Inflammation is the body’s natural defense mechanism—but chronic inflammation can contribute to all kinds of diseases. Simply put, that's why anti-inflammatory foods are so important. You are what you eat, after all, so why eat things that bring you down?

What Makes Honey Anti-Inflammatory?
Raw & unfiltered honey contains polyphenols—plant compounds that act as antioxidants. These compounds may help reduce oxidative stress and support a balanced inflammatory response. (NIH) 

Or, if that's still not quite painting a picture, take it straight from the Mayo Clinic:

Antioxidants are certain nutrients, such as vitamins C or E, or carotenoids, which may help protect cells against daily damage. As cells do their job, the way they process oxygen results in a molecule called a free radical. These molecules are unstable. As they regain stability, free radicals damage cells and DNA.

Honey's antioxidants, enzymes, pollen, and floral notes are what separate it from table sugar's empty calories. (The richer, multi-layered taste doesn't hurt either.) Swapping out a spoonful of sugar for honey is one small, anti-inflammatory step you can take toward a better diet. Honey won’t replace medicine, but it can be a delicious addition to an anti-inflammatory lifestyle.

3 Ways to Use Honey in an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
- Drizzle on oatmeal with berries and walnuts (all anti-inflammatory foods).
- Stir into green tea instead of sugar.
- Pair with turmeric, ginger, lemon juice, and 6oz hot water in a soothing tonic.

Why Raw Matters
Heating honey can destroy sensitive enzymes and compounds. Unless a honey is specifically labeled "raw honey" or "raw & unfiltered honey", it's probably missing these critical anti-inflammatory benefits.

Both Local Hive Honey and Organic Hive Honey are raw & unfiltered—keeping those anti-inflammatory compounds intact.