Catch the Buzz: Revised and Updated Revolutionary HONEY Book Coming to You!

 The Healing Powers of Honey: Revised and Updated: A Complete Guide to Nature's Remarkable Nectar

PRE-ORDER  

HEALTH AND HONEY BREAKTHROUGHS, HONEY BEES VANISHING, AND HEART-HEALTHY FRESH RECIPES FOR YEAR-ROUND WELLNESS!

Cal Orey

FRONTLIST | Aug 25, 2026 | On Sale Date: Aug 25, 2026

9780806545721, 0806545720

Trade Paperback

$18.95 USD, $24.95 CAD

Returnable: Y

320 pages

Series: Healing Powers

9 in H | 6 in W | 0.8 lb Wt

Status: Forthcoming

Sales Rights: World

• UPDATED WITH NEW MATERIAL: About 25% of this edition is new and updated material, including new recipes and remedies; resource lists; expert commentary; a new foreword; the latest research findings on honey's health benefits, such as its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties; new studies in the Mediterranean diet, heart health, immune system; data on our endangered honey bees and critical issue of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD); and heartwarming and adventurous anecdotes.
• A PROVEN SUCCESS : The Healing Powers of Honey has achieved #1 Top Rated status on Amazon, demonstrating an irrefutable track record of sales and reader satisfaction. It has sold around 20,000 copies in print alone—and the e-book is a steady seller.
• WORLDWIDE BACKLIST BESTSELLER! Cal Orey’s Healing Powers books have sold hundreds of thousands of copies, been translated into a dozen languages, and landed on bestseller lists across the world. The Healing Powers of Vinegar has sold more than 200,000 copies, has more than 700 ratings on Amazon, and was the #1 bestselling health book in South Korea. All previous Healing Powers books were picked up by NewsMax.
• SWEET SOLUTION TO SURGING DEMAND: · During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health. As the global honey market, fueled by consumer demand for natural sweeteners, surges towards a projected 15 billion by 2032, the need for a comprehensive and updated guide to honey’s health benefits has never been greater.
• NEW FOREWORD: The new foreword from Jonny Bowden, Ph.D, bestselling author of 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth, is an expert endorsement that adds authority, credibility, and prestige.
• NOW WITH MANUKA HONEY: Manuka honey, known for its unique antibacterial properties, holds a premium position in the honey market and is a new addition to this edition.
• NATURAL REMEDIES AND RECIPES. Heart disease remains a leading cause of death globally. The American Heart Association reports that cardiovascular diseases (CVD), including heart disease, are the number one cause of death worldwide. This underscores the continued relevance of the book’s content on heart health.·With ongoing health concerns, there’s heightened focus on immune health. (COVID variants and other viruses continue to be important issues.) Honey’s immune-boosting properties will resonate with readers seeking natural ways to support their health.
• HOME CURES AS AN ALTERNATIVE TO OTC MEDICINE. Readers interested in homeopathic remedies and natural cures will love Cal Orey’s more than 50 home cures that combat digestive woes to skin woes, while boosting immunity.
• AN EXPANDED MARKET:  The inclusion of new research on Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) and honey bees broadens the book’s appeal to environmentalists, beekeepers, and those concerned about sustainable superfood practices.
• CONNECTED AND PASSIONATE AUTHOR: Cal Orey is a frequent guest on live and internet national radio stations, and the media has covered her work in national magazines including Woman’s World, Complete Woman, Energy Times, MSN Health and Fitness, and other online publications. She has promoted her Healing Powers books as a News Segment guest on Coast to Coast AM and has a weekly column in the Tahoe Daily Tribune (online and hard copy) and a monthly column for Oracle Visionary (online and hard copy).

Latest Buzz: Honey Book Author Loves Sticky Scene in "The Pitt"

 By Cal Orey, M.A.--Author of #1 Hit The Healing Powers of Honey (1-Day Deal 1.99 on Amazon & Kobo...Groundbreaking 1st ed. and pre-order 2nd ed.--revolutionary and shocking stories!)

Last night I watched the popular show "The Pitt," episode 3, and with interest I viewed a nurse observing a patient's leg burn treated with honey. Dr. Robby explains that while honey has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it isn't suitable for deep burns and shouldn't be the first treatment. But note, it can be used on minor burns if the skin isn't broken and the burn is less than 2 inches in diameter. Also, honey dressings may be more effective than standard treatments for superficial burns. (Source: Comic Book Club). And yeah, this scene is realistic, sort of.

