manuka honey
Manuka honey is an add on sweetener to any of our products, below you will find fascinating information and a myriad of benefits about this ingredient.
Manuka honey is full of antibacterial properties which come from its high levels of MGO. It is usually used to treat wounds and burns, particularly non-healing or infected tissues. Manuka honey also attacks harmful oral bacteria, soothes inflamed throats and eases symptoms of chronic digestive conditions.
Native to New Zealand, manuka honey is produced when bees pollinate the manuka bush. Unlike other types of honey, manuka honey is packed full of antibacterial properties and anti-inflammatory powers.
One of the most active components in manuka honey is methylglyoxal (MGO), which comes from the conversion of another compound called dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and manuka flowers contain a lot of DHA. Generally, the higher the MGO concentration, the more antibacterial the honey is.
Manuka honey is rated for its potency on the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) scale. The UMF reviews the concentrations of MGO, DHA and a natural chemical found in manuka called leptosperin. The honey needs to have a minimum of UMF 10 to be considered beneficial to our health.
Manuka honey is predominantly used to treat wounds and burns. Multiple studies have shown that manuka honey can work wonders on non-healing wounds and that it promotes the regeneration of tissues. It has also proved to be effective at treating infections caused by antibiotic-resistant conditions such as MRSA.
Studies have also suggested that manuka honey can also boost good oral health and attack harmful bacteria in the mouth. Manuka honey’s powerful antibacterial effects make it unlikely to cause tooth decay and cavities, like other kinds of honey.
Due to its status as an antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory, manuka honey is also highly effective at soothing sore throats. As well as killing the bacteria that causes the pain, the honey throws a smooth coating over the throat providing a deeper relief.
There is also research to suggest that manuka honey can treat stomach ulcers and ease symptoms of digestive conditions such as IBS by increasing antioxidant levels in the body.
Manuka honey is considered safe for most people to consume but it should be avoided if you have an allergy to honey or bees. Like other types of honey, it can affect blood sugar levels, so proceed with caution if you have diabetes.
Key Benefits of manuka honey include:
- Antibacterial Activity: Manuka honey exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial activity, including against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria such as Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Its antimicrobial properties are attributed to the presence of MGO and other compounds, which can help inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
- Digestive Health: Manuka honey can help digestive health. It has prebiotic and antimicrobial activity against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with stomach ulcers. Manuka honey can also help alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Immune System Support: Manuka honey contains bioactive compounds, such as antioxidants and phenolic acids, that can help support the immune system. These compounds can help reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and promote overall immune health.
- Oral Health: Manuka honey has shown promising effects in promoting oral health. Its antibacterial properties can help inhibit the growth of harmful oral bacteria and reduce plaque formation. Manuka honey can be beneficial in preventing dental caries (cavities) and gingivitis.
- Skin Care: Manuka honey has been used in skincare products due to its potential benefits for the skin. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe and moisturise the skin, improve acne-prone skin, and support wound healing.
- Wound Healing: Manuka honey has been used traditionally to promote wound healing. It has antimicrobial properties, attributed in part to its high methylglyoxal (MGO) content, which can help prevent infection and aid in wound healing. Manuka honey can help improve healing outcomes for wounds, burns, and ulcers.
Manuka honey, like any other food product, may cause allergic reactions or interact with certain medical conditions. Individuals with the following conditions or allergies should exercise caution or avoid consuming manuka honey:
- Honey Allergy: Some people may be allergic to honey in general, which can cause symptoms ranging from mild itching or hives to severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis.
- Bee Sting Allergy: Individuals with allergies to bee venom may also be at risk of experiencing allergic reactions to honey, including manuka honey, due to potential cross-reactivity.
- Diabetes: Manuka honey is high in natural sugars, primarily fructose and glucose. People with diabetes should monitor their sugar intake and consult with a healthcare provider before consuming honey, including manuka honey, to ensure it fits into their dietary plan.
- Gastrointestinal Conditions: Some gastrointestinal conditions, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, may be aggravated by the consumption of honey, particularly if it is consumed in large quantities.
- Infants Under 1 Year Old: Honey, including manuka honey, should not be given to infants under one year of age due to the risk of infant botulism, a rare but serious illness caused by exposure to bacterial spores often found in honey.
- Pollen Allergies: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to pollen found in honey, including manuka honey. People with known pollen allergies should be aware of the potential risk.
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