Category: Health Benefits

Manuka honey, produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush native to New Zealand, has become a popular natural remedy for various ailments, including sore throats. A common symptom of colds, flu, and other illnesses, a sore throat can be both painful and irritating. Many people are now turning to Manuka honey for its potential soothing and healing properties in treating sore throats.

Thanks to its unique composition, Manuka honey is known to possess antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid in combating the symptoms associated with sore throats. The effectiveness of Manuka honey in providing relief for sore throats is attributed to these properties, making it a desirable option for many.

It is important, however, to carefully weigh the benefits of using Manuka honey when considering it as an option for treating sore throats and also to ensure its use is suitable for your specific condition.

In this article, we will explore the roles that Manuka honey can play in relieving sore throats, investigate its potential benefits, and discuss how to properly use it as a soothing remedy. Additionally, an FAQ section will be included to address common questions and concerns on this topic.

What is Manuka Honey?

I you haven’t already read my other posts on the site, Manuka honey is a unique type of honey that originates from New Zealand, produced by bees that collect nectar from the native Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium).

It has gained recognition and popularity due to its excellent antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These characteristics make it a popular home remedy for various health ailments, including soothing a sore throat.

I use it regularly for skincare, staying healthy and love it.

What sets Manuka honey apart from other types of honey is its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its exceptional antibacterial properties. The antibacterial quality of Manuka honey is typically measured using the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating system, which represents the level of MGO present.

A higher UMF rating indicates a stronger potency and greater potential for therapeutic use.

Manuka honey’s benefits extend beyond just soothing a sore throat. It has been found to help in wound healing, oral health, treating ulcers, and even acne. Numerous scientific studies support these claims, further emphasizing the value of this natural remedy for health and healing purposes.

How Manuka Honey Helps a Sore Throat

Manuka honey’s ability to help relieve a sore throat can be attributed to its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The Cleveland Clinic states that research shows a decrease in Streptococcus mutans, a type of bacteria that causes sore throats, in people who use Manuka honey.

According to healthyy.net, the presence of methylglyoxal in Manuka honey gives it an antibacterial effect that can help treat a sore throat caused by bacterial infections. This same effect also makes it effective in treating strep throat.

Manuka honey’s anti-inflammatory effects play a significant role in alleviating sore throat symptoms.

Inflammation in the throat is a common cause of discomfort, and Manuka honey helps to reduce this inflammation, providing relief.

Another benefit of Manuka honey for sore throats is its ability to serve as a natural cough suppressant. The Mayo Clinic suggests that honey, in general, can be effective in reducing nighttime coughing. Drinking tea or warm lemon water mixed with Manuka honey can further soothe a sore throat.

It’s important to note that while Manuka honey shows promising results in providing relief from sore throats, individuals should still consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Scientific Studies Supporting Its Use

Manuka honey has been researched extensively for its potential health benefits, including its potential to help soothe a sore throat. In a 2017 study, it was found that honey was effective in providing faster relief from the signs and symptoms of sore throat, with greater patient satisfaction[source]. This suggests that Manuka honey may be beneficial for helping alleviate discomfort and irritation caused by sore throats.

Research on Manuka honey with different Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) values has also demonstrated its medicinal properties, including potential benefits when used as a treatment for sore throats[source]. Its antibacterial properties can contribute to soothing irritation and inflammation in the throat, supporting recovery.

Moreover, a 2020 study showed promising results in understanding how Manuka honey can benefit the immune system[source]. By bolstering the immune system, Manuka honey could potentially help combat the underlying causes of sore throats, such as infections or viruses.

Despite the considerable research, it’s worth noting that Manuka honey may not be adequate for treating chronic coughs by itself[source]. However, its properties can still provide some relief from symptoms and may be beneficial when used in conjunction with other treatments.

How to Use Manuka Honey for Sore Throat Relief

Manuka honey is a natural remedy for sore throats, thanks to its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties [Healthline]. There are several ways to use Manuka honey to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

One popular method is to simply consume a teaspoon of Manuka honey, allowing it to coat your throat as you swallow. This helps to directly soothe irritation and provide temporary relief from sore throat pain.

