September is National Honey Month, and in celebration of this event, here are some facts from the National Honey Board that will both inform and entertain you.

• There are approximately 300 varieties of honey in the United States. They vary from water-white fireweed to rich dark amber buckwheat. In general, lighter-colored honeys are milder in flavor while darker-colored honeys are bolder in flavor. Darker honeys also tend to have a higher mineral content and antioxidant potential.
• Because of the floral sources from which honey originates, no two honeys are exactly alike in flavor or nutritional content. Since honeys may contain pollen, studies are underway to determine if eating local honey could relieve allergy symptoms.

• Honey is an natural source of energy that contains a unique mixture of glucose and fructose. Recent studies suggest that this unique mixture of sugars works best in preventing fatigue and enhancing athletic performance.
• All-natural honey is an effective treatment for minor abrasions and burns. A recent review of medical research documents its effectiveness as an antimicrobial agent.
• Research has shown that unlike most other sweeteners, honey contains small amounts of a wide array of vitamins, minerals and trace minerals as well as antioxidants.
• All-natural honey has been used a beauty product since the days of Cleopatra and it continues to be used today in manufactured and homemade products for skin and hair care. Honey is naturally hydrating and non-irritating.