Manuka honey, a distinguished variety of honey, is made by bees in New Zealand that pollinate the Leptospermum scoparium flower, commonly referred to as the Manuka bush. Interestingly, this honey is also produced by bees in Southeastern Australia, where it is derived from several species within the Leptospermum genus.

Beyond its delightful flavor, Manuka honey possesses remarkable medicinal properties, making it much more than just a sweet treat. The bees gather nectar from Manuka plants to create honey that boasts unique characteristics, including an active compound known as methylglyoxal (MGO). Research indicates that MGO exhibits potent antibacterial effects, distinguishing Manuka honey from other honey varieties.

It is this very MGO that enhances the antibacterial potency of Manuka honey, setting it apart and giving it an edge over conventional honey. In addition to MGO, Manuka honey is packed with essential nutrients, containing various vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that contribute to its therapeutic versatility. These attributes render Manuka honey an effective and adaptable agent for various health uses. Continue reading to discover what qualities to seek in this exceptional honey and explore its numerous applications.

Which Grade of Manuka Honey is the Most Beneficial?

The grading of New Zealand Manuka honey is intricate, with various systems in use, such as the UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor), which is regarded as the most rigorous and highest standard for assessing Manuka honey quality. Other grading systems utilized in New Zealand include MGS (Molan Gold Standard), K-Factor, and Bio Active, which also consider specific markers like MGO (Methylglyoxal) and NPA (Non-Peroxide Activity) in their honey assessments. The UMF number displayed on the label indicates the concentration of MGO in the honey jar, ranging from UMF 5+ to UMF 20+. A higher UMF rating signifies enhanced antibacterial properties, indicating that the Manuka honey is more potent. MGO is a naturally occurring compound in Manuka honey responsible for its distinctive antibacterial characteristics. NPA, another antibacterial component, contributes further to the unique antiseptic qualities of Manuka honey.

A laboratory study conducted in 2017 revealed that Manuka honey with a UMF rating of 10+ and above exhibited heightened antibacterial effects, with UMF 20+ proving effective against antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. In Australia, Manuka honey follows its own grading system, which can be marked as AMHA (Australian Manuka Honey Association) Authentic or Authorised, with labels required to disclose the levels of MGO present in their products. To ensure you're purchasing genuine Manuka honey, look for products that are UMF certified, AMHA Authentic, or AMHA Authorised, