Scientists at Porton Down in the UK are exploring the use of Manuka honey to create specialized chemical attack resistant gas masks. Manuka honey has antimicrobial properties and is known for its ability to ward off colds and sore throats. By using the honey as a ‘glue’, researchers hope to capture and neutralize poisonous toxins, chemicals, and viruses in gas masks and personal protective equipment (PPE). This innovative use of Manuka honey could provide enhanced protection against airborne biological and chemical attacks.
Manuka Honey’s Antimicrobial Qualities
Manuka honey, derived from bees foraging on the manuka bush, possesses strong antimicrobial properties. The honey can act against a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. This makes it an effective solution for combatting various pathogens.
Application in Gas Masks and PPE
The UK Defence Secretary has filed a patent application proposing the use of Manuka honey as a ‘glue’ in the development of gas masks and PPE. The honey would be applied as a ‘sticky’ layer on filters to capture and neutralize harmful substances. The patent suggests multiple methods of honey application, such as coating filters or using an absorptive tissue infused with honey. These designs aim to filter the dynamic airflow and ensure that particulate matter is trapped and neutralized.
Potential Benefits and Testing
Although the patent is still in the concept phase and has yet to be tested, researchers are hopeful about the potential benefits of using Manuka honey in gas masks. Previous studies have demonstrated the efficacy of Manuka honey in combating dangerous bacteria like Mycobacterium abscessus. Combining the honey with lower doses of antibiotics could potentially lead to the development of new drugs that improve the quality of life for patients.
The Rise in Popularity of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey has gained significant recognition and popularity in recent years. It is produced by bees that feed on manuka trees found in New Zealand and Australia. This honey is highly sought after and often commands high prices. Celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow, Scarlett Johansson, and Katherine Jenkins have all praised the health benefits of Manuka honey, dubbing it ‘liquid gold.’
Conclusion
The use of Manuka honey in creating chemical attack resistant gas masks is an exciting prospect. The antimicrobial properties of this honey could provide enhanced protection against airborne pathogens. While the patent is in its early stages, researchers are optimistic about the potential benefits. Manuka honey’s effectiveness in treating infections and its rising popularity as a superfood only add to the anticipation surrounding this potential breakthrough. As further testing and development occur, this innovative application of Manuka honey could contribute to the improvement of protective equipment and the safety of individuals in high-risk environments. To learn more about Manuka honey and its various uses, visit https://aboutmanukahoney.com.
There’s way more to the world of honey than you may think. These natural products offer something far greater than the sum of their parts, and there’s no better example than the manuka honey anti aging brings to the global stage. This honey is one of the hidden wonders of the world, fetching high prices for good reason. Not only does manuka pack a ton of unique flavors, but it also delivers health benefits that significantly improve the quality of life for frequent consumers.
Manuka Honey and Health Benefits
Antimicrobial Properties
When you mention manuka honey to a longtime connoisseur, they know it to be synonymous with health. The main reason is the antimicrobial engine contained in each drop of manuka honey, thanks to the complex matrix of unfiltered, unprocessed, active compounds. Yes, manuka honey is the real deal – raw, alive, and brimming with powerful properties that fight bad bacteria from deep within your body. Taking a scoop of manuka is like sending a group of elite, antibacterial soldiers to the front lines to protect you during flu season, or year round!
If you’re feeling on the verge of illness or just need an extra layer of immunity in your daily life, manuka honey is a sweet and tasty way to get it. Just a dollop on your toast or in your tea is all you need.
Gut Health
All the hype surrounding gut health and probiotics is backed up by science, and manuka honey serves this benefit as well. Research shows that manuka honey contains factors that promote good bacteria in the intestines, while fighting against harmful bacteria to create balance. It’s no wonder why manuka honey eaters report better digestion, reduced bloating, and even relief from symptoms of acid reflux. With manuka, you’re putting powerful probiotics to work for you, restoring gut health and promoting balance throughout the body.
Because so many people have had their gut health deteriorated by processed food and medications, adding manuka honey to the mix can be a huge revelation, changing the trajectory of their entire health journey.
Natural Alternative for Soothing Relief
Ever felt like you needed a break from nausea or sore throat, but were hesitant to reach for OTC medicines like aspirin or acetaminophen? You’re not alone in your efforts to choose a natural alternative for soothing relief, and manuka honey might just be your answer. We know that all honey has calming, cooling properties for the throat and stomach, but manuka offers a far more potent form of relief. You don’t have to worry about excessive sugars that defeat the purpose of a healthy snack, and you can combat illness directly rather than mask symptoms. Better yet, anyone can get manuka honey’s healing properties and not worry about negative interactions or allergies. Gluten-free, GMO-free, and no unwanted extras: just the best stuff available.
Measuring Potency: MGO Ratings
You’ll likely see “MGO” ratings in your manuka honey research, so what does this mean and how does it relate to the capabilities of this product? Manuka honey producers use MGO to mean methylglyoxal, which is the compound that powers the many health benefits outlined so far. Simply put, the higher the MGO rating, the better your manuka honey will combat illness, heal your gut, and grant you all the other bonuses you want. High-MGO products may be more potent and pricey, but this isn’t to say that low-MGO manuka honey can’t do the job. We suggest finding a brand of manuka honey with a range of MGO offerings and seeing how you benefit differently from each one.
Manuka Honey for Skin Health
We’ve only discussed the benefits of ingesting manuka honey thus far, but did you know that many people apply this substance directly to their skin for even more healthy results? It might sound mad, but this practice is fairly common in New Zealand, and the rest of the world is finally catching on. Simply rub some manuka honey on tired or inflamed skin to see reduced redness and quicker healing effects. Some people even swear by manuka as an anti-aging tool, drawing out bacteria and clearing out dead skin cells in an exfoliating process. You don’t need much manuka to see the cleansing, revitalizing benefits for your skin.
Try it out for yourself next time you go for a taste. Because every batch of manuka honey is different and human biology varies so broadly, you never know the benefits of this “liquid gold” until you try it for yourself. Find a trusted, UMFHA Licensed manuka honey seller, test out some products, and see what life-changing benefits you discover.
Manuka Honey: Understanding the Difference Between Monofloral and Multifloral Varieties
Introduction
When it comes to the world of honey, manuka honey stands out as an exceptional variety with a wide range of health benefits. Made from the nectar of the Leptospermum scoparium plant in New Zealand, manuka honey has gained popularity for its healing properties that extend to skincare and digestive health. However, due to the limited number of these plants, manuka honey production is restricted each year, making it a sought-after and valuable product.
Understanding the Terminology: Raw, Pasteurized, and Manuka Honey
Before delving into the differences between monofloral and multifloral manuka honey, it’s essential to understand the associated terms and labels commonly found on manuka honey products. In the United States, consumers are familiar with raw honey and pasteurized varieties, such as clover or orange blossom honey. However, the distinction becomes slightly more confusing when it comes to manuka honey.
Firstly, it’s important to note that “manuka” refers to the plant species and the honey derived from it, while “raw” and “pasteurized” indicate the processing methods. Just like any other type of honey, manuka honey can be either raw or pasteurized. However, discussions often revolve around the benefits of consuming raw manuka honey, which is favored by individuals who prefer honey in its most natural form. Nevertheless, the pasteurization process does not significantly alter the health effects of manuka honey in general.
The Price Factor: Manuka Honey vs. Standard Clover Honey
Manuka honey, whether raw or pasteurized, tends to be more expensive compared to standard varieties like clover honey. While some supermarket brands offer manuka honey at relatively affordable prices, online merchants often charge premium prices for even small jars of this golden elixir. Given the substantial investment required, it is crucial to ensure that the manuka honey you purchase is authentic and pure.
When examining labels, keep an eye out for any indications of blended honeys. Some products may be labeled as “monofloral,” which means that the honey primarily comes from one specific flower species. On the other hand, “multifloral” manuka honey contains predominantly manuka flower nectar, but it may also incorporate nectar from other flower species. Interestingly, multifloral manuka honey generally contains lower levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), the compound responsible for the various health benefits associated with manuka honey.
The Importance of MGO: Understanding the Antibacterial Properties of Manuka Honey
Methylglyoxal, or MGO, is a naturally occurring compound found in varying levels within the nectar of manuka plants. Consequently, these variations are transferred to the honey produced from their nectar. Many reputable manuka honey brands specify an MGO number on their labels, with a higher number indicating a greater concentration of MGO and stronger antibacterial properties.
