Jason E. Andersen

You know how I say there is almost always an exception in biology, which leads me to use qualifying terms like almost always?  As a follow-up to last week, not all honey is created equal. While some honey may kill babies, other types have healing properties. It’s like the natural world is complicated, or something.

Bonus Fun Fact: Manuka honey is highly valued as an anti-inflammatory which can ease pain and swelling. People also use it in drinks for treating a cough or sore throat. These healing properties are derived from the flower nectar that the bees feed on. The honey is named after the Manuka tree, which grows in New Zealand. Nectar from the Manuka tree contains compounds with antibacterial and and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds are carried in the nectar, consumed by the bee, and spit out in the form of honey. That honey is then marketed worldwide for it’s healing benefits.

This fact was brought to us by a knowledgeable and talented mixologist, Sam C. Michelle and I were out for our weekly Friday date night and were talking about my bonus fun fact at the bar. Sam overheard us while he was mixing our cocktails and shared this tidbit. Thanks Sam! If you want some top-shelf cocktails and good conversation, you can visit Sam at Vida, located inside the DoubleTree Hilton near 72nd and Grover in Omaha.

Bonus Bonus Fun Fact: Other types of honey have anti-septic properties as well, due to them containing hydrogen peroxide. Yummy!