Manuka Honey Health Benefits

Manuka honey is a unique type of honey that offers a wide range of health benefits. It is known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a versatile and potent natural remedy. In this article, we will explore the top health benefits of manuka honey and provide valuable information on how to choose the best quality product.

Introduction to Manuka Honey

Manuka honey is a special type of honey that is produced in New Zealand and Australia. It is derived from the nectar of the manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), which is native to these regions. Manuka honey is known for its dark color, thick consistency, and distinctive flavor.

Manuka honey contains a unique compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which is responsible for many of its health benefits. MGO is a naturally occurring compound that is found only in manuka honey. It has powerful antimicrobial properties, making manuka honey an effective natural remedy for various health conditions.

How to Choose Authentic Manuka Honey

When buying manuka honey, it is important to ensure that you are getting an authentic and high-quality product. Here are some tips to help you choose the best manuka honey:

1. Look for the AMHA (Australian Manuka Honey Association) mark of authenticity stamp: This certification ensures that the honey is genuine and meets the quality standards set by the association.

2. Check for an MGO (methylglyoxal) rating: The MGO rating indicates the level of methylglyoxal present in the honey. The higher the rating, the more potent the honey is in terms of its health benefits.

3. Consider the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating: While the UMF rating is primarily used for New Zealand manuka honey, some UK retailers are starting to use it for all manuka honey products. The UMF rating indicates the presence of unique signature compounds, such as methylglyoxal and dihydroxyacetone, which contribute to the purity and quality of the honey.

4. Read product labels carefully: Look for information about the origin of the honey, the presence of the AMHA or UMF certification, and the MGO rating. This will help you make an informed decision and choose a high-quality product.

Top 10 Health Benefits of Manuka Honey

Now let’s explore the top health benefits of manuka honey:

1. Supports Wound Healing

Manuka honey is widely known for its wound-healing properties. When applied directly to wounds, it promotes the healing process and reduces pain. In fact, the US Food and Drug Administration approved manuka honey as an option for wound treatment in 2015. The antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of manuka honey contribute to its effectiveness in supporting tissue regeneration and healing various types of wounds.

2. Soothes a Sore Throat

Honey and lemon have long been used as a remedy for sore throats. Studies have shown that honey is more effective at alleviating coughs in children compared to over-the-counter cough suppressants. In 2018, revised guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and Public Health England (PHE) recommended honey as a first-line treatment for reducing the symptoms of a short-term cough. Manuka honey, with its antimicrobial properties, can provide soothing relief for a sore throat.

3. Supports Gut Health

Manuka honey acts as a prebiotic, as it contains non-digestible carbohydrates known as oligosaccharides. Although we cannot digest these carbohydrates, the beneficial bacteria in our gut can. By providing a food source for these bacteria, manuka honey helps promote the growth of “good” bacteria, such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. This, in turn, supports gut health and overall digestive function.

4. May Soothe Gastric Ulcers

Test tube and animal studies have shown that manuka honey may help protect against the damaging effects of gastric ulcers. It provides anti-inflammatory effects, helps manage infections such as Helicobacter pylori, and protects the mucosa of the gut. These properties make manuka honey a potential natural remedy for gastric ulcers.

5. May Be Helpful for Gastroenteritis

There is some evidence to suggest that honey, especially manuka honey, may help treat gut infections caused by bacterial strains like Clostridium difficile. Manuka honey appears to shorten the duration of symptoms such as diarrhea. Further research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness of manuka honey in treating gastroenteritis.

6. May Offer Antiviral Properties

Studies have shown that manuka honey has antiviral properties. In laboratory settings, it has been found to inhibit influenza viruses and shingles. However, more research, including human trials, is needed to confirm these findings and determine the full extent of manuka honey’s antiviral effects.

7. May Be Useful for Antibiotic-Resistant Infections

The rise of antibiotic resistance is a major concern in modern healthcare. As a result, alternative therapies are being sought. Medical-grade honey, including manuka honey, has shown promise in treating multidrug-resistant infections. A 2020 study investigating the application of medical-grade honey demonstrated significant potential in treating such infections.

8. May Help Prevent Dental Plaque

Contrary to what one might expect, manuka honey’s antibacterial properties make it a potential ally in dental health. Studies suggest that manuka honey can help minimize the buildup of dental plaque, reducing the risk of gingivitis and other periodontal diseases. It inhibits the growth of less favorable oral bacteria, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis.

9. May Help Manage Cystic Fibrosis

Manuka honey’s potent antibacterial properties may augment the effects of antibiotics in cystic fibrosis patients with upper respiratory infections. It inhibits the growth of bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Burkholderia, which are commonly associated with cystic fibrosis. Further research is needed to determine the full potential of manuka honey as a treatment strategy for cystic fibrosis.

10. May Be Effective Against Inflammatory Skin Conditions

In addition to its antibacterial and wound-healing properties, manuka honey is being studied for its potential effects on inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea and acne. Test tube studies suggest that honey can modulate the immune system of the skin. However, more research is needed to fully understand the value and potential of manuka honey as a treatment for various skin disorders.

Recommended Portion Size of Manuka Honey

While manuka honey offers numerous health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high sugar content. A maximum of two teaspoons (15g) of manuka honey per day is considered a good portion size. If you are using manuka honey as part of a balanced diet, consider drizzling it over porridge, overnight oats, or natural yogurt for a delicious and nutritious addition to your meals.

Conclusion

Manuka honey is a unique and potent natural remedy that offers a wide range of health benefits. From supporting wound healing to soothing a sore throat and promoting gut health, manuka honey has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. When choosing manuka honey, look for the AMHA or UMF certification and check the MGO rating to ensure you are getting an authentic and high-quality product. Incorporate manuka honey into your diet in moderation to reap its impressive health benefits.