Honey: it’s more than just a tasty way to sweeten your afternoon tea. In the United States alone, there are over 300 types of honey, and Americans consume about one and a half pounds of honey per person annually. Adult Americans, that is. Never feed honey to babies, because that can result in premature death of your infant.

The gold of the bees has a unique history of medicinal uses. Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that holistic medicine practitioners worship as one of nature’s best all-around remedies. In the laboratory, honey has been shown to hamper the growth of food-borne pathogens like E. coli, and fight certain bacteria. Rule of thumb: the darker the honey, the better its antibacterial and antioxidant power. Lemon and honey for a sore throat doesn’t seem so far-fetched now, does it?

Honey has such a wide range of uses that it would be unfair to not share some of the knowledge.

The Sweet Engerizer: Stop picking up the unhealthy energy drinks. Honey has the ability to give you a boost of natural energy. Going out for a work out? Pop a tablespoon of honey beforehand. Honey has been proven to boost athletic performance.

Hangover Aid: Did you party too hard last night? Can’t remember? Instead of popping ibuprofen, eat some toast smothered in honey or add some to a cup of tea. Since honey is loaded with natural fructose, it helps speed up the metabolism of alcohol.

Weight loss: Honey boosts metabolism and is overall an excellent substitute for sugar. But just like sugar, enjoy it in moderation.