As the author of the bestselling book "The Healing Powers of Honey," I can tell you more than a decade ago I discovered the virtues of honey and treatment for burns when I interviewed the late renowned Dr. Peter Molan. The doctor explained to me how hospitals do indeed use medicinal honey for treatment of wounds.

Q: Do you feel any large drug company in America may produce a manuka honey product and sell it as a prescribed medicine to hospitals and clinics?

A: Jars of manuka honey on sale in the USA are not approved by the FDA for any therapeutic use, although they are legitimately sold as a food just like any other honey. However, there are various brands of manuka honey on sale with FDA approval for treating wounds. Some are tubes of manuka honey, and some are wound dressings containing manuka honey. All are sterilized products. It is smaller medical companies producing these, but large drug companies are now showing an interest. 

Author's Note: Due to the strong research backing Manuka honey, the overwhelming evidence of its success in hospitals, and researchers with doctors pushing for its approval, the FDA finally approved Manuka honey in 2007 for medical use.

In the revised and updated 2nd edition of the popular honey book, the author includes more natural healing cures.

Overview

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!

DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive! 

“This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health.” —Dr. Will Clower, author of The French Don’t Diet Plan

Editorial Reviews

Praise for The Healing Powers Books by Cal Orey

"The cure is in the cupboard with this book's insights that will tempt your taste buds--and revive you from head to toe." —Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of Radical Metabolism on The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices

"In The Healing Powers of Superfoods, we're thankfully re-discovering these amazingly healthy foods again today." —Dr. Will Clower, CEO Mediterranean Wellness on The Healing Powers of Superfoods

"A practical, health-oriented book that everyone who wants to stay healthy and live longer should read." —Patricia Bragg, N.D., Ph.D., author of Apple Cider Vinegar

From the Publisher

Latest Buzz: Honey Book Author Loves Sticky Scene in "The Pitt"

By Cal Orey, M.A.--Author of #1 Hit The Healing Powers of Honey

Last night I watched the popular show "The Pitt," episode 3, and with interest I viewed a nurse observing a patient's leg burn treated with honey. Dr. Robby explains that while honey has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it isn't suitable for deep burns and shouldn't be the first treatment. But note, it can be used on minor burns if the skin isn't broken and the burn is less than 2 inches in diameter. Also, honey dressings may be more effective than standard treatments for superficial burns. (Source: Comic Book Club). And yeah, this scene is realistic, sort of.

As the author of the bestselling book "The Healing Powers of Honey," I can tell you more than a decade ago I discovered the virtues of honey and treatment for burns when I interviewed the late renowned Dr. Peter Molan. The doctor explained to me how hospitals do indeed use medicinal honey for treatment of wounds.

Q: Do you feel any large drug company in America may produce a manuka honey product and sell it as a prescribed medicine to hospitals and clinics?

A: Jars of manuka honey on sale in the USA are not approved by the FDA for any therapeutic use, although they are legitimately sold as a food just like any other honey. However, there are various brands of manuka honey on sale with FDA approval for treating wounds. Some are tubes of manuka honey, and some are wound dressings containing manuka honey. All are sterilized products. It is smaller medical companies producing these, but large drug companies are now showing an interest. 

Author's Note: Due to the strong research backing Manuka honey, the overwhelming evidence of its success in hospitals, and researchers with doctors pushing for its approval, the FDA finally approved Manuka honey in 2007 for medical use.

In the revised and updated 2nd edition of the popular honey book, the author includes more natural healing cures.

Overview

Learn how to boost your immune system, combat ailments, and so much more, all with the natural power of honey—the pantry staple and sustainable superfood that’s also the green choice for healthy living, homeopathic remedies, and natural cures.

A newly revised and updated edition of the #1 hit, now with new research, heart-healthy recipes, honey bee data, and home cures!

DISCOVER HONEY’S AMAZING BEE-HEALTHY POWERS
Did you know? . . .

Eating honey, Mother Nature’s ancient medicine, can still work its healing magic and help lower the risk of disease—adding quality and years to your life—at any age!

The buzz: Consumers are seeking healthy alternatives to refined sugar due to concerns about obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the #1 killer.