Typically, monofloral manuka honey will display an MGO number with three digits, while multifloral manuka honey might have an MGO number with only two digits. The MGO number serves as a crucial consideration when purchasing manuka honey, especially for those seeking its renowned antibacterial benefits. It is advisable to select honey with the highest MGO number available to ensure a potent and effective product.
Making an Informed Purchase: Factors to Consider
When it comes to buying manuka honey, there are several key factors to consider in order to make an informed choice that aligns with your preferences and requirements. Firstly, determine whether you prefer raw or pasteurized honey. Next, consider the mono- or multifloral status of the honey, as this can influence the overall properties and benefits. Finally, pay attention to the MGO number, especially if you are seeking the antibacterial effects for which manuka honey is renowned.
By understanding these factors and conducting thorough research, you can confidently navigate the market and find a high-quality manuka honey product that suits your needs.
For more information and to explore a range of manuka honey options, we recommend reaching out to a reputable manuka honey supplier such as https://aboutmanukahoney.com.
13 July 2022 Categories: Manuka Honey, Health, Honey Production
Manuka Honey for Hair: A Natural Solution to Hair Fungus
Introduction
When it comes to hair care, there are countless products and treatments available in the market. However, sometimes the most effective solutions can be found in nature itself. Manuka honey, a unique type of honey found in New Zealand, has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits. One of its lesser-known benefits is its ability to combat hair fungus. In this article, we will explore the amazing properties of Manuka honey and how it can be used to eliminate hair fungus effectively.
The Power of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is produced by bees that feed on the nectar of the Manuka tree flowers, which is native to New Zealand. What sets Manuka honey apart from other types of honey is its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO is a naturally occurring compound that gives Manuka honey its antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Understanding Hair Fungus
Hair fungus, also known as scalp fungus or tinea capitis, is a common condition characterized by an itchy scalp, dandruff, and hair loss. It is caused by a fungal infection that can be difficult to treat with regular over-the-counter shampoos and medications. Hair fungus can be contagious and may spread to other parts of the body if left untreated.
Using Manuka Honey for Hair Fungus Treatment
Manuka honey can be an effective natural remedy for hair fungus due to its antifungal properties. Here’s how you can use Manuka honey to eliminate hair fungus:
Manuka Honey Hair Mask: To create a Manuka honey hair mask, mix 1 tablespoon of Manuka honey with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Apply the mixture to your scalp and hair, focusing on the affected areas. Leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this treatment once or twice a week for best results.
Manuka Honey Shampoo: You can also add Manuka honey to your regular shampoo to boost its antifungal properties. Simply mix a small amount of Manuka honey with your shampoo and use it to wash your hair as usual. Make sure to massage your scalp gently to promote better absorption. Rinse thoroughly with water.
Manuka Honey Hair Rinse: Another way to incorporate Manuka honey into your hair care routine is by using it as a hair rinse. After shampooing your hair, dilute 2 tablespoons of Manuka honey in a cup of warm water. Use it as a final rinse, making sure to distribute it evenly throughout your hair. Leave it on for a few minutes before rinsing it off with water.
The Benefits of Manuka Honey for Hair Health
Aside from its effectiveness in treating hair fungus, Manuka honey offers a range of benefits for overall hair health. Some of these benefits include:
Moisturizing Properties: Manuka honey is known for its ability to moisturize and nourish the hair and scalp. It can help restore moisture to dry and damaged hair, leaving it softer and more manageable.
Scalp Soothing: The antibacterial properties of Manuka honey can help soothe an itchy and irritated scalp. It can provide relief from conditions like dandruff and scalp psoriasis.
Promoting Hair Growth: Manuka honey contains amino acids and vitamins that are essential for healthy hair growth. Regular use of Manuka honey can help stimulate hair follicles and promote thicker, stronger hair.
Natural Shine: The nutrients present in Manuka honey can enhance the natural shine of your hair, giving it a healthy and lustrous appearance.
