Why pollen? Because that’s how floral sources are determined and honey purity is evaluated. When several honeys are harvested separately and mixed together by producers to obtain a certain taste or appearance, then the resulting honey is called a ‘blend of honeys’ or ‘blended honey‘.
What does polyfloral honey look, taste and smell like? Different varieties will have their own, unique appearance and aroma. But because only certain nectars give honey a very light pigment and polyfloral honeys contain different nectars, they are often a medium amber color or have darker, brown-reddish reflections, but this is not a rule. As for the taste, they tend to have a stronger flavor profile and sometimes bolder notes, hence the reason some prefer them to milder-tasting monofloral varieties.
Health effects
What are the health benefits of polyfloral honey? Honey in general shares similar properties, but each nectar in its composition brings with it elements with a unique therapeutic action, characteristic of the plant of origin, making polyfloral honey a delicious and, sometimes, healthier option than monofloral varieties. Here are 7 wonderful properties, benefits and uses of polyfloral honeys:
1) Tonic and nourishing. Polyfloral honey is considered to have a more varied nutritional profile than certain monofloral honeys simply because of the variety of nectar types in its composition which is more likely to provide a wider range of nutrients and other biologically active elements. Polyfloral honeys are a source of multiple essential nutrients like B vitamins and vitamin C, potassium, calcium, iron, phosphorus, but also other elements with nutritional value like pollen particles, enzymes, amino acids etc. The raw, unprocessed and unheated honey is good for low blood sugar levels, low energy levels and fatigue.
2) Strong immune-boosting properties. Rich in different pollen types, polyfloral honey exhibits immuno-modulating activity, more exactly it stimulates the immune system to respond better to infection and disease. Pollen does this by increasing vitamin C content in the immune system organs that produce white blood cells, by reducing inflammation and exerting antioxidant and antibiotic properties. However, other antioxidants and the antibacterial elements in polyfloral honeys also contribute to a stronger immune system and better health.
But plant pollen is also a source of allergic reactions. If you have multiple pollen allergies, avoid polyfloral honeys because you never really know what types of pollen they contain. If you are allergic to honey bees, then it is recommended to avoid anything they produce (honey, propolis, royal jelly, bee bread).
3) Wound healing and other skin benefits. The antibacterial elements in polyfloral honey (the antiseptic hydrogen peroxide) and characteristics (acidic pH, low moisture content, natural sugars) give it wound healing benefits. Using it as a natural face mask can help reduce acne, nourish the skin and give it a natural glow.
4) Good for colds, flu and other respiratory infections. Honey in general has natural antibacterial, antiseptic and even antibiotic properties, helping inhibit bacteria growth and reduce bacteria numbers. Combined with its tonic, strengthening effect and immune-boosting properties, it can prove a great ally for the treatment of respiratory tract infections like the common cold, flu, sinusitis, bronchitis etc.
5) Natural remedy for cough and sore throat. Eating the raw honey helps form a protective barrier over the throat lining, preventing further inflammation and reducing existing irritation. This helps soothe throat soreness and calms cough. However, to produce its benefits, the honey has to be raw, unprocessed and unheated. This means that if we added to tea, we should first let the tea cool down to room temperature because heat destroys the beneficial properties of honey in general.
6) Good for gastritis and stomach upset. Eating raw honey, polyfloral included, is said to help calm stomach upset and relieve irritation of the stomach lining, potentially helping improve gastritis. The natural sugars in polyfloral honeys boast mild prebiotic properties, helping improve transit time and regulating digestion. Some say eating honey is also good for constipation and indeed, some people report experiencing diarrhea if they eat too much, proof it stimulates transit.
7) Richer in antioxidants. Generally, the darker the color, the more pigments the honey contains and many natural pigments also exert antioxidant effects. Polyfloral varieties have been found to have a stronger antioxidant action than light-colored monofloral honeys, but not necessarily the strongest.
Comparison
Which is better: polyfloral or monofloral honey? There are benefits to both monofloral and polyfloral honey types and honey, irrespective of its nectar and pollen profile, remains a healthy food with a varied therapeutic action. This being said, there are arguments in favor of both types being better than the other. The truth lies with the consumer and his or her use of the honey.
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Embark on a journey like no other with the
Two Busy Bees Honey Bee Farm Tour nestled in the picturesque locale of Geebung, Brisbane, QLD. This extraordinary experience is tailored for couples, best friends, or anyone seeking an intimate exploration of nature's wonders. With a maximum of four participants per tour, you're guaranteed an up-close encounter with the enchanting world of bees.
Welcome to the fascinating realm of beekeeping, where ordinary individuals transform into guardians of buzzing colonies, harnessing nature's sweetest reward: honey! Join me as we delve into the enchanting journey of beekeepers and explore how they are not only cashing in on honey but uncovering a plethora of incredible benefits along the way.
What a fantastic experience, finally crossed off the bucket list! Deborah and her father were wonderful hosts on our tour. We cannot thank them enough! We learnt an incredible amount about bees, hives and honey. Our hosts were very welcoming, warm and generous with their knowledge. We felt so looked after on the tour and had all of our questions answered. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone curious about the inner world of bees! And the honey is literally the yummiest we have ever tasted. Thank you Two Busy Bees!!
Deborah and her father provided us with an amazing, super strong hive and have been a great help along the way to learning about bees.!!
D
Pure Honey Tubs - BOGO - Buy one get one half price - Limited time only! Denise Brady
Greatest Honey EVER
I have never tasted such beautiful Honey -the flavour is just so Natural & Earthy. Store bought honey is just NO COMPARISON to Two Busy Bees.Cheers Denise Brady- Geebung Qld.
What a fantastic experience, finally crossed off the bucket list! Deborah and her father were wonderful hosts on our tour. We cannot thank them enough! We learnt an incredible amount about bees, hives and honey. Our hosts were very welcoming, warm and generous with their knowledge. We felt so looked after on the tour and had all of our questions answered. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone curious about the inner world of bees! And the honey is literally the yummiest we have ever tasted. Thank you Two Busy Bees!!
Deborah and her father provided us with an amazing, super strong hive and have been a great help along the way to learning about bees.!!
D
Pure Honey Tubs - BOGO - Buy one get one half price - Limited time only! Denise Brady
Greatest Honey EVER
I have never tasted such beautiful Honey -the flavour is just so Natural & Earthy. Store bought honey is just NO COMPARISON to Two Busy Bees.Cheers Denise Brady- Geebung Qld.