Manuka honey has been a popular topic recently, and for a good reason. This unique type of honey is produced by bees pollinating the Manuka bush, a plant native to New Zealand. Manuka honey is considered one of the most beneficial types of honey due to its high antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Here is some information about the wonders of Manuka honey and discuss its benefits, uses, and what to look for when purchasing this special product.
What makes manuka honey different
Manuka honey differs from other types of honey due to its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO). This naturally occurring compound gives it its antibacterial properties. The MGO content of Manuka honey varies, with some types having higher levels than others. The MGO levels in Manuka honey can be measured in MGO units ranging from 100 to over 1000. The higher the MGO content, the stronger the antibacterial properties of the honey.
In addition to its antibacterial properties, Manuka honey contains various other beneficial compounds, including hydrogen peroxide, which has antiseptic properties, and dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is converted into MGO in the honey. These compounds work together to give Manuka honey its powerful healing properties.
Benefits of manuka honey
Manuka honey has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is effective in treating a variety of health conditions, including:
- Wounds and burns. Manuka honey is a natural antiseptic and has been shown to promote wound healing and reduce the risk of infection. It can also be used to treat burns and help reduce scarring.
- Digestive problems. Manuka honey can help improve digestive health by reducing gut inflammation and promoting good bacteria growth.
- Skin conditions. Manuka honey is effective in treating acne, eczema, and other skin conditions due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Sore throats. Manuka honey has been used for centuries to treat sore throats and effectively reduce the severity of symptoms.
- Immune system. Manuka honey has been shown to boost the immune system and improve overall health.
Uses of manuka honey
Manuka honey can be used in various ways to improve health and wellness. Some of the most common uses include:
- Consuming it. Manuka honey can be consumed on its own or added to tea, smoothies, or other beverages. It can also be used in cooking or baking.
- Topical application. Manuka honey can be applied directly to the skin to treat wounds, burns, and skin conditions.
- Skincare products. Manuka honey is a popular ingredient in skincare products, including face creams, lotions, and serums, due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Choosing the right manuka honey
When purchasing Manuka honey, it is important to choose a product that is high-quality and has a high level of MGO. To ensure that you are getting a high-quality product, look for the UMF (unique manuka factor) label, which is a certification that verifies the quality of the Manuka honey. The UMF rating ranges from 5–20 and indicates the strength of the antibacterial properties of the honey. A rating of 10 or higher is considered good quality and the best Manuka honey.
Takeaway
Overall, Manuka Honey is a highly sought-after product with many health benefits. It is made by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush in New Zealand and has a unique composition that sets it apart from other types of honey. This special honey has been shown to have antibacterial properties, can help with wound healing, and is effective in reducing the symptoms of certain digestive issues. While it is important to note that not all Manuka Honey products are created equal, when purchasing a product that is 100% pure and comes from a reputable source, you can be sure you are getting a high-quality product that will provide you with health benefits you are looking for.
Tim Williamson, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