Precautions and Considerations
While Manuka honey is generally safe to use on the hair and scalp, there are a few precautions to keep in mind:
Allergies: If you have known allergies to honey or bee products, it’s advisable to perform a patch test before using Manuka honey on your hair. Apply a small amount to a small area of your skin and wait for 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions.
Quality of Manuka Honey: To ensure you are getting the highest quality Manuka honey, look for products that are certified with a Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) rating. A higher UMF rating indicates a higher concentration of beneficial compounds.
Consult a Dermatologist: If you have a severe or persistent hair fungus infection, it’s important to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Manuka honey can be used as a complementary treatment but should not replace medical advice.
Conclusion
Manuka honey is not only a delicious natural sweetener but also a powerful remedy for hair fungus. Its antifungal properties make it an effective and safe treatment option for those struggling with this common scalp condition. By incorporating Manuka honey into your hair care routine, you can enjoy its numerous benefits and promote healthy hair growth. Remember to use high-quality Manuka honey and consult a dermatologist if needed. Say goodbye to hair fungus and hello to beautiful, healthy hair with Manuka honey!
When we’re feeling under the weather or have a scratchy throat, a spoonful of honey swirled in herbal tea is satisfying. Honey has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. It’s now known that honey contains flavonoids and polyphenols that support our immune system through antioxidant activity. However, not all honey is created equal.
Manuka Honey: The Gold Standard
Manuka honey is sourced from the nectar of wild Manuka flowers in New Zealand. The bees that produce this honey feed exclusively on the Manuka flower, resulting in a honey with unique properties. Manuka honey contains natural compounds that support our body’s natural healing processes. It is known for its antimicrobial qualities.
The Grading System: UMF and MGO
Manuka honey comes in different grades, with the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) providing an indication of phenol concentration. The New Zealand government backs UMF for the verification of quality and potency. The higher the UMF, the higher the phenolic and MGO content, which encourages the body’s natural healing process.
Benefits for the Immune System
Raw Manuka honey with a high UMF not only supports a healthy immune system through antioxidant activity but also provides antimicrobial properties. The premium and pure quality of Comvita Manuka honey ensures that it delivers the highest strength of Manuka compounds, making it an excellent addition to an immunity routine.
Comvita Manuka Honey: Quality and Efficacy
Comvita Manuka honey products exceed the stringent certifications for quality and efficacy. They are made with premium, pure, and sustainably sourced ingredients. Since 1974, Comvita has been dedicated to providing high-quality honey products.
Conclusion
Whether you’re feeling a little off or want to boost your immune system, Comvita Manuka honey is a great choice. It supports a healthy immune system, provides antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and meets the highest standards of quality and efficacy. Add it to your daily routine and experience the benefits for yourself.
H2: Manuka Honey for Dandruff: A Natural Remedy for Flaky Scalp
H3: Introduction
Dandruff can be a bothersome and embarrassing condition, causing flaking and itching of the scalp. While there are many over-the-counter and prescription treatments available, some people prefer to opt for natural remedies. One such remedy that has gained popularity in recent years is Manuka honey.
H3: What is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is a type of honey that is produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush. It is known for its unique properties and has been used for centuries for its medicinal purposes. Unlike regular honey, Manuka honey contains higher levels of a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which is believed to have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
H3: How Does Manuka Honey Help with Dandruff?
Antibacterial Properties: The high MGO content in Manuka honey gives it powerful antibacterial properties. This means that it can help kill the bacteria that may contribute to dandruff and promote a healthier scalp.
Soothing and Moisturizing: Manuka honey is also known for its soothing and moisturizing effects on the skin. Applying Manuka honey to the scalp can help relieve itching and dryness, two common symptoms of dandruff.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: In addition to its antibacterial properties, Manuka honey also has anti-inflammatory effects. This can help reduce redness and irritation on the scalp, further alleviating dandruff symptoms.
H3: How to Use Manuka Honey for Dandruff
Direct Application: One way to use Manuka honey for dandruff is to apply it directly to the scalp. You can do this by warming a small amount of Manuka honey in your hands and gently massaging it into your scalp. Leave it on for 20-30 minutes before rinsing it out.
Honey and Coconut Oil Hair Mask: Another option is to mix Manuka honey with coconut oil to create a nourishing hair mask. Simply combine equal parts of Manuka honey and coconut oil, apply it to your scalp and hair, and leave it on for at least 30 minutes before washing it out.
