The Sweet, Natural Health Benefits of Honey

Tom Brendle at the Geist Farmers Market explains the health benefits of using natural honey.

Honey is frequently mentioned in the Bible as one of the principal things for use in a human’s life. Since ancient times it was used as a wholesome food and a helpful medicine.

For years I have questioned how to distinguish one honey from another, and how to select one that would be just right for me. Last Thursday at the Geist Farmers Market, my questions were answered when I was introduced to a very special couple, Sharon and Tom Brendle.

Brendle Honey farm is a well-known producer and distributor of Products of the Hive. Our conversation went something like this:

“Tom, what should I know when shopping for honey?”

“It’s really simple. Just like with anything else, know your source,” he stated. “I believe it is best for us to eat locally grown food as much as we can as it comes from the environment in which we live. It contains the immune stimulating properties needed for our body to live in harmony with its environment. Indeed, honey has many benefits. A mixture of honey, water and certain herbs was recommended by Hippocrates to bring down a fever. Honey can kill bacteria, disinfect wounds and sores, make us think well, feel better and be in a good mood,” he adds.

“How is this so?” I asked, showing my skepticism.

Tom and Sharon Brendle

“Honey stimulates production of endomorphins that have a powerful influence on our mood, memory, learning ability and also acts as a pain killer. It’s nature’s free gift to us as it addresses both depression and anxiety,” he answered. This comment brought me back to my childhood in the USSR. No wonder my mother gave me honey when I had a sore throat.

Sharon and Tom came up with this wonderful idea of providing Geist residents with the opportunity to get fresh, locally grown food. Their idea of offering services to their local community found profound support at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, a place Sharon and Tom are calling their spiritual home.

That is how Geist Farmers Market was born. Vendors have access to the church’s electricity, water and restroom facilities. Tom excused himself for a second and jumped in to help another vendor elevate her tent. I wasn’t the only one seeking advice from Tom that day, as I witnessed the time he took to answer questions from others seeking his advice.

I took advantage of Tom being interrupted to ask a few questions of Sharon as she created amazing handmade soaps. After listening to her professional approach and her vision on what is good for our skin, I bought a lemon grass bar. When Tom returned I asked him what his favorite honey was. He answered, “raw honey.” Needless to say, I bought it… and I love it! It’s a treat to be able to buy locally grown produce and products and have the experts on hand to answer your questions. The Geist Farmers Market is open every Thursday from 2:30-6:30 p.m.(corner of Fox & Oaklandon Road). Bring your entire family on July 1 for a special Family Night complete with live music, games, crafts, and face painting!