Greek Granny Wisdom: 7 Surprising Ways to Use Raw Honey

daisyneal
Jul 20
2 min read

Updated: Jul 30

A spoonful a day keeps the doctor, the drama, and the dry skin away.

The Sweet Benefits of Honey

You think honey is just for toast? Tell that to a Greek yiayia. According to generations of family lore, raw honey can soothe your sore throat, calm your nerves, clear your skin, and (if you’re lucky) snag you a husband.

We’ve gathered some of our favourite honey “remedies” — passed down from the mountains of Greece, where the bees know more than most doctors and no one argues with yiayia.

For Sore Throats (and Big Feelings)

One teaspoon of raw honey, straight off the spoon, can work wonders. It’s perfect for sore throats, heartache, or simply when you’re “not feeling yourself.” Bonus points if it’s stirred into hot mountain tea with a squeeze of lemon and a lecture about how you’re not wearing enough layers.

Bedtime Calmer

Yiayia swears by warm milk with a little honey to settle the nerves. Add cinnamon if you’ve had a particularly stressful day or an annoying cousin at dinner. This soothing drink can help you unwind and prepare for a restful night.

DIY Face Mask

Mix honey with a spoonful of yoghurt and apply it to your face. Wait ten minutes, then rinse. Admire your dewy, goddess-like glow. Swap your moisturiser subscription for our monthly dose of honey.

Antibacterial Magic

“She fell and grazed her knee, so I put honey on it,” said one aunt. “Then she got up, married a good man, and had three children.” Coincidence? Maybe. But honey is antibacterial, and ancient Greeks used it on wounds. We’re not saying it works, but we’re not saying it doesn’t.

The 3 PM Pep-Up

A spoonful of honey on a rice cake or apple slice is the Greek answer to an energy drink. It tastes better and won’t make your eye twitch.

Honey in Everyday Life

Real honey- raw, unfiltered, and straight from the comb- is healer, a comforter, and a secret passed down through sticky fingers and Sunday afternoon chats.

So next time you reach for the jar, remember: you’re not just sweetening your food. You’re joining an ancient tradition. And possibly curing something you didn’t even know was wrong!