Strips of clean linen dipped into melted wax were used to bind wounds, and smeared with honey to promote healing. The wax was used to waterproof leather, smooth sewing yarn, and even make a kind of primitive chewing gum. The flowers from which bees gather nectar largely determine the color, flavor, and aroma of honey. Well known sources are orange blossom, blackberry, buckwheat, sage and clover. When a flower source is not identified, the honey is a blend of different floral types.
Some beekeepers designate their blend as wildflower honey.
Usually the lighter the color, the milder the flavor. Extracted honey is liquid honey separated from the comb. It is the type most readily available and used. Comb honey is sections of the waxen comb filled with honey just as the bees stored it. Section-comb is sold from the hive in wooden frames usually weighing about 1 pound, or in round plastic holders weighing 12 ounces.