A History of Honey

Honey is one of the sweetest and purest forms of natural sweetener, but it has remained a mystery in many ways ever since man discovered the golden liquid. Its use dates far back in history. Honey made more than 3,000 years ago was found still pure in a tomb in Egypt. Archaeologists also found records of beekeeping in northern Egypt, proving that ancient Egyptians farmed the honey and didn't just collect it in the wild. Later, the body of Alexander the Great was embalmed in honey and beeswax. Greek athletes drank honey before their events in the Olympics. Romans believed it prolonged life, and when Julius Caesar asked one-hundred-year old Pollio Rumilius what kept his mind so sharp, he answered, "Honey." An ancient poet referred to Scotland as the"Honey Isle," because the Highlanders drank so much mead made from fermented honey, water, and herbs.

The term, "honeymoon" comes from an old French practice that

required a couple drink honey for a moon or thirty days after they wed. This was supposed to ensure the blessing of children. Honey was often used in medicine. For example, Hipprocrates prescribed honey for many of his patients, and Pliny said it was "effective in easing many afflictions." Homer told Diomedes to add honey to his horse's barley. Horse breeders, ranchers, and farmers today still sometimes use honey and bran to help animals gain weight.

During the Middle Ages, honey was given for the relief of ulcers, digestive problems, raw throats, and mouth sores. It was also often applied to wounds to help prevent inflammation. In Medieval England, honey was used to help cure meat and leather. Women were known to use it on their hands, and French women applied it to their face to help preserve their youthful appearance.

Although much about honey still remains a mystery, many people believe in its benefits, and there is still a great demand for it. Beekeepers stay busy and suppliers often have a hard time keeping jars of honey stocked on their shelves.

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