Another effective way to use Manuka honey is by adding it to a warm beverage, such as tea or lemon water. Stir a teaspoon of Manuka honey into your drink, allowing it to dissolve [Autumn Damask]. The combination of Manuka honey’s antibacterial properties, the warmth of the drink, and the added benefits of lemon can help to alleviate sore throat discomfort.

Manuka honey can also be used as a homemade throat lozenge. Dissolve a tablespoon of Manuka honey in a small amount of warm water, then pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze. Once the honey mixture is frozen, you can pop one out and suck on it like a lozenge, allowing the anti-inflammatory properties of Manuka honey to help soothe your throat [Brixton Soup Kitchen].

In addition to these methods, always remember to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to support your immune system and promote healing. While Manuka honey can provide temporary relief from sore throat symptoms, it’s important not to rely solely on it and consult a healthcare professional if your condition worsens or persists.

Cautions and Considerations

While Manuka honey has proven to be an effective remedy for sore throats, there are certain things to consider before using it as a treatment. One of the main concerns is the potential for an allergic reaction in individuals allergic to honey or bee-related products. Always consult a medical professional before trying a new treatment, especially if you have known allergies.

Though Manuka honey has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits, it should not be solely relied upon to treat a sore throat caused by a severe bacterial infection. In such cases, it is important to seek professional medical advice and take prescribed medications as needed.

Manuka honey should not be given to infants under the age of 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism, which can result from consuming the spores of Clostridium botulinum bacteria present in honey. This risk remains even for honey with anti-bacterial properties like Manuka honey.

It is also essential to purchase genuine, high-quality Manuka honey from reputable sources. Manuka honey must have a Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating of at least 10+ to ensure its effectiveness in treating a sore throat. Cleveland Clinic highlights some of the benefits of Manuka honey, but it is crucial to select the right product for optimal results.

Lastly, remember that honey, Manuka or otherwise, is high in sugar content. Consuming honey in excessive amounts may lead to weight gain or other health concerns, especially for individuals with diabetes. Moderation is key when using Manuka honey for its medicinal properties.

Alternative Remedies for Sore Throats

While Manuka honey is known to provide relief for sore throats, there are various other remedies that can also help soothe the discomfort. The following are a few alternatives to consider:

Gargling with warm salt water: Gargling with a mixture of warm water and salt can help alleviate throat pain and reduce inflammation. Use about half a teaspoon of salt in one cup of warm water and gargle for a few seconds.

Warm liquids: Drinking warm liquids, such as herbal tea or warm water mixed with lemon and honey, can help in soothing sore throats. The warm fluids can help ease irritation and reduce inflammation. Medical News Today suggests mixing a tablespoon of honey with a cup of warm tea or water.

Soothing lozenges: Sucking on lozenges or throat drops can help provide relief by stimulating saliva production, which helps in keeping the throat moist and alleviating dryness and irritation.

Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is important in keeping your throat moist and reducing the severity of a sore throat. Drinking fluids like water, tea, and clear broth can help in maintaining overall hydration.

Humidifiers: Using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and reduce irritation caused by dryness. The mayo clinic recommends using a cool-mist humidifier to add moisture to the air.

Remember to always consult a healthcare professional before trying any new remedies, especially if you already have existing medical conditions or if your symptoms persist despite trying these alternative treatments.

Conclusion

Manuka honey has been found to possess antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can be beneficial for various health issues, including sore throats. Its unique component, methylglyoxal, gives it a broad anti-bacterial spectrum, making it effective against the bacteria responsible for sore throats, such as streptococcus pyogenes.

Consuming Manuka honey may help soothe a sore throat and ease the associated pain and inflammation. It can be taken by adults in small amounts, such as a spoonful or diluted in warm water, as suggested by the Cleveland Clinic.