Manuka Honey Shampoo: If you prefer a more convenient option, you can also look for shampoos that contain Manuka honey as an ingredient. These shampoos are specifically formulated to help treat dandruff and can be used like any other shampoo.
H3: Tips for Using Manuka Honey for Dandruff
Choose a high-quality Manuka honey with a high MGO rating. Look for reputable brands that source their honey from New Zealand.
Perform a patch test before applying Manuka honey to your scalp to check for any potential allergies or sensitivities.
Be consistent with your Manuka honey treatments. For best results, use it regularly as part of your hair care routine.
Keep in mind that Manuka honey is not a magical cure for dandruff. It can help alleviate symptoms, but it may not completely eliminate the condition. If your dandruff persists or worsens, it’s best to consult a dermatologist.
H3: Conclusion
Manuka honey is a natural and potentially effective remedy for dandruff. Its antibacterial, soothing, and moisturizing properties make it a popular choice for those looking for a natural alternative to traditional dandruff treatments. Whether applied directly to the scalp or used in combination with other ingredients, Manuka honey may help reduce flaking, itching, and inflammation associated with dandruff. Give it a try and see if it makes a difference for your scalp health.
Manuka Honey Refrigeration: A Growing Concern for Consumers
The issue of honey fraud has become a pressing concern for consumers in recent years. A study conducted by an independent organization tested 320 honey samples from 18 countries and found that almost 50% of them were fraudulent. Shockingly, all 10 samples from the UK failed authenticity testing, indicating a steep rise in suspicious samples since the last round of testing.
The Problem of Fraudulent Honey
By law, honey is not permitted to have anything added to it or undergo any processes that alter its natural characteristics. However, it has become a prime target for fraudsters due to its potential for high profits. These criminals bulk out real honey with cheaper alternatives such as water or sugar syrups made from rice, wheat, or sugar beet. This practice is not only deceptive but also poses a lower risk for organized crime compared to other illegal activities.
The Challenge of Detecting Fraud
Identifying fraudulent honey can be challenging due to disputes over the conclusiveness of tests and the increasing sophistication of fraud methods. There is no single test that can definitively determine the authenticity of honey. Additionally, it is not known where the samples in the EU study were purchased or their country of origin. However, major supermarkets in the UK are working closely with suppliers to ensure the authenticity of the honey they sell.
The Vulnerability of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey, with its premium price and narrow geographical origin, is especially susceptible to fraud. This honey is derived from the nectar of the manuka bush flower, which only grows in New Zealand. Known for its antibacterial properties and associated health benefits, a 250g jar of manuka honey can sell for around £20, sometimes even reaching £60. Therefore, it is crucial for consumers to be vigilant when purchasing this particular type of honey.
Tips for Buying Authentic Honey
When purchasing standard honey, it is recommended to look for products that come from a single country of origin, which should be clearly stated on the packaging. This reduces the likelihood of the honey being adulterated with sugar syrup. Single-origin honey is typically more expensive than blended honey, but the higher cost is worth it for the reassurance of authenticity.
For manuka honey, consumers should look for UMF™ certification on the packaging. This certification ensures that the manufacturer is licensed with the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association and compliant with its quality standards, as well as the regulations and standards set by the New Zealand government. It also guarantees that the product was grown, produced, and packaged in New Zealand.
Other Foods Susceptible to Fraud
Honey is not the only food product that is vulnerable to fraud. Other foods such as olive oil, meat, seafood, Basmati rice, coffee, tea, fruit juice, saffron, and various herbs and spices are also at risk. In tough economic climates, food fraud tends to increase as individuals attempt to cut costs and maximize profits.
Conclusion
The issue of honey fraud is on the rise, with a significant number of samples being found to be fraudulent in recent studies. Consumers need to be aware of this problem and take precautions when purchasing honey. By following the tips mentioned above and being vigilant when making purchases, consumers can ensure that they are buying authentic honey and supporting honest honey producers.
