Table of Contents
Introduction
We’re all about a drizzle of honey in our smoothies, over our yogurt and granola, or in our favorite baked goods. And nothing beats a spoonful of this golden elixir in a cup of herbal tea when we’re feeling unwell… But if this is all you’re using honey for, you’re likely missing out. Honey has been harnessed for its medicinal properties for centuries. And while all types of honey have benefits to boot, Manuka honey is one of the most potent you’ll find. From your skin care to your pre-workout routine, you won’t believe all the ways this honey can support your well-being.
What is Manuka Honey?
Raw Manuka honey comes from Manuka flowers in the pristine forests of New Zealand—and like all honey, its properties are connected to its origin. Because the bees that make it feed on this type of flower only, raw Manuka honey is considered a monofloral honey. It’s full of phenolic and flavonoid compounds that assist with antioxidant activity but also a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), uniquely known for its antimicrobial properties. Raw Manuka honey is celebrated for its potency, but its powerful compounds come in different concentrations known as the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). UMF 15+ honey contains one of the highest concentrations of Manuka compounds.
Manuka Honey for Pre-Workout Energy Boost
So, how can you make the most of this superfood? For starters, it’s more than a cup of tea on a cold afternoon. If elite athletes and strength coaches are using pre-workout honey, we’re listening. Because it’s composed of mostly carbohydrates, this honey is like a clean and natural burst of energy before you hit the spin class or yoga studio. Research even confirms that honey can help improve endurance [^1^].
Manuka Honey for Gut Health
Raw Manuka honey is well known for helping support immunity. What’s less discussed is its connection to gut support. With antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties, raw Manuka honey can help maintain a healthy gut and even ward off bacteria. But it also contains a type of sugar that doubles as a prebiotic. A 2014 study even proved that Manuka honey can inhibit the growth of Helicobacter pylori, a harmful stomach bacteria [^2^].
Manuka Honey for Skincare
Research has proven that raw Manuka honey has soothing effects on our skin due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Yes, we’re adding another step to your skin care routine, but this can’t be missed. Mix 2 tablespoons of Manuka honey, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and two drops of tea tree oil. Spread a thick layer on your face, thoroughly rinse after 10 to 15 minutes, and glow on [^3^].
Manuka Honey for Haircare
Honey has natural conditioning properties that make it a great addition to your hair care routine. Combine raw Manuka honey with your favorite hair mask products to take your hair care routine to the next level. Enjoy the extra shine, volume, and softness [^4^].
Manuka Honey for Muscle Recovery
When we work out, we intentionally put a strain on our muscles. While this is key for building strength, it can also cause oxidative stress, producing free radicals. Raw Manuka honey is a rich source of antioxidants, which help fend off these free radicals and aid in the recovery process [^5^].
Manuka Honey for Immune Support
When cold and flu season swings back around—we’re all ears for ways to support a healthy immune system. (And bonus points if it’s natural!) Studies have shown that raw Manuka honey has antiviral properties that can help boost the immune system [^6^].
Conclusion
There are a lot of surprising ways to reap the benefits of Manuka Honey, but à la Occam’s razor, sometimes the simplest answer is best. Whether you’ve got a sweet craving, feel a tickle in your throat, or simply want to treat your body to the powerful properties of raw Manuka honey, grab your spoon and dive into your new favorite ritual. Honey is one of those gifts from nature you can’t help but feel grateful for. That’s why https://aboutmanukahoney.com only offers the most premium, pure, well-researched, and sustainably sourced Manuka products possible. This brand has devoted itself to upholding standards and exceeding expectations of quality and efficacy for half a century. Its creamed-to-perfection taste is reason alone to stock up on Manuka honey, let alone all these surprising ideas. But no matter how you use it: With Manuka Honey hair on your spoon, you’re golden.
References
[^1^]: “Effect of honey in improving endurance capacity in sedentary adults: a randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled trial” – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4031192/
[^2^]: “Active Manuka Honey Inhibits Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection” – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23782759/
[^3^]: “Topical anti-inflammatory activity of Manuka honey” – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17963421/
[^4^]: “Moisturizing effect of cosmetic formulations containing honeybee-collected pollen extract” – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19245200/
[^5^]: “Chronic honey consumption attenuates muscle damage induced by blows and resistance exercise in Wistar rats” – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31597590/
[^6^]: “Manuka-type honeys can eradicate biofilms produced by Staphylococcus aureus strains with different biofilm-forming abilities” – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32240169/
