Honey has long had a reputation as a natural remedy for many ills, and modern science has given credence to it as a natural bacteria-fighting agent. Science also has confirmed that honey can help the skin and hair hold on to moisture, rather than drying them out. Honey soap is considered a humectant because of these properties, and it will also help keep the skin clean and clear.
A protein made by bees is what gives honey its healing powers. Throughout history, folklore has recommended honey as a treatment for sore throats, wounds and burns. The benefits of honey soap provide similar results for the body’s skin, helping to keep it free of bacteria and washing away impurities. Honey, when it is pure, organic, and straight from the hive, is itself free of impurities and one of the most natural substances available for a beauty or health regimen. Raw honey is honey that has not been subjected to modern processing methods, such as pasteurization and filtering. More of honey’s healthful properties are retained in its raw state.
Honey was once the property of royalty only. Cleopatra, for example, bathed in honey. An English queen used it on her hair to keep it healthy and shiny. A French king’s mistress applied it to her face in a beautifying mask. Ancient gods were honored with gifts of honey, and some cultures used it to embalm bodies and protect them from decay.
Today women can make or buy beauty products that combine honey with all sorts of ingredients, everything from chocolate and cucumbers to olive oil, goat’s milk, yogurt, almonds and eggs, to name just a few. In addition to honey soap, honey products include masks, scrubs, hair conditioners, skin lotions, shampoos, bath salts and bubble baths. Honey soap can be purchased from numerous retail outlets, including online vendors. Some people enjoy making their own honey soap to ensure it is as natural as possible. Others like to make their own soap because it allows them to include ingredients they prefer, such as the scents of rose, cinnamon or lavender. Homemade honey soap also is a thoughtful and pretty gift for a friend, relative or teacher.
The soothing properties of honey are well known, yet for bees the production of honey is not a relaxing endeavor. First, honeybees do not sleep. Also, a honeybee colony must visit a few million blossoms before they can produce a single pound (454 g) of honey. One pound requires the concerted effort of about 300 honeybees working for their entire lives.