For more information on honey fraud and related topics, please visit reputable external links:
Antibacterial Interactions between Two Monofloral Honeys and Topical Antiseptics, Including Essential Oils
Introduction
Honey has long been recognized for its antibacterial properties and its potential as a treatment for superficial bacterial infections. However, little is known about how honey interacts with other topically applied antibacterial agents, such as antiseptics or essential oils. In this study, the authors investigated the interactions between two types of monofloral honey (marri and manuka) and several antiseptic agents, including benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine digluconate, silver nitrate, tea tree oil, and eucalyptus oil. The authors performed checkerboard assays and calculated fractional inhibitory concentration indices (FICIs) to determine the interactions between the honey and the antiseptics.
Methods
The authors prepared solutions of marri honey, manuka honey, and each antiseptic agent at different concentrations. They inoculated the wells of a microtitre plate with two strains of bacteria, ATCC® 43300 and ATCC® 27853, and incubated the plates for 24 hours. They visually inspected the plates and determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for each combination of honey and antiseptic. They also measured the optical density of each well to quantify bacterial growth.
Results
The authors found that most combinations of honey and antiseptic had additive or indifferent interactions, with FICI values ranging from 0.5 to 2. However, they observed an antagonistic relationship between chlorhexidine digluconate and both marri honey and manuka honey. They also found that tea tree oil combined with marri honey had a synergistic effect against one of the bacterial strains. Time-kill studies confirmed the antibacterial activity of the honey-antiseptic combinations.
Discussion
These findings suggest that honey does not interfere with the antimicrobial activity of most topically applied antiseptics. However, there may be an antagonistic effect between honey and chlorhexidine digluconate. The authors speculate that this antagonism may be due to the complex and multifactorial mechanisms of action of both honey and chlorhexidine digluconate. Further research is needed to understand the specific mechanisms of these interactions and to determine their clinical relevance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study demonstrates that honey has additive or indifferent interactions with most topically applied antiseptics, indicating that honey may be suitable for combination therapy with these agents for the treatment of superficial bacterial infections. However, caution should be taken when combining honey with chlorhexidine digluconate, as an antagonistic effect was observed. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms of these interactions and to explore the potential benefits of combination therapy with honey and antiseptics.
For the full research article, please visit the link.
The MGO you will see on the front of Manuka Honey jars is an abbreviation for methylglyoxal.
MGO (Methylglyoxal) is a naturally occurring chemical marker that is present in Manuka honey. It is the scientific value for the property that is responsible for the anti-bacterial nature of the honey.
It is a naturally occurring element and it is specific to the Tea Tree / Manuka Bush (Leptospermum scoparium).
The Manuka tree, whose genus name is Leptospermum scoparium produces this rare property in higher levels than in any other honey.
The MGO levels in Manuka honey can vary dramatically from 0 to 1000+ MGO.
The higher the number, the higher the antibacterial properties.
Also, the more bitter the honey becomes as it increases in it’s natural medicinal flavour.
Its presence and levels can be tested in a scientific laboratory and so if you are looking to buy manuka honey from a reputable company then they will be able to provide the testing certificate for the honey that you have purchase.
What is the difference between MGO and UMF?
MGO is a part of the UMF grading system but MGO is not a grading system on its own.
UMF includes a few different chemical markers in the honey including HMF, MGO and DHA. Therefore is it considered a grading system.
MGO numbers on your Manuka honey mean the measured methylglyoxal (MGO) levels in the honey.
On a per gram or per ounce base, Manuka honey must be the most expensive honey in the world, also based on the size and volume of its global sales.
The term Mānuka is a Māori word, which is the native tongue or indigenous language of New Zealand.
For decades, maybe even hundreds of years the Māori already appreciated the value of both the Manuka tree and the honey which would’ve been collected by bees who were in locations where Manuka bush was prevalent.
When I say works, I mean there is a lot of scientific backing that supports the healthy properties of Manuka honey.
As a natural food, this is very attractive to a lot of people seeking natural remedies without needing to move onto pharmaceuticals.
But telling you why Manuka honey has health benefits, what those health benefits are, I’ll put in another post.
I can say that my girl friends and I find it wonderful as a healer, skin repairer and all round miracle in our wellness regimes.
This post is my explanation, and the extensive research that I’ve done explaining to you why Manuka honey is so expensive.
