What Is ‘Milk And Honey’ Anyway?

Perhaps you’ve heard of this phrase being mentioned in casual conversation, or in an article you’ve read. Unsure what it actually means? Read on to find out more about the interesting origins and meanings behind this odd phrase.

Defining ‘Milk And Honey’

According to the dictionary, the phrase ‘milk and honey’ refers to a situation where a person is very contented and has plenty of money. Sample sentences include:

1. Truly a land flowing with milk and honey.
2. Many Mexicans regard the United States as a land of milk and honey.

These examples tell us that ‘the land of milk and honey’ often refers to an area with an abundance of wealth and prosperity. How interesting!

Origins Of The Phrase

The phrase actually has biblical roots. In Exodus, when God instructs Moses to lead his people, the oppressed Hebrew slaves of Egypt, out of bondage and into freedom, he promises them their own land. He does not tell them exactly what land it is, only describing it as a land flowing with milk and honey. From then on, the phrase was often used to refer to Israel, or God’s promised land.

In contemporary and literary uses, it probably refers to the previous definition.

Consuming Milk And Honey

So, is having milk and honey a good pairing? We’d give it 5/5 stars. By combining milk and honey, you get a warm, creamy, luscious drink that’s wonderful for cold days. Furthermore, you get to enjoy the many health benefits of the honey you’re drinking.

Some benefits include:

• Improved digestion: Honey can help to promote the growth of ‘good’ bacteria in the gut, helping to chase away bloating, constipation and cramps.
• Easing insomnia: The consumption of milk and honey has long been used as a remedy for insomnia and difficulty in sleeping. Although they are both good at promoting sleep, taken together their effect is compounded. Consuming honey makes the brain release insulin along with the release of a compound called tryptophan. Tryptophan is eventually converted to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that increases the feelings of wellness. Serotonin is eventually converted into melatonin which is responsible for helping us sleep.
• Promote bone health: Milk is rich in calcium necessary for the growth of strong bones. However, the intake of calcium by itself isn’t merely enough. Honey and its enzymes are effective in transporting nutrients in the body. It improves the uptake of calcium by the body which makes drinking milk so much more effective. It is especially useful for people as they age and their bones start losing density and strength.
• Heal any respiratory ailments: Honey, especially manuka honey, helps to ease many respiratory issues due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. This is due to the methylglyoxal compound found in manuka honey. Have a cup of milk and manuka honey can be a great way to naturally cure the tickle at the back of your throat.
• Improves concentration and energy levels: Honey, at the end of the day, is a sugar that the body can break down for energy. Having a glass of milk and honey, the sugars in the honey, as well as the fat and protein in the milk, can help you to get the boost of energy you need to tackle the work before you.

Recipe: Warm Spiced Milk And Honey

Want to make a simple cup of milk and honey a little more exciting? We’ve got just the recipe for you.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 whole vanilla pod – sliced open
• 1 whole cinnamon stick
• 4 whole cloves
• 2 whole cardamon
• 1 tablespoon honey
• whipped cream – for topping (optional)
• ground cinnamon – for topping (optional)

Instructions

1. Add the milk and spices into a small pot on medium-high heat. Heat the milk, stirring, until just under boiling. Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for about 10 minutes for the spices to infuse into the milk.
2. Mix in a tablespoon of honey. Pour into 2 mugs and serve immediately. Top with whipped cream and ground cinnamon, if desired.

Conclusion

Milk and honey is an excellent combination that you won’t want to miss out on. We hope this article has allowed you to understand a little more about the origins of the phrase and the benefits of this interesting food combination.