Ayurveda describes various properties and uses of Makshika or Madhu (honey). There are two types of Madhu as per Ayurveda; Navina Madhu (fresh or recently collected honey) and Purana Madhu (old honey).
Uses of Madhu:
- Useful in Hyperlipidemia: Purana Madhu due to Chhedana (scraping) property helps in metabolism of fat (scraping of Kapha)
- Respiratory tract disorders: It is useful in common cold, sore throat and cough with sputum.
- Healing property: Due to Shodhana (purification), Ropana (healing), and Sandhana (union) properties it is useful for topical application on wounds and mouth ulcers.
- Navin Madhu acts as laxative.
- For eyes and eye sight: Application of honey on lower eyelid as Anjana keeps eyes healthy.
- Due to Ropana property it helps in hyperacidity caused due to gastric ulcers.
- In rainy season it is good to use honey on regular basis.
- Ayurveda mentions Yogavahi properties of Madhu i.e. when honey is used with other herbal preparations it enhances the medicinal qualities of those preparations and also helps them to circulate in whole body.
Precautions needed before intake of Madhu:
- It should not be heated or mixed with hot foods.
- In summer season intake of honey should be avoided.
- Do not mix Madhu and Ghrita (ghee) in equal quantity.
- Do not take Madhu during indigestion.
- Do not take Madhu in excess quantity.
- Do not drink hot water after taking honey.
Dr. Neha Dubey
(neiari.guwahati@gmail.com)