After a long bout of digestive illness owed to the illustrious H.Pylori bug, I was prescribed a triple therapy of antibiotics. Unfortunately, in my case, the bug may have been eradicated but the terrible symptoms remained.
How was I to function as a support to my hard working husband, home school my three kids, and just generally get through my day, when I felt like my stomach was trying to climb through my esophagus? Everything I ate burned as it went down and inflammation ensued. The words of a wise woman rang in my ears: "Remember, food either heals or it harms, so find what heals you." So my search began.
Much to my pleasant surprise came an answer so sweet and effective that I wanted to kiss the first honeybee I could find. The product I speak of is the most amazing raw organic Manuka Honey. This tremendous bee invention comes from the Manuka tree bushes of New Zealand and is from the same family as the super healing tea tree bush.
Unlike other types of honey, the antiseptic properties in some strains of Manuka honey have a unique naturally occurring antibacterial property that remains active even when heated up.
I had never heard of Manuka honey previous to my illness, however I have since learned that it is a household name in the U.K. and is used in hospitals there to combat MRSA, aka The Super Bug.
Amongst other ailments, this remarkable honey also heals cold sores (some say better than drug store products), burns and other skin problems, inflammation, ulcers, gastritis, sore throats and so on. The people at Wedderspoon (makers of Organic Manuka Active honey) are currently involved in supplying their honey for use in various clinical trails through out Canada.
I began taking a full tablespoon of this earthy tasting honey every morning on an empty stomach, and it slipped a thick coating over my throat and stomach. It felt as though I had immediate relief as it soothed my sore insides and actually gave me a bit of an energy boost as well.
The more I eat this exceptional honey the more I appreciate its incredible depth of taste. My kids have also acquired a taste for Manuka honey and with flu season around the corner I will start their day with a teaspoonful. I am only just starting to explore its culinary aspects, but feel comfort in knowing that heat will not destroy the medicinal qualities.
You may be shocked by the sticker price, as Manuka is more expensive than regular honey's on the market. However, rest assured that its quality and complexity is worth every penny. You can find the Wedderspoon Manuka honey at Nesters Market or on line at www.wedderspoon.ca
Baked Apricot Chicken with Wild Rice
1 whole organic chicken
1 to 2 tbsp honey
1 lgarge onion, chopped
1 tsp minced garlic
1/2 tsp ground turmeric
Juice of 1 lemon
1 (6.25 oz.) pkg. quick cooking long grain and wild rice mix
1 3/4 cup hot water
1/2 cup dried apricots
1/2 cup pecan halves
Instructions
Preheat Oven to 350 degrees. Clean chicken, discarding giblets and neck. Rinse cavity well and remove excess fat; pat dry. Tie legs together. Place chicken, breast side up, in a five-quart pan. Spread honey over chicken. Sprinkle with onion, garlic, turmeric, and lemon juice. Cover and bake until cooked through. Drain off all fat and liquid. Follow instructions to cook rice plus add apricots. Mix pecans into cooked rice. Carve chicken into pieces and serve on top of the rice. Serve with a bottle of chilled New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc
