Heating Honey - Why Not A Good Idea?

Author: Ivan Red Jr. Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: February 12, 2026

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

How To Consume Honey?

Consumption of honey that has undergone heat treatment not only does not bring benefits, but can also be harmful.

Consumption of a glass of warm water with honey in the morning is recommended and practiced by many. This drink helps to reduce weight and cleanse toxins in the body. Have we ever wondered if it is useful to add honey to hot water, tea or another beverage?

According to studies, the bee product benefits the body when consumed raw, as it has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In addition, the taste and nutritional qualities of the product remain intact when consumed raw. When heated to a high temperature or added to hot water or tea , honey loses its nutritional properties and in some cases can even be toxic to health.

According to Ayurveda, heated honey can have harmful effects. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Research in Ayurveda found that the pH of honey heated to 60 and 140 degrees Celsius had a significant rise in hydroxymethylfurfural levels. This substance is formed as a result of dehydration of carbohydrate-rich foods, as a reaction to the reduction of sugars .

Some amounts of the substance into which hydroxymethylfurfural is metabolized can be potentially dangerous to health.

How to consume honey?

As mentioned above, honey has the greatest nutritional value and health benefits when consumed raw. When heated, it loses its characteristic taste and aroma, which brings it closer to sugar syrup.

We could add honey to warm water and lemon juice in the morning, but the bee product should not be used for cooking.

Heating Honey - Why Not A Good Idea?

CHAPTERS (Table Of Contents)

How to consume honey?

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