Health Wonders Of Honey

HEALTH WONDERS OF HONEY

Since the start of time, mankind has been in the constant pursuit of cure for various illnesses plaguing the world, the rapidly advancing medical sector being the prime example. If we were to take a look back and wonder how the people in the past sought treatment, and to approach this situation from a religious aspect, we can easily apply the teachings of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the beloved Prophet (PBUH) as they are the ultimate sources of guidance in all aspects of life, including health and healing. This blog aims to share some valuable insights, knowledge, and practical wisdom for managing various ailments through the simple consumption of natural, easily accessible foods, more particularly - Honey, whose immense benefits are often overlooked. 

The Holy Quran contains numerous references emphasizing the importance of the Prophet (PBUH) and affirming the timeless relevance of his guidance. For example, Allah Almighty reminds humanity of this in the following verse stating,

This verse clearly indicated that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent as a guide, and mercy for all of humankind, and as such was given wisdom by Allah The Almighty that is beneficial to humanity. Allah (SWT) continues to  say in the Quran:

Further insinuating the fact that the medicine of the prophet (PBUH) is not restricted to spiritual healing alone. In fact, it balances the healing of the soul and the physical body in order to ultimately prepare man for a better life in the Hereafter.

The Prophet (PBUH) was a firm advocate of household remedies for the treatment of ailments and would frequently emphasize on their benefits. When we take a closer look at the healing properties of common, easily available foods, it becomes clear just how simple it is to add these into our daily diet to support health, aid recovery from illness, and strengthen our immunity.

Honey

Arguably one of the most beneficial natural foods - Honey is an undeniably remarkable natural food due to the plethora of health benefits experienced by the consumer. considered an incredible natural gift, not only for its sweetness but also for its extensive healing properties. Honey has been cherished for thousands of years as it's packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants. Honey helps boost immunity due to its antibacterial qualities and protecting an individual from a number of various health concerns. Honey is a staple in traditional medicine as it helps treat and manage illnesses like diabetes when used as part of a balanced diet. 

For generations, honey has been used as an alternative treatment for a variety of ailments, from wound healing and skin conditions to chronic illnesses like bronchial asthma, throat infections, and even certain types of cancer. Historically, honey has been relied upon to treat issues such as eye infections, fatigue, digestive problems like constipation, and conditions like eczema. Its value goes beyond nutrition, as it also serves as a soothing remedy for numerous everyday health concerns.

The mention of Honey goes way back to approximately 1400 years ago, when it was mentioned in the Holy Quran as the best source of healing. In the following verse, Allah (SWT) commands the bees to produce this unique gift. This divine mention underscores honey’s profound benefits and reminds us of its natural role in supporting our health and well-being.

“Set up hives in the mountains and in the trees and in the trellises that people put up" [16:68]

In fact, the Quran has a separate surah called “Nahl” (meaning “bee” in Arabic) on bees and honey. In Surah Nahl it says,

 “There are cures for humans in honey.”

Additionally, honey is mentioned as a food of paradise in the Holy Quran, remarking it's healing abilities as as it is considered a divine gift for the righteous, as mentioned in the Quran, 

مَّثَلُ ٱلْجَنَّةِ ٱلَّتِى وُعِدَ ٱلْمُتَّقُونَ ۖ فِيهَآ أَنْهَـٰرٌۭ مِّن مَّآءٍ غَيْرِ ءَاسِنٍۢ وَأَنْهَـٰرٌۭ مِّن لَّبَنٍۢ لَّمْ يَتَغَيَّرْ طَعْمُهُۥ وَأَنْهَـٰرٌۭ مِّنْ خَمْرٍۢ لَّذَّةٍۢ لِّلشَّـٰرِبِينَ وَأَنْهَـٰرٌۭ مِّنْ عَسَلٍۢ مُّصَفًّۭى ۖ وَلَهُمْ فِيهَا مِن كُلِّ ٱلثَّمَرَٰتِ وَمَغْفِرَةٌۭ مِّن رَّبِّهِمْ ۖ كَمَنْ هُوَ خَـٰلِدٌۭ فِى ٱلنَّارِ وَسُقُوا۟ مَآءً حَمِيمًۭا فَقَطَّعَ أَمْعَآءَهُمْ

The description of the Paradise promised to the righteous is that in it are rivers of fresh water, rivers of milk that never changes in taste, rivers of wine delicious to drink, and rivers of pure honey. There they will ˹also˺ have all kinds of fruit, and forgiveness from their Lord. ˹Can they be˺ like those who will stay in the Fire forever, left to drink boiling water that will tear apart their insides? [47:15]

Similarly, the Prophet (PBUH) also recommended honey for stomach aches. He in fact led by example as he used to love drinking honey melted in water, especially as part of his breakfast or before his morning prayers. This practise of the prophet (PBUH) leaves us wondering if consuming honey on an empty stomach enhances its benefits, indeed it does, as in today's medicine, doctors recommend honey being taken on an empty stomach in the mornings in order to instantly boost energy levels to set the foundation of the day on a productive and energetic note. In addition, it amplifies the antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial properties found in honey along with promoting food digestion and absorption. Enzymes contained in honey increase digestion and absorption of nutrients like carbohydrates. 

If you'd like to explore more on the types of food and see how simply everyday foods can make a profound impact on your life, be sure to check out our blog: 3 HEALING FOODS IN ISLAM