I just need to say again, while Manuka honey has shown promise as a natural remedy for sore throats, it is essential to remember that it may not work for everyone, and should not be considered a replacement for professional medical advice or treatment.

Always consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

I’ve used lemon honey water using manuka honey for years. Before it was even cool.

It’s a refreshing and healthy beverage that’s made by combining lemon juice, honey, and water.

Because of the unique properties and antibacterial nature of Manuka honey, I believe it’s a no-brainer that you should use Manuka honey whenever you are considering a wellness drink or food that asks for honey.

It does change the flavor a little as it’s a unique taste but it’s totally worth it.

Lemon Honey Water is a popular drink in many cultures and has been used for centuries to promote health and wellness.

In this article, I’ll explore the many benefits of lemon honey water and provide a yummy recipe for making it at home.

1. Boosts Immune System

One of the key benefits of lemon honey water is that it can help to boost the immune system. Lemon is a rich source of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C is also important for the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and diseases. Honey, on the other hand, has antibacterial properties that can help to protect the body from harmful bacteria and viruses.

2. Aids in Digestion

Lemon honey water is also known to have a soothing effect on the digestive system. The acidity of the lemon juice can help to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which can aid in the digestion of food. Additionally, honey has prebiotic properties that can help to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which is essential for a healthy digestive system.

3. Hydrates the Body

Drinking lemon honey water can also help to keep the body hydrated. Proper hydration is essential for maintaining optimal health and wellness, as it helps to regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, and remove waste products from the body. Lemon honey water is a great alternative to sugary drinks, as it provides hydration without the added calories and sugar.

4. Supports Weight Loss

Another benefit of lemon honey water is that it can help to support weight loss efforts. Lemon juice contains citric acid, which can help to boost metabolism and burn fat. Additionally, honey has a natural sweetness that can help to reduce cravings for sugary foods, which can contribute to weight gain.

5. Promotes Healthy Skin

Lemon honey water is also great for promoting healthy skin. The antioxidants in lemon juice can help to reduce inflammation and protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Honey, on the other hand, has moisturizing properties that can help to hydrate and soften the skin.

6. Relieves Sore Throat

Finally, lemon honey water can be a great natural remedy for sore throat and cough. The antibacterial properties of honey can help to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation, while the vitamin C in lemon juice can help to boost the immune system and fight off infections.

There is medical support for lemon honey water assisting with sore throat and upper respitory tract issues (URTI) (ref: https://ebm.bmj.com/content/early/2020/07/28/bmjebm-2020-111336).

Recipe for Lemon Honey Water

To make lemon honey water, you will need the following ingredients: I sometimes just cut the lemon and include a slice in the water as I don’t mind having some of the bitterness of the rind in the water too.

As you might expect this is just honey, water and lemon but you can give it a lift will a little ginger or similar.

• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon of Manuka honey
• 1 cup of water

Directions:

1. Heat the water in a small saucepan until warm (not boiling – if you boil the water it will kill the goodness in the honey).
2. Pour the warm water into a glass.
3. Add the lemon juice and honey to the glass. Choose a quality manuka honey.
4. Stir well until the honey is dissolved.
5. Enjoy your lemon honey water!

External References:

1. “6 Benefits of Drinking Lemon Water Every Day.” Healthline, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-lemon-water-benefits.
2. “The Benefits of Honey and Lemon Water.” Verywell Health, https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-honey-and-lemon-water-4163297.
3. “The Health Benefits of Lemon Water.” WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/lemon-water-health-benefits.
4. “Why You Should Drink Lemon Water Every Day.” Harvard Health Publishing, https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/why-you-should-drink-lemon-water-every-day.

Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it can be a frustrating and embarrassing problem to deal with. There are many different treatments available for acne, but some people are turning to natural remedies like Manuka honey to help improve their skin.

Personally, I’ve had great success with the application of Manuka honey directly to my skin as a part of my skincare routine.

In this article, I’ll explore the potential benefits of using Manuka honey for acne, as well as how to use it effectively and safely.

What is Manuka honey?