Yes! Raw, unprocessed honey is more popular than ever before and is touted a “superfood” as it replaces unhealthy table sugar and artificial sweeteners—helping to combat the skyrocketing rise in chronic ailments and life-threatening diseases.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, beekeepers experienced a surge in demand for the disease-fighting, antioxidant-rich “apocalyptic food” widely believed to boost immune health.

Increasing threats to honey bees’ survival may harm the planet’s nourishing superfoods that you love to eat—such as fruits and nuts—that the honey bee pollinates.

Honey, known as Mother Nature’s “nectar of the gods,” is an ancient remedy noted in the Bible and used for centuries to quell a cough, soothe a sore throat, energize you, and even calm frazzled nerves due to stressors such as post-COVID-19 virus variants and climate change health effects.

Enjoy gripping and adventurous survival stories about honey bees and humans as well as fascinating reasons why the popularity of honey is soaring, Manuka honey medicinal uses are surging, and herbal flavored varietals are trending. You’ll also love new heart-healthy recipes with honey twists such as Whipped Ricotta Toast with Lemon Thyme Honey, Hot Honey Glazed Turkey Loaf, and Turmeric Honey Immunity Booster, plus buzzworthy home cures thanks to honey’s gifts (including super “bee foods” like propolis and royal jelly) from the hive! 

“This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet. Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health.” —Dr. Will Clower, author of The French Don’t Diet Plan

Editorial Reviews

Praise for The Healing Powers Books by Cal Orey

"The cure is in the cupboard with this book's insights that will tempt your taste buds--and revive you from head to toe." —Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of Radical Metabolism on The Healing Powers of Herbs and Spices

"In The Healing Powers of Superfoods, we're thankfully re-discovering these amazingly healthy foods again today." —Dr. Will Clower, CEO Mediterranean Wellness on The Healing Powers of Superfoods

"A practical, health-oriented book that everyone who wants to stay healthy and live longer should read." —Patricia Bragg, N.D., Ph.D., author of Apple Cider Vinegar

From the Publisher

Beat SAD with Happy Foods... Light, Plants, and Furry Friends

  7 HAPPY FOODS TO BEAT TAHOE’S WINTER BLUES

How to Tackle 

"Blue Monday" aka the 3rd Monday in January

 By Cal Orey, M.A.

As a long-time resident of Lake Tahoe, in the late spring to fall I tend to my yellow aspens and red maples, bask in the warm sunshine on the deck, and walk my Aussie along scenic trails. But as Old Man Winter rolls in, the first storms hit, and suddenly, the sun is nowhere to be found. The slain piles up, and with it comes a wave of melancholy for sunny days. I realize how much I miss those happy days in the gardens with pots of wild lavender plants; and the lack of sunlight begins to affect my mood.

Welcome to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of blues that hits during early winter when daylight hours are shorter. In places like Tahoe, where slushy snowfall can be slippery and sometimes block out sunlight, you, too, may feel waves of gloom and doom… And late January through February can be the coldest and cruelest months of all...

 So, can happy foods come to the rescue? Sure, superfoods like these seven can help boost feel-good brain chemicals--dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin-- during darker months in Tahoe, and might indeed brighten your day!

 1. Fatty Fish:  Salmon (Atlantic type is available here) is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to boost serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin helps regulate mood and higher levels can lead to feelings of happiness and well-being. Try: Add seasons like rosemary, thyme, parsley (fresh or dried) and lemon slices for flavor.

2. Walnuts. Nuts are high in magnesium, which play a role in regulating serotonin production. A deficiency in magnesium has been linked to anxiety and the blues. Try: Munch on 1/4 cup walnuts mixed with 1/4 cup raisins as a quick snack.

3. Kale and Spinach. These green veggies are packed with a B-vitamin that helps make dopamine—that brain chemical linked to pleasure. Higher dopamine levels can improve mood and motivation. Try: A ready-made kale mix or raw spinach salad and add fresh tomatoes with a splash of red wine vinegar and olive oil.

4. Whole Grains. Think fortified whole grain cereal like oatmeal that help stabilize blood sugar levels, which can prevent mood swings. Whole grains also promote serotonin due to their fiber content, leading to improved mood. Try: Eat a bowl fortified whole grain cereal (I like Total) and add fresh fruit, and the fortified sunshine vitamin D and calcium-fortified organic low-fat milk.