It’s easy to find a 250-gram or around a 9 ounze jar for anywhere in excess of $300 (US). It seems that the higher the numbers on the front that you see, the higher the value of the Manuka honey.
To understand why Manuka honey is so expensive, we really need to go back to the beginning of the journey.
1: Manuka is often found in hard to reach places
The Manuka tree or bush is from the Latin name, Leptospermum scoparium. This bush is found mostly in very remote areas and tends to survive well in very harsh conditions.
If you travel through New Zealand through a lot of the thermal and volcanic parts of New Zealand, which are famous for boiling mud, boiling water and thermal activity, you will often see a lot of Manuka bush around as it’s one of the only things that can survive in those environments.
Likewise, if you travel to the far North of New Zealand to the very top where the heat is high, the conditions are windy and harsh, you’ll also find Manuka thriving there. And in fact, scientists have been doing research into what makes the Manuka bush survive so well in these conditions.
If you travel to the tops of the mountains in some of the South Island locations of New Zealand, you’ll also find that the Manuka tree is one of the only trees that seems to at least survive and often thrive in those conditions.
Because of this remote and often harsh environment, it also means that placing hives near the Manuka tree makes it often a difficult and expensive exercise.
Manuka trees for honey are often found on remote New Zealand mountain tops
Generally speaking, you will find a lot of higher-grade Manuka honey comes from these most wild and remote locations.
There’s no perfect science to getting Manuka honey that has high MGO (Methylglyoxal) levels, and there’s a lot of effort that goes into collecting the honey.
The location of these hives can often only be reached by helicopter, by heavy-duty four-wheel drive trucks, that have to often travel long distances to collect the honey before returning it to the production facilities.
This cost is not only high, but in seasons where the Manuka honey and Manuka tree bloom is short, means there can be a lot of expense with very little return.
2: The manuka tree has a short flowering season
Another reason that Manuka honey is so expensive, which ties into its remote locations and the difficulties in reaching these locations and expense, is the season for the Manuka bush to flower, is usually in the heart of summer in New Zealand.
This season can start early some years and late in others. And so, when the Manuka bush flowers, it often only flowers for between two to six weeks depending on the conditions.
This means that Manuka honey apiarists, have to work extra hard during the season and have to achieve very high yields in order to supply the demand that the market provides.
This is not a year-round or summer-long activity, and if the season is not a good one, it can mean a shortage in supply for the year or the years to come.
If you have more than one bad year, then there can be critical issues obtaining, especially the higher grades of Manuka honey.
3: Weather conditions need to be just right
Number three is an extension of number two but also deserves its own mention, and that is that there are a lot of conditions that need to align for a Manuka harvest of honey to be bountiful.
The weather conditions for the season, the minerals and the soil that the Manuka bush draws from the amount of moisture and rainfall, the health of the plants, and general environmental conditions all have to align for the best Manuka bloom each year.
When the beekeepers place their hives in locations around Manuka bushes, they have to hope that the location they have chosen will be conducive for a good season.
4: Rarity
Honey itself is not that rare.
In fact, it’s quite a commodity. And to achieve a regular table honey, you can put beehives anywhere there are flowers.
Which is often the result to get clover honey or any other table honey that has been produced from bees visiting multiple types of flowers and plants during its bee collection season.
Multifloral Manuka Honey
Stepping up from normal table honey, we get to a multifloral Manuka honey, where the bees have had access to the Manuka bush but have also pollinated and traveled between other flowers to collect nectar, which means that the honey is a mix of flowers and is therefore called a multifloral.
This is actually something that can be tested for in laboratories.
A monofloral honey is where the honey has been produced from predominantly one flower variety, in this case, the Manuka flower. So, when beekeepers place their hives for a Manuka season, the hives have to be in an area where there’s really little else but Manuka for the bees to visit.
This, in itself, limits the ability of the beekeepers to produce a monofloral Manuka honey.
Once a monofloral honey is established, there really is a, ‘it’s up to the gods’ element to what MGO levels that honey will reach.
It’s very common and easy to find a UMF 5+ or MGO 40+, 50+, 80+ or 100+ as these are very close to a multifloral classification.
As soon as you get up into the higher grades of Manuka honey and higher MGO levels including 400+, 600+, 800+, and even over a thousand, these kind of numbers become more and more rare.
