Manuka honey is made in New Zealand and Australia by bees that pollinate the native leptospermum scoparium bush. Advocates say it can treat wound infections and other conditions.
Healing Power of Honey
Honey, used since ancient times for its healing properties, continues to be validated by modern science. However, it wasn’t until the late 19th century that its medicinal benefits were systematically studied.
Researchers began to explore honey’s antibacterial properties, leading to a deeper understanding of how it can combat infections and aid in wound healing. Modern studies have confirmed these findings, highlighting honey’s effectiveness in treating wounds, soothing coughs, and providing antioxidant benefits. Manuka honey also has an anti-inflammatory property that can help ease pain and inflammation.
However, not all honey is the same. The antibacterial quality of honey depends on the type of honey as well as when and how it’s harvested. Some kinds may be 100 times more potent than others.
Components of Manuka Honey
Hydrogen peroxide provides most honey with its antibiotic properties. However, some honey types, such as Manuka Honey, possess additional unique antimicrobial qualities.
A key antibacterial component of Manuka Honey is methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO originates from the conversion of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is found in high concentrations in the nectar of Manuka flowers.
The potency of Manuka Honey is linked to its MGO concentration – the higher the MGO rating, the stronger the antibacterial effect.
Manuka Honey producers use a scale known as UMF ™ (Unique Manuka Factor) to rate its potency. This rating reflects the concentration of three signature compounds: MGO, DHA and leptosperin. To be considered therapeutically potent, Manuka Honey needs a UMF ™ rating of 10 or higher.
In fact, when a UMF rating is 5 or below, it suggests a lower concentration and may be more likely to be blended with other types of honey, rather than being truly monofloral Manuka Honey.
How Manuka Honey is Used?
The main medical use of Manuka Honey is for wound healing and soothing a cough or sore throat. For wound care, it is applied directly to cuts, burns, and ulcers due to its antibacterial properties, which help prevent infections and promote healing. The honey’s high viscosity also creates a protective barrier that keeps wounds moist and aids in tissue regeneration.
In treating coughs and sore throats, Manuka Honey is consumed as a natural remedy. Its soothing effect helps alleviate irritation and reduce cough frequency. Additionally, the honey’s antimicrobial properties may help fight off infections that contribute to throat discomfort.
What the Science Says About Manuka Honey?
Several modern scientific research supports the efficacy of Manuka Honey in multiple key areas. Studies have demonstrated that its high concentration of MGO gives it strong antibacterial properties, making it effective in wound healing and infection prevention.
Research indicates that Manuka Honey can help soothe coughs and sore throats, with its antimicrobial properties offering potential benefits beyond those of conventional remedies. Its unique composition, including DHA and leptosperin, contributes to its therapeutic effectiveness, though ongoing research is needed to fully understand and validate its broader health benefits.
Another study suggests that Manuka Honey may help prevent gingivitis and other periodontal disease by reducing the buildup of plaque. In some studies, it shows that honey, unlike antiobiotics, does not appear to lead to resistant bacteria.
Practical Considerations and Limitations
While Manuka Honey offers promising benefits, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind. The effectiveness of Manuka Honey can vary depending on its UMF ™ rating and the concentration of bioactive compounds. Higher UMF ™ ratings indicate more potent therapeutic properties but they also come with a higher price tag.
Moreover, despite its benefits, Manuka Honey may not be suitable for everyone. People with allergies to bees should consult their healthcare provider before use. It’s also important to ensure that the Manuka Honey being used is authentic, as the market has seen a rise in counterfeit products. We would encourage you to always look for reliable certifications and labels to ensure the honey’s quality.
In Closing
At Hives Keeper, we guarantee what you order is what you receive, and they are 100% pure and raw high-quality honey. Nothing added and nothing subtracted. There are no added sugars, no additives, or artificial flavourings. Most importantly, one of the great things about purchasing from Hives Keeper is that you are receiving 100% authentic honey, no blends with cheap inferior products. They are straight from the hives.
Discover Hives Keeper’s honey now.