Manuka honey is a type of honey that is produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush.

This type of honey has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits, including its ability to fight against bacteria and inflammation.

I’ve already written a lot on the health benefits of Manuka Honey if you’ve visited here before.

Manuka honey is unique due to its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound that has been shown to have antimicrobial properties. MGO is formed when the enzyme dihydroxyacetone (DHA) in the nectar of the Manuka plant is converted into MGO during the honey-making process.

That’s a really scientific way of saying that the higher numbers, the most effective and the higher the wellness benefits of the honey.

Manuka honey and acne

Acne is caused by a variety of factors, including excess oil production, clogged pores, and bacteria.

Manuka honey has been shown to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it a promising treatment for acne. A study published in the Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology Research found that Manuka honey was effective at killing the bacteria that causes acne, known as Propionibacterium acnes, and reducing inflammation in the skin.

See our best manuka honey list

Another study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that a topical treatment containing Manuka honey was effective at reducing the severity of acne lesions. The study found that the treatment was able to reduce the number of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the skin, as well as improve skin texture and reduce redness.

How does Manuka honey work for acne?

The antimicrobial properties of Manuka honey are what make it an effective treatment for acne. The honey is able to kill the bacteria that causes acne, as well as other types of bacteria that can infect the skin. According to a review published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, Manuka honey has been shown to have a broad-spectrum antimicrobial effect against a wide range of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes.

In addition to its antimicrobial properties, Manuka honey also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce redness and inflammation in the skin. A study published in the journal Inflammopharmacology found that Manuka honey was able to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the skin, which are molecules that can cause inflammation.

How to use Manuka honey for acne

If you’re interested in using Manuka honey to treat your acne, there are a few different ways you can do it.

One option is to apply the honey directly to your skin as a face mask. To do this, simply apply a thin layer of Manuka honey to your face and leave it on for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.

You can also mix the honey with other ingredients, like yogurt or oatmeal, to create a more nourishing mask.

Another option is to use a skincare product that contains Manuka honey.

There are a variety of skincare products on the market that use Manuka honey as an active ingredient, including cleansers, moisturizers, and serums.

Look for products that contain a high concentration of Manuka honey and other beneficial ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.

Step by Step Instructions for using Manuka Honey for Acne

We find that most people apply Manuka Honey directly to their sking but it can help to prepare your skin and follow up with treatments after. There are brushes and things you can buy to make it easier but what ever works for you.

You can see our list of the best Manuka Honey here. Generally, you’re going to want to choose something with higher MGO and UMF numbers. A UMF 15+ and up is recommended but as we suggest below, a UMF 10+ will also be effective.

Here are step by step instructions on how to apply Manuka honey for acne on your skin:

1. Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup. Make sure your skin is clean and dry before applying the honey.
2. Choose a high-quality Manuka honey with a high concentration of MGO. Look for a manuka honey with a rating of at least 10+ UMF (Unique Manuka Factor), which indicates a high level of antibacterial activity.
3. Scoop a small amount of honey onto your fingertips or a clean spoon. You don’t need to use a lot of honey, a thin layer is enough.
4. Gently apply the honey to your face, using your fingers or a brush. Focus on areas where you have acne or inflammation.
5. Leave the honey on your face for 15-20 minutes. You can also leave it on overnight for a more intense treatment.
6. Rinse the honey off with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing your skin, as this can cause irritation.
7. Follow up with your regular skincare routine, including a moisturizer if needed.

It’s important to note that some people may be allergic to honey, so it’s always a good idea to patch test a small area of your skin before using it all over your face. If you experience any itching, redness, or swelling, remove the honey immediately and rinse your skin with cool water.

You can also check out list of the best organic manuka honey to select the right one.

You might think it’s a brand, and I’ll recommend some of those too – actually, just visit this list of the best manuka honey.

But back to the point. It’s not really what brand you buy, it’s what UMF or MGO, or NPA level you buy.

You see, as a natural product, Manuka honey has plenty of effective and important health benefits.

Most of these are documented in studies and practical medical use.