If you think of a triangle with something at around UMF 24/MGO 1200+ at the top, which is the most common and highest Manuka honey numbers that you’ll typically see in retail stores, and at the bottom of the triangle is a 5+ or around an MGO 80+ or 100+, you can better visualize how the scarcity of Manuka honey works.
It’s important to understand, and reiterate, that you can’t always make these high numbers happen, and sometimes they are in the hands of Mother Nature.
You can optimize the area where the hives go because typically, you get a high MGO level in that area, but you still cannot manipulate or manually cause these numbers to happen.
Manuka honey is a natural product and the resulting MGO levels in the honey are natural and cannot be controlled. This is a wonderful thing, but continues to demonstrate why Manuka honey in the higher grades is very rare.
6: Higher grades = More antibacterial properties
So we understand with Manuka honey in the higher grades, the high levels of methylglyoxal content also mean that the honey has more efficacious properties – higher antibacterial properties.
Methylglyoxal in Manuka honey is essentially the antibacterial properties that the honey possesses, and the higher the MGO number, the higher the health benefits.
So, not only is it rare, hard to harvest and hard to get in the higher grades, but the higher grades are also more potent and powerful.
This also means that the price increases as all of these factors combine to mean that the scarcity of the high MGO numbers, the scarcity of locations that can even produce the higher numbers, the cost of getting the honey from those locations, all comes together to mean that just to get the honey into the production drums or vats is an expensive exercise AND as the rarer, higher grades are more powerful with higher antibacterial qualities, it’s therefore worth more.
Like the most effective medicines are typically more costly, this natural product also comes at a cost.
Think of it like a really fine aged Whiskey (I don’t know about Whiskey but I think this analogy works) – it’s likely a limited edition run, aged and carefully crafted, stored for many many years and, it has amazing flavor.
Not a brilliant analogy but you get the idea.
7: Testing and certifying Manuka Honey costs money
From here there are additional costs that also drive up the cost of Manuka honey.
A lot of testing needs to be done to meet the New Zealand government standards.
And if a company is registered with an association such as the UMFHA, then they also need to pay license fees to belong to such organizations.
The UMFHA, as an example, provides consumers with a lot more confidence on the honey they’re buying because a honey exporter has to meet certain standards and the honey is tested for certain chemical markers to ensure that it meets that standard.
So, it’s usually better to choose a UMF honey over others as this provides you some confidence that it is neither fake, nor altered in any way.
These additional costs for testing to meet the government standards and association fees and additional testing for those associations also increases the cost for Manuka honey producers.
Things like Glyphosate are also things companies test for.
There was a big fuss in Japan when someone in NZ tried to export honey in to Japan but it failed the glyphosate (herbicide) testing.
Ideally, a Manuka honey will be produced, packed and labeled in New Zealand to give consumers ultimate confidence.
Most Manuka honey exporters will say this if they do it as it’s important to them that people know that it leaves NZ in a finished state.
And as Manuka honey is exclusive to New Zealand (there is a thing about Australia too but no one likes to talk about it), shipping this honey to other parts of the world can also be very expensive.
8: Shipping Manuka honey from New Zealand to you is expensive
By air or sea, shipping manuka honey is expensive.
Many Manuka honey companies ship by sea and many ship by air depending on the demand around the world.
By the time the product arrives in your country and all of the local regulations and compliance requirements around food labeling for that country have been achieved, the product that you receive in your hand has undergone many, many costs, expenses, and sweat and tears to get to you.
Manuka Honey here in the USA probably arrives by ship to the West Coast but I expect some flies in also.
As honey is heavy, think of it like the weight of water, it’s not cheap to ship.
Unlike an electronic device like a phone or clothing, something that’s been manufactured in a warehouse can be shipped without such care.
Manuka honey’s amazing natural qualities and properties make it stand out as a very, very special creation of Mother Nature and bees.
This is why I study it and share my knowledge with you.
I has been a part of my natural wellness regime for years.
If you have any specific questions about the cost of Manuka honey or what brands adhere to what standards, or any other details about the production cycle, I would welcome them in the comments below and can answer them based on the research, extensive research that I’ve undertaken.
