The Beehive Blog
12 Best Raw Honey Types and Their Health Benefits
Raw honey is more than a natural sweetener—it’s a powerful superfood packed with nutrients and health benefits. As a beekeeper and honey enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share the 12 best raw honey varieties, each offering a distinct flavour and unique wellness perks.
What Makes Honey “The Best”?
The honest answer? The best honey is the one that is raw, unpasteurised, and unfiltered. While the flower source adds extra health benefits and flavour, the key factor is that the honey remains raw, meaning its enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients are still active.
To enjoy the full benefits, always choose raw honey from trustworthy beekeepers who practise ethical and sustainable beekeeping.
1. Acacia Honey
Flavour: Mild and delicate
Source: Acacia tree blossoms
Benefits: Supports digestion, soothes sore throats
2. Manuka Honey
Flavour: Strong, earthy, slightly bitter
Source: Manuka tree (New Zealand)
Benefits: Powerful antibacterial properties, promotes wound healing.
3. Lavender Honey
Flavour: Floral, soft, aromatic
Source: Lavender plant
Benefits: Promotes relaxation, supports restful sleep
4. Orange Blossom Honey
Flavour: Light, fruity, citrusy
Source: Orange tree flowers
Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supports immunity.
5. Eucalyptus Honey
Flavour: Bold, herbal, slightly medicinal
Source: Eucalyptus tree
Benefits: Eases coughs, helps with respiratory infections
6. Linden Tree Honey
Flavour: Very sweet with mild bitterness
Source: Linden (Lime) tree blossoms
Benefits: Immune support, throat soothing, helps with mild asthma
6. Linden Tree Honey
Flavour: Very sweet with mild bitterness
Source: Linden (Lime) tree blossoms
Benefits: Immune support, throat soothing, helps with mild asthma
7. Buckwheat Honey
Flavour: Dark, strong, malty
Source: Buckwheat flowers
Benefits: High in antioxidants, promotes heart health.
8. Heather Honey
Flavour: Earthy, rich, slightly bitter
Source: Heather plant
Benefits: Natural antibiotic, may help with seasonal allergies.
9. Wildflower Honey
Flavour: Varies by season and floral mix
Source: Mixed wildflowers
Benefits: Immune-boosting, supports gut health due to diverse pollen content
10. Chestnut Honey
Flavour: Bold, nutty, slightly bitter
Source: Chestnut trees
Benefits: High in minerals, supports energy and endurance.
11. Tupelo Honey
Flavour: Buttery, smooth, light
Source: Tupelo tree blossoms (USA)
Benefits: Low glycaemic index, suitable for people with diabetes
12. Sidr Honey
Flavour: Herbal, thick, intensely sweet
Source: Sidr tree (Ziziphus spina-christi)
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, traditionally used in healing rituals
Final Thoughts on the Best Raw Honey Types
These 12 best raw honey varieties offer more than just unique flavours—they deliver real health benefits. From immune support to digestive aid and natural relaxation, there’s a honey type for every wellness goal.
As a small-batch producer, I encourage you to:
Always choose raw, unprocessed honey.
Support ethical beekeepers
Explore and appreciate the diversity of floral sources.
By doing so, you not only enjoy the health benefits of raw honey but also contribute to bee conservation and biodiversity.
Author:
Princess Bee Honey Co.
