reduces the risk of damage from free radicals.
Caution should be taken though when eating raw honey. It should never be heated, as it contains additives, and pregnant women should not eat unpasteurized honey. Raw honey is a source of simple carbohydrates, and contains an array of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. Raw honey is best since all the benefits have been cooked out of most store bought honey, so it’s pretty much useless other than as a sweetener.
The many benefits of honey include being a natural sedative and nourishment for the body and soul. If you eat it with oat porridge it will calm the nerves. It also helps retain calcium in the body so less chance of osteoporosis or weak bones. Honey helps soothe tissues and is a great anti-bacterial and anti-fungal compound as well. It is considered to be a natural antiseptic for wound healing. If you add it with ginger juice, which is the drink of paradise, it can be a great expectorant for lung diseases such as coughs, colds, sore throat, bronchitis, emphysema, etc.! For asthma, use it with ginger and a half gram of black pepper and drink a few times a day. It boosts the immune system; it can also heal sores in the mouth.
Honey is a great moisturizer and can be used on the skin as a revitalizing mask. Mix it with milk and apply on your face for smoother skin. Use it on your hair as well with olive oil as a conditioner. If you eat from the local honey it will make you immune to pollens in your area, so no seasonal allergies! If your eyesight is declining, mix honey with carrot juice and take it one hour before meals daily in the morning.
Mix 1-2 teaspoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and you have a preparation to purify your blood! It protects against capillary problems and arteriosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. It can fight against cholesterol and high blood pressure. It will also reduce your fat and clear out your bowel. No more constipation or indigestion. It is effective in the treatment of ulcers, particularly stomach ulcers. Honey and cinnamon can help you reduce your weight as well. For poor digestion, mix a 1:1 solution of honey and cider vinegar and dilute it with water. It’s also a great sweetener for diabetics, and it’s a great substitute for sugar products. Dissolve honey with an equal amount of warm water and apply as a lotion on the eye for conjunctivitis or pink eye. If you are fatigued or tired and exhausted, drink it with warm water daily. If you can’t sleep or suffer from insomnia, take it with lukewarm water or milk before bedtime. For headaches and migraines, take 2 teaspoons at meals. Of course you should always seek medical advice if these symptoms persist; there may be a more serious underlying problem. Honey is considered to be a great energy source as well to start off your day. It is used by many athletes, and research shows that it improves athletic endurance and performance, because it facilitates the maintenance of blood sugar levels and muscle recuperation as well as glycogen restoration. Honey also improves your kids’ appetite if they are suffering from appetite loss!
The Prophet (PBUH) used to love honey. 'Urwa related that 'A'isha, bless them both, said, "The Prophet (PBUH) liked sweets and honey." Sa'id ibn Jubayr related from Ibn 'Abbas that the Prophet (PBUH) said, "There is healing in three: scarification for cupping, a drink of honey or cauterization by fire. I forbid my community to use cauterization."
Cupping is a form of Chinese medicine that is used to purify the blood, and cauterization is cutting or branding which is forbidden in common practice unless in medical necessity.