5. Berries. Blueberries and strawberries are rich in antioxidants that fight oxidative stress in the brain, lowering symptoms of winter blues. They support overall brain health, contributing to better mood. Try: Savor 1/2 cup fresh berries plain or mix into 1 cup of low sugar yogurt.

6. Coffee. Ah, java can boost mood by boosting dopamine levels due to caffeine's stimulating effects on the nervous system. Moderation is key. Lose sugar, cream, and whip...Try: Brew a cup of premium blend and add a splash of vitamin D-fortified organic low-fat milk.

7. Potatoes: Taters contain carbs that help increase serotonin; they also provide vitamin B6, which is essential for a calming feel-good effect which can boost mood and help sleep. Try: Bake a russet potato and flavor with chives, black pepper, and a sprinkle of Parm shavings.

 So, I, and you, too, may dread SAD during Tahoe's winters due to reduced sunlight from cloud cover, but embracing happy foods can boost your overall mood and well-being until springtime rolls in.

  LIGHTEN UP!

·         Get outdoors in the sunshine on warmer days.

·         Exercise will make you feel better.

·         Open all blinds during the daytime.

·         Place cozy throws on furniture, warm comforters on beds.

·         Live in rooms full of light and amusement.

·         Layer clothing.

·         Stay hydrated with water and herbal teas.

 CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, romance, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws. (Book 2) Time Traveler Tabby, and a thrilling co-authored sci-fi series--The Ghost Ships to be released this winter.  The Healing Powers of Honey, 2nd ed. is coming this summer (pre-order); The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3rd ed. is in progress.

Achoo! Extreme Dander & Dust

 Mastering Extreme Dander & Dust

 Secrets to Quell Pesky Symptoms

By Cal Orey, M.A.

Woke up to the usual furry alarm clocks: a double-coated Australian Shepherd on my feet and a big orange really fluffy tabby cat using my side as a heating pad. While their morning greeting were heartwarming, my throat felt like sandpaper, and I destroyed the cozy scene with an “achoo!” twice. “A cold?” I pondered. A quick peek at a purple bar appearing in AccuWeather’s health section for South Lake Tahoe confirmed the true culprits: Extreme Dander and Dust. So, instead of braving allergy symptoms, I uncovered the secrets to a less sneezy-filled existence.

Yeah, dander and dust can affect people of all ages. Adds the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, seniors and elderly with existing respiratory conditions like asthma or allergies, may feel more than less symptoms. Kids, too, can be susceptible due to their developing immune systems and smaller airways, points out American Academy of Pediatrics.

In a region with dry, cold air, such as Lake Tahoe, dander and dust can be worse because dry air can suspend these particles and irritate mucous membranes, triggering warning signs like a sore throat, sneezing, itchy eyes, and watery eyes.

Easy Checklist

Here, must-have tips from the AAAAI, and my first-hand experience from living in the mountains:

ü  Use a humidifier: A cool-mist humidifier can add moisture to the air, which helps to soothe irritated airways and prevent mucous membranes from drying out.

ü  Turn on an air purifier (or two): An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove dander, dust, and other allergens from the air in bedrooms or living areas.

ü  Vacuum with a HEPA filter vacuum and dust. Capture dust and dander from surfaces.

ü  Wash bedding regularly: Wash sheets/comforters in hot water to kill dust mites and remove dander.

ü  Manage Pet Dander. Wipe pets with a damp cloth to reduce dander they shed.    

ü  Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water and tea can help keep your throat moist and thin mucus, easing a raspy throat.

ü  Medications: Over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal sprays, and eye drops can alleviate symptoms.

By using these pet smart tips, you can deal with dander and dust—and enjoy the cuddly fur kids--even during dry, cold Tahoe winter days.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series. The new, revised 2nd ed. of a popular Healing Powers book, 2026 is ready for pre-order, and The Healing Powers of Olive Oil, 3^rd ed. is in progress.   She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is www.calorey.com

The Big Chill on Book Signings

 By Cal Orey

Over the decades I've been an author at dozens and dozens of book signings, up and down the West Coast, from Seattle to Los Angeles, Vegas and Canada! It's a gamble each time.