As we’ve discussed in some of my other blogs, MGO is the anti-bacterial property that Manuka honey contains.

The higher the MGO, the higher the anti-bacterial levels in the honey.

This is why Manuka honey companies charge more, the honey is more potent.

They also charge more because it’s harder to find higher levels of MGO in honey the higher the number.

So it’s more scarce and harder to find. If it is sourced it’s not in the same quantity. So it’s in shorter supply.

So, what’s the best Manuka Honey for your health?

Here is a quick simple guide for you to follow.

Listed by MGO level (or UMF/NPA numbers) – these relative numbers are estimated as all companies sell different numbers.

MGO 80+ / UMF 5+ / NPA 5+

This grade is great for food and eating. It’s got a nice flavor to it and is yummy to eat, much like regular table honey.

This does mean though, that it isn’t very high in anti-bacterial properties.

You can still use it for skin care as it is an emollient and natural humectant, but it won’t do a lot of active healing.

MGO 250+ / UMF 10+ / NPA 10+

This level of MGO is considered OK for topical use. That is, it can be put on your skin and will have positive benefits to healing.

It’s also still delicious to eat.

As the MGO levels get higher, the honey gets a little more medicinal and bitter. So, higher grades of Manuka honey can be less enjoyable to eat, but very potent for wellness and healing.

MGO 250+ is also good for Dogs, Cats, and other pets. It’s not to strong but good to use on sore paws, asking afflictions, and more.

MGO 400+ / UMF 15+ / NPA 15+

Now we’re getting into the ‘health zone’. MGO 400+ is considered the best all-rounder. Tasty but powerful. Yummy but Useful.

The MGO levels are high so it’s good for use on your skin and also great with warm water for drinking and helping with colds, coughs etc.

The taste does start to ‘mature’ and intensifies at this level but it’s still yummy. Put it in the fridge and becomes things and caramel-like.

A great addition to water, eating a spoonful in the morning or night, or adding to warm tea/coffee.

MGO 800+ / UMF 20+ / NPA 20+

A Manuka honey with an MGO of 800+ or higher is a strong MGO level.

This level of methylglyoxal is popular for skincare routines. You can mix it with other ingredients to make face masks and skin cleansers.

It’s worth trying a little on your skin first so you see if you might have a reaction to it.

We are dealing with higher MGO levels so any honey from here up the scale gets pretty strong.

You can also put this directly on wounds, or sores for healing.

And if you like, you can put it straight on your face with a makeup brush or similar and let it sit for a while before rinsing off.

MGO 1000+ / UMF 23+ / NPA 23+

This is getting pretty expensive now. A Manuka honey over 1000+ MGO is harder to find and therefore it becomes quite expensive.

But, it’s generally considered one of the best manuka honey to use for medicinal purposes.

You don’t have to get ‘medical grade’ manuka honey, you can use anything from the major brands but the medical grade is ultra-fine filtered for optional internal use.

This is where the really powerful health benefits of manuka honey start to become evident.

If you have cuts, scrapes, scars or other wounds, then the anti-bacterial levels in an MGO 1000+ is really efficacious.

The one thing to consider is that these levels can be quite bitter and medicinal in taste. Some people really like that, it comes down to personal taste.

Manuka honey has even been tested as a natural solution in combating MRSA, the superbug.

The best manuka honey for your health might just be the one you can afford

Manuka honey can get pretty expensive. And, as I’ve explained above, it’s all good for you and only gets more effective and potent the higher the MGO (methylglyoxal) levels get.

There are some companies that sell even higher grades than 1000+ but they are rare and even more expensive.

General rule of thumb

• The higher the MGO the more bitter the taste and the better the health benefits.
• The lower the MGO the sweeter the taste and the less effective the health benefits.

But remember, even a 10+ can be used on your skin with positive affect.

Questions? Always happy for you to ask in the comments below.

And don’t forget to check out the best manuka honey list which will recommend all you need to maintain a great health and wellness routine with Manuka honey a part of that.