Clever uses for honey

Honey is an indispensable kitchen cupboard staple most of us always keep on hand – this natural sweetener is commonly used in cooking and baking or even on its own over toast or porridge.

Honey can be used for so much more than just baking – raw honey is a great natural remedy and can be used as a beauty product, too.

Here’s some of our favourite clever uses for honey you can try at home.

Boost your energy

If you’re feeling an afternoon dip, honey is a great alternative to caffeine. Instead of a coffee or energy drink, mix a tablespoon into a cup of tea or just hot water to help perk you up.

Banish sore throats

Smooth honey can naturally help sooth a dry, sore throat. Mix it with hot water and a slice of lemon – or, if you’re full of cold and flu and need something to help you settle down and get some rest, make a hot toddy instead. All you need is hot water, a shot of whiskey, honey and lemon juice.

As a hair treatment

Honey can be used as a base for a hair treatment that can help with everything from persistent dandruff to dry, frizzy hair. To make it take one part raw, organic honey and mix with 2 parts water in an applicator bottle. Use it in place of your shampoo – it won’t lather, but when washed out will leave your hair feeling soft and clean. If you have dry ends, coat them with honey and leave for a few minutes like you would a conditioner.

Soften skin

Instead of expensive bath oils, try a few tablespoons of honey in a hot bath instead. It will leave your skin feeling softer and smells lovely, too.

Boost your athletic performance

Runners often turn to carbohydrates before a long run, and studies have shown that honey can have similar effects. A spoonful or two of honey before a long workout could give you the boost you need to finish the race.

For mosquito bites

Honey works well to help stop the itching from insect bites like mosquitos if you don’t have anything else to hand. Honey is a natural antibiotic, so it will also help fight off infections – place a small dab over the bite and leave it to soak in.

Facial scrub

Honey is a great ingredient to add to a homemade scrub. Mix equal parts raw honey with brown sugar. Massage into your face with circular motions and then rinse away – your skin will be bright, soft and smooth.

Do you know any clever uses for honey? Let us know in the comments below!