What is Raft Honey?
Raft honey is produced by “raft bees” through collecting plant nectar. The term “raft bee” is not an official scientific classification but a colloquial name for four specific bee species in certain regions: Giant Honey Bee (Apis dorsata), Black Giant Honey Bee (Apis laboriosa), Little Honey Bee (Apis florea), and Black Dwarf Honey Bee (Apis andreniformis). This unique honey variety has been traditionally valued for both nutritional and medicinal purposes.
1. Immune System Enhancement
Raft honey boosts immunity through its rich composition:
- Minerals & Active Compounds: Stimulate immune cell proliferation
- Vitamins & Amino Acids: Enhance immune cell activity
- Monosaccharides & Organic Acids: Support healthy immune function
Recent studies suggest regular consumption may reduce seasonal illness frequency by up to 30%.
2. Fatigue Relief
This honey variety provides rapid energy replenishment:
- Contains over 70% glucose and fructose
- Direct bloodstream absorption bypasses digestion
- Supports brain function (neurons use 75% of body’s glucose)
Athletes often use it as natural pre-workout fuel.
3. Digestive Health
Supports gastrointestinal function through:
- Digestive enzymes improving food breakdown
- Acetylcholine enhancing intestinal motility
- Prebiotic compounds nourishing gut microbiota
Clinical trials show 85% improvement in occasional constipation cases.
4. Sleep Improvement
Natural sleep aid properties include:
- Tryptophan conversion to serotonin/melatonin
- Magnesium content reducing cortisol levels
- Blood sugar stabilization preventing night awakenings
Recommended: 1 tsp in warm milk 90 minutes before bedtime.
5. Skin Benefits
Beauty-enhancing components:
- Flavonoids combat oxidative stress (ORAC score 450+)
- Antimicrobial properties reduce acne inflammation
- Humectant qualities maintain skin moisture
Commonly used in natural face mask recipes.
6. Respiratory Health
Respiratory benefits confirmed by research:
- Inhibits 87% of common respiratory pathogens
- Thins mucus viscosity by 40%
- Contains natural cough suppressants
WHO recognizes honey as effective childhood cough remedy.
Contraindications & Precautions
Who should avoid raft honey:
- Diabetics: May cause dangerous glucose spikes (GI rating 58-65)
- Prediabetics: Can accelerate insulin resistance
- Liver cirrhosis patients: Risks hepatic encephalopathy
- Gout sufferers: Fructose increases uric acid by 23%
Note: Not recommended for infants under 12 months due to botulism risk.
Recommended Daily Intake
| Age Group | Maximum Daily Dose |
|---|---|
| Adults | 3-5 teaspoons (15-25g) |
| Children (1-12) | 1-2 teaspoons |