July 20, 2025

Why I’m Sweet on Honey (And You Should Be Too!)

Honey is one of those magical ingredients I always keep in my pantry. It is sweet and delicious, of course, but it is also incredibly versatile. I have used honey in so many ways over the years that I have come to think of it as more of a household essential than just a sweetener. From cooking and skincare to home remedies, honey has worked its way into many parts of my daily routine.

Let’s start with food, because that’s where most people think honey shines. I drizzle it over warm biscuits, mix it into oatmeal, and use it to sweeten smoothies or herbal tea. There’s something about the natural sweetness of honey that makes everything taste better without that processed sugar aftertaste. One of my favorite simple snacks is sliced apples with a little peanut butter and a swirl of honey on top. It’s the perfect blend of tart, salty, and sweet. I also use honey in salad dressings. A quick mix of olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and a spoonful of honey turns into a tangy-sweet vinaigrette that brings even the most boring greens to life.

Honey also makes an amazing glaze for meat. I often make a honey-garlic marinade for chicken or salmon. It caramelizes beautifully when cooked and gives the dish a nice depth of flavor. I have even used it in baking, swapping out sugar in recipes like banana bread or muffins. The texture turns out slightly different, but the flavor is richer and more complex.

Beyond the kitchen, honey has earned its place in my medicine cabinet. Whenever I feel a sore throat coming on, I mix a spoonful of honey with lemon juice and warm water. It’s soothing and coats my throat in a way that over-the-counter lozenges never seem to do. Sometimes I’ll even take a teaspoon straight from the jar if my cough is particularly annoying. I read once that honey can work just as well as some commercial cough syrups, and honestly, it has for me.

Honey is also a staple in my skincare routine. I’ve made DIY face masks by mixing honey with plain yogurt or mashed avocado. It’s surprisingly moisturizing and leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth. If I have a breakout, I dab a little raw honey on the spot and let it sit for a while before washing it off. It helps reduce redness and inflammation without drying out my skin like some acne treatments do.

Another great use is as a natural lip balm. When my lips get chapped, especially in winter, I apply a thin layer of honey before bed. By morning, they feel so much better. I’ve also added honey to homemade body scrubs by mixing it with sugar and a bit of coconut oil. It exfoliates and hydrates at the same time.

Even around the house, honey comes in handy. Once, I used it to help a splinter slide out more easily. I read that applying honey to the skin can reduce swelling and draw out the splinter. It worked surprisingly well. I have also used it to soothe minor burns or scrapes. Its antibacterial properties make it a gentle and effective remedy.

All in all, honey is far more than just something to stir into tea. It’s a natural healer, a delicious treat, and a gentle beauty aid. The more I learn about honey, the more ways I find to use it. Whether I am cooking dinner, fixing a cold, or pampering my skin, honey has a place in my life every single day.