Raw honey is the concentrated nectar of flowers that comes straight from the extractor. It is characterized by fine textured crystals and appears milky. It will usually granulate or crystallize to a margarine-like consistency after a month or two. It is unheated, pure, and unprocessed; and like uncooked vegetables, all the natural vitamins, enzymes and other nutritional elements are preserved.

Most honeys found in the supermarket are not raw honey but "commercial" honey, which has been heated and filtered so that it looks cleaner and smoother, more appealing on the shelf, and easier to handle and package. When honey is heated, its delicate aromas, yeast and enzymes which are responsible for activating vitamins and minerals in the body system are partially destroyed. Such honey is not as nutritious as raw honey.

Raw honey has a high antioxidant level and is the healthiest choice amongst the various forms of honey. When mixed with ginger and lemon juice, it relieves nausea and supplies energy. Many people also use it to help relieve allergies.

Raw honey has many uses. You can spread it on bread and waffles, use it in the place of sugar, put it on cereal, dissolve it in hot coffee or tea, or use it for cooking and baking.