Manuka honey is well known for its health benefits, but where do they stem from? This blog post will aim to answer some of the questions you may have about the benefits and uses of Manuka honey. We cover a number of frequently asked questions about Manuka honey and its many applications. This article will give you a comprehensive understanding of the benefits of this special honey.
What Are the Benefits of Manuka Honey According to Researchers?
Research into the potential applications for Manuka honey is ongoing with hundreds of published scientific papers on record. In particular, the compounds methylglyoxal (MGO) and leptospermum have attracted significant attention in laboratory research.
Reasearch shows that when consumed, leptospermum crosses the gut into the bloodstream, confirming the potential for it to be a natural support for health and wellness.
Three areas of particular interest with researchers are:
- The antibacterial potential of MGO and the non-peroxide action of New Zealand Mānuka Honey
- The initial identification of anti-inflammatory potential in laboratory research
- The antioxidant action identified during in-vitro trials and in large scale reviews of mānuka honey research.
What Is MGO?
Manuka honey’s unique benefits stem predominantly from its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a naturally occurring compound found in the nectar of Manuka flowers (Leptospermum scoparium). The Manuka bush is native to New Zealand & Australia.
Although there are many other important factors to consider, MGO content plays a key role. The potential healing strength of Manuka honey is in direct correlation with the amount of MGO present. According to WebMD “the higher the concentration of MGO, the stronger the antibacterial effect.” You can read more about the medical properties of Manuka honey in this WebMD article: Manuka Honey
What Is Manuka Honey Good For?
Manuka honey is considered a miracle from nature and is good for you and your well-being, on many levels. There are various applications where Manuka honey may be beneficial to your health. Read on to learn how others have applied Manuka honey to their routine to promote a healthy lifestyle.
Is Manuka Honey Anti-inflammatory?
Some research suggests that Manuka honey has anti-inflammatory effects. The anti-inflammatory properties of Manuka honey are believed to be due to its high concentration of MGO. However, further research is needed to fully understand the extent of Manuka honey’s anti-inflammatory effects and its potential as a treatment for inflammatory conditions, since there are a variety of compounds at work in living Manuka honey.
Is Manuka Honey Better Than Regular honey?
Honey is known for its potential healing properties. Ancient tribes found that honey helped their wounds heal and that it was effective in fighting off potential infection. All honey contains hydrogen peroxide, which is a natural antiseptic. And it’s what gives most honey its bacteria-fighting properties. Consuming honey can be generally beneficial and it’s certainly better than using processed sugars.
However, regular honey does not contain MGO. This is the one big difference between regular honey and Manuka honey.
Is Manuka the Best Honey?
Sure, Manuka honey is better than regular honey, but is this unique honey the best type of honey in the world? We believe so. Manuka honey contains special compounds that are not present in any other honey or honey products.
Manuka honey has a unique taste. Some have described it as having a slightly medicinal taste. If great-tasting honey is what you’re after, but you still want the added health advantages of Manuka honey, WildCape is your answer. Our Manuka honey is particularly ‘mild’ tasting compared to some other brands that might have an overpowering ‘medicinal’ taste. Despite its naturally high concentration of MGO, WildCape’s East cape Manuka honey has a creamy and delicious taste.
Why Is Manuka Honey More Expensive Than Other Honey?
Manuka honey comes at a premium. The precious honey is made by bees that collect pollen from flowering Manuka bushes. This shrub only flowers for a few weeks every year. And it’s within this small window that Manuka honey is produced.
The bees collect and store the highly sought-after nectar from the Manuka bush. The nectar’s special properties are then captured and concentrated inside the honey. The concentration of this nectar is what makes Manuka honey so valuable. Some of the best Manuka honey in the world is produced on the East Cape of NZ. Manuka honey from this region contains a naturally high concentration of MGO. If you’re looking for a natural sweetener that supports a healthy lifestyle, consider replacing your regular honey with Manuka honey.
How Often Should You Take Manuka Honey?
The frequency of taking Manuka honey depends on the specific purpose for which it is being used. If you are using it as a supplement for its potential health benefits, it is generally recommended to take it daily, either as a spread on toast or mixed into drinks or food. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for specific guidance on the frequency and dosage of Manuka honey that is appropriate for your individual needs.
Can You Eat Manuka Honey Everyday?
Yes, you can eat Manuka honey every day as part of a balanced diet. While consuming Manuka honey every day can provide some potential health benefits, it is also important to remember that honey is a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Overconsumption of any form of sugar can lead to health issues.
Can I Take Manuka Before Bed?
Yes, you can take Manuka honey before bed. Some people find that taking Manuka honey before bed can help promote better sleep and improve their overall quality of sleep. However, it is important, again, to remember that Manuka honey is a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation, especially before bed.
Is Manuka Honey Safe?
Manuka honey is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet. However, as with any food product, there may be some potential side effects, especially for people with specific health conditions. Additionally, Manuka honey should not be given to infants under 12 months old, as their digestive systems are not yet developed enough to handle the bacteria found in honey. If you have any concerns or specific health needs, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalised advice.
What Is Manuka Honey Used For?
Manuka honey is used in various ways for its special properties. It’s used as a food source or in tea to support a healthy lifestyle, topically as a skincare product, or on open wounds. And it’s said to even relieve a sore throat or cough. Some also use it as a preventative measure for keeping colds & flu away.
Here are a few other interesting uses of Manuka honey that we have come across:
- Alleviate acne.
- Dogs: For coughs, wounds, and ear infections.
- Promote digestive health.
It’s important to note that while Manuka honey has many potential health benefits, we are by no means giving you health advice. We are simply showcasing where others have claimed to find Manuka honey useful. We strongly recommend you do your own homework and decide for yourself whether Manuka honey is beneficial to you. If you are unsure or need help, seek medical advice from a medical doctor. A homeopathic doctor would be a good start for medical advice that involves using Manuka honey.
Can Manuka Honey Be Used for Cooking?
Of course! Manuka honey is a wonderful ingredient in a variety of dishes.
Can Manuka Honey Be Used in Tea?
Certainly. It’s important to remember not to use boiling water straight from a kettle. Instead, boil the water and let it cool down for a few minutes in a cup. It’s advised not to heat Manuka honey unnecessarily. The effects of Manuka honey may be lost in the process. High heat (such as boiling water) can destroy the special enzymes in the Manuka honey that carry all the goodness.
Where Can I Buy Manuka Honey?
Buying Manuka honey has never been this easy. Check out our three options below, decide on the UMF level that’s right for you, pick a size, and enjoy!
Not Sure Which Manuka Honey Is Right For You?
You can use the “Manuka Honey MGO Chart” below as a guide.