Some book events I've teamed with well-known people featured in my books.  We were greeted by TV cameras, radio station hosts, a microphone and rows of people in the audience. Yeah, it boosted the ego. Other signings? Guide dogs to adoption cats upstaged me, the author, and nobody wanted me to speak out or sign a book. Not one. Or one customer would talk to me and not leave like an unwanted fan. You just never know what's going to happen at a book signing--and the thing is, I continue to get booked and go on the road for the thrill of the unknown...

One Saint Patrick’s Day, for instance, I took a leap of faith and drove over the snow shrouded mountain (with my Australian shepherd in tow and survival food) to attend a book discussion/signing for number six, the Healing Powers series tea tome.  So much for lucky holidays and numbers, I thought. The roads were icy, cars were moving at a snail’s pace, and a couple of times I mumbled, “I’m turning back.”

After all, Stephen King made an appearance. "How can I follow an act like that?" Not a chance. Ironically, the bookstore manager called me two days before my book signing. Her news was that my box of more than 40 books sold out. I should have called it a signing...But no, I offered to make the trek and bring more tea books.

Knowing I was stocked up on granola bars, salt and vinegar potato chips, bottled water, and canine chow seemed a bit calming for a snow day raining on my parade. While there were a few close skidding out of control moments, no “Misery” car crash for this food book series author. 
On the way home, I wondered, “Why didn’t I bake chewy cookies and bring tea?”  A sobering flashback of hitchhiking in my twenties through
a blizzard in Wyoming with my black Lab (not a snow-loving dog) paid me a visit and reminded me, "This too shall pass." We survived--and this time around, too.

Worse, the manager served up iced tea and bits of cookies. It looked like a Jim Jones Kool-Aid event. I was embarrassed. Why not serve hot tea and petite scones? After an hour or less--I left and rescued my pooch. If my books sold on their own, they'll sell again, I thought.

Back in the cozy cabin I made a fire, brewed a fresh cup of hot chamomile (two cups, actually), and cuddled with my action-oriented Aussie and zen-like Siamese. After a day of adventure, cravings for fresh coconut macaroons were on my mind. 
After all, it’s still winter-like weather in the Sierra and a home-baked cookie (filling the house with a sweet aroma) paired with an over-sized cup of my favorite beverage is super comforting and takes me to a place I love. This recipe is inspired by my new tea book The Healing Powers of Tea (infused with soul, thanks to pro chef recipes and gritty, heartwarming stories, and tearooms I visited both in and out of the country during research in Tealand).

Snowflake Cookies

5 tablespoons whole wheat flour (good for high altitude so cookies don’t spread in the oven)

¼ cup granulated white sugar

6 ounces sweetened condensed milk

1 capful each almond extract and pure vanilla extract

7-8 ounces (approximately 2 ½ cups) sweetened coconut, premium

2 egg whites

1 teaspoon lemon or orange rind (optional)

Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting) (optional)

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, milk, extracts and coconut. Set aside. In a mixing bowl beat egg whites until stiff. Fold in coconut mixture. Add orange rind. Use 1/3 cup ice cream scoop or 1 teaspoon (shaped like a Hershey’s chocolate drop), and place cookie dough on a cookie sheet (parchment paper is nice to use to avoid sticking). Bake at 325 degrees for approximately 15-20 minutes or till bottoms are golden and cookies are firm. Remove immediately. Dust cookies with confectioners’ sugar. Makes about 10-12 cookies; depending on size.  Store in airtight container and put in fridge or freezer.

(Tip: I cut the recipe in half because these cookies do contain sugar and fat. If you love chocolate, melt white or dark chocolate chips in the microwave for about 30 seconds, stir, 30 more seconds till melted. Dip on one side of the cookie or on the bottom.)

While the drive in a post-snowstorm wasn’t as horrific as I had thought it could be, the chips were super stress reducers, but herbal tea and warm homemade cookies would have been more soothing. Next time around during a drive in the snow or rain, I’ll pack a thermos of tea and snowflake cookies.

--Cal Orey, M.A., is an author and journalist. Her books include the book series (Vinegar, Olive Oil, Chocolate, Honey, Coffee, Tea, Superfoods, Essential Oils, and Herbs & Spices) published by Kensington and available at fine bookstores everywhere. (The collection has been featured by One Spirit, Literary Guild, and the Good Cook book clubs.)  Her website is www.calorey.com Also, the Gift Book is offered by newsmax.com/tea

It's National Hot Tea Month! A Cup of Wellness for Superbugs

  TEA(s) with Your Honey for Winter Wellness: Best Matches

 By Cal Orey

For centuries, people all around the world have enjoyed the simple, soothing pleasures of a good cup of tea with a good teaspoon of honey, and nowadays there is more reason to so do. Tea(s)--all kinds--especially with honey, but together they pack a punch of nutritional and health benefits. For more information, grab a copy of The Healing Powers of Honey and The Healing Powers of Tea books by Cal Orey. And January is National Hot Tea Month and honey will get you through colds, flu, virus symptoms!

           Medical doctors, nutritionists, scientists and beekeepers are now confirming what healers have been saying for since biblical times--teas and honeys have a variety of healing powers.

             Here are my favorite tea and honey marriages--but there are infinite combinations for both you and me to try. There is no right or wrong combination and what's sweet to you makes honey-tea beverages a sweet sip.

1. Black Tea:  The first tea I was introduced to was basic black tea--which does contain caffeine--and I have enjoyed it plain but realized it did need a sweet flavor boost to it.  Also, Earl Grey and English breakfast teas (perfect for an Irish breakfast, complete with fried potatoes, scrambled eggs, and scones) are part of the Black Tea group.

Best Honey Matches:  Basswood has a distinct flavor that I've used in plain yogurt for a rich flavor and it can give black tea a kick, too. Sourwood boasts a caramel taste that can make a common black tea come to life with taste. Earl Grey teams well with avocado, blueberry, and eucalyptus honeys, too. It's more exotic and exciting than just a simple all-purpose clover honey that comes without pleasant surprises.  

2. Green Tea:  Touted for its wide array of health virtues, this Asian tea does contain caffeine, like black tea, but not as much. It's an acquired taste and that's where honey comes into play so you can get the best of taste and nutritional benefits. 

Best Honey Matches:  Blueberry honey has a fruity taste which can give a nice kick to green tea, not the most flavorful tea.  Sage honey is mild, a California favorite of mine that brings out the best of green tea.

3.  Fruit Tea--Welcome to lemon, orange, rose hips, and apple teas. These fruity teas are sweet and sometimes tart, which call for a honey sidekick.

Best Honey Matches:  Mild flavored honeys such as sage and alfalfa brings out the best in fruit teas because it doesn't overpower the fruity taste but maintains the integrity of the fruit flavor.

4. Herbal Tea--Herbal teas come from a variety of plants other than the tea plant. They are made from the leaves, berries, flowers, fruits and bark of herbs and spices.

Although most herbal teas do not contain the antioxidant properties of real tea, they do possess other good-for-you compounds that can enhance your health and well-being. There is a wide range of herbal teas, including ginseng, cinnamon, licorice, and mint.

Rooibos (roy-boss) is the "new" herbal tea on the block--that is often called "Red Tea." Like green and black teas, this tea contains antioxidants that make it heart-healthy and immune-enhancing--and it's caffeine free.

Best Honey Matches: Teaming earthy and warm herbal teas go well with a mild alfalfa, clover, orange blossom, and sage honeys--common honeys that complement distinct herbal flavors. 

5. Oolong Tea--This tea, popular in Asian countries, contains health perks of both black and green teas. A robust flavored-tea that can have a sweet taste lends to different honeys. 

Best Honey Matches: Oolong, not a tea familiar to me, was easy to try with a friendly California orange blossom honey with its citrusy sweet taste. Another oolong mate is tupelo honey its light amber color and herbal, fruity flavors.

6. White Tea--And last but not least welcome to this pale tea. Found in China it is believed to rank number one for its antioxidants. It's a bit sweet and mellow. It's the new tea on the block for tea lovers.

Best Honey Matches:  Fireweed honey is light colored and smooth, like white tea--the two complement each other. Wildflower, one of my favorite mild honeys also goes nicely with white tea.

            As a devout tea drinker, I believe your choice of honey and tea is a personal choice--like pairing dark chocolate with different fruits, herbs and spices. The selection also depends on the season to your mood. But popular and friendly honeys, such as clover and orange blossom are suitable any time, any place because they are not too strong and will not overpower teas--all types--and you can't go wrong for yourself or if you're serving other people.

Excerpt: From The Healing Powers of Honey by Cal Orey, published by Kensington Books, mass market format 2018. All rights reserved.