If you always keep honey on hand at home, it might be time to revamp your habit and go raw. Raw honey isn't filtered, strained, or heated above natural hive temperatures, a process used in conventional honey production that can destroy the beneficial enzymes, nutrients, and antioxidants. Here are three reasons to pick up a fresh jar.

Boosts immunity: The phytonutrients in raw honey have antibacterial and antiviral properties [1] that can boost your immune system and fight off bugs. Regularly stirring some in a cup of hot tea or squeezing some on your breakfast oatmeal can help keep your body feeling strong all Winter long.

Heal boo-boos: You might be surprised to learn that raw honey has antibacterial and wound-healing properties [2]. Applying a thin layer to a minor wound or burn can help it heal with less scabbing or scarring.

Calms coughs: Skip the medicine cabinet, and open up your pantry. Studies have shown that honey is just as effective as suppressing cough symptoms [3] as over-the-counter medication. The next time you can't kick a cough, sip on hot water, lemon, and a little raw honey, so you can get relief sooner.

When shopping for raw honey, buy organic; you'll be getting honey that is harvested with care in isolated, untouched areas filled with wildflowers. Also, keep in mind that children under the age of 1 should not consume raw honey since there is a risk of infant botulism [4].