Honey, the nectar collected by the bees and stored in honeycombs was perhaps the first natural sweetener discovered by the mankind, much before sugar.

Our association with honey dates back to many centuries and it has always occupied a significant place in our lives - be it culinary, medicine, beauty etc.,

The viscous edible liquid, a true gift from the Mother Nature has transformed into several avatars in the recent years. The sweet, mildly tart natural honey is now available in various flavours based on the plant, flower, natural aroma, spice, sweetness and ultimately depending on the process of harvesting.

Today, we find several types of flavoured honey in the market from raw honey, wildflower honey, Cinnamon honey, Pepper honey, Eucalyptus honey and so on.

Each and every variety of honey comes with its own distinct flavour and they are processed to meet various health and beauty needs.

However, honey in any form and flavour is not recommended for the babies below one year as it may cause infant botulism, a serious gastrointestinal condition.

Here are 3 top flavours of honey available in the market and their benefits:

Wildflower Honey: Wildflower honey is the nectar collected exclusively from the wildflowers. The antioxidants in wildflower honey play a crucial role in protecting vital organs from oxidative stress cellular mutation, lowering the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. The potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties are effective to combat seasonal sniffles and allergies. This unique honey is a powerhouse of good carbohydrates, sugars and minerals that can stimulate metabolism and boost levels of energy. Suffering from persistent allergies? Take a spoonful of wildflower honey daily for relief.

How To Use: Take a teaspoon of wildflower honey on empty stomach or mix it with warm water to keep away several allergies. Apply it on minor cuts, wounds to heal fast.

Cinnamon Honey: Honey and Cinnamon together contain amazing healing properties and are known as ‘miracle mixture’ in Ayurveda. Both these ingredients are a staple in Indian kitchens and aid in controlling sudden spikes of blood glucose by reducing triglycerides. Cinnamon honey is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties, aids in fighting allergies and is an excellent cure for constipation.

How To Use: Take a teaspoon full of cinnamon honey on an empty stomach for stimulated bowel movements. Apply a thin coat of cinnamon honey on the face like a mask and leave it for 20 minutes. Rinse it with plain, cold water and feel an instant glow.

Eucalyptus Honey: Eucalyptus honey is harvested from the flora of Eucalyptus trees and it has a very distinct taste, aroma and has a host of health benefits. It is widely used in treating abrasions, ulcers, cuts, burns and sores.

Nothing works better than a teaspoon of eucalyptus honey if you are suffering from severe cough and cold. The relief from cough and congestion would be almost instant as it acts on the receptors in the nasal mucosa. Besides eucalyptus honey is best known to bolster immunity and keep infections at bay.

How To Use: Take a teaspoon of eucalyptus honey for an instant relief from dry or wet cough. Massage it in a circular motion on the skin to alleviate muscle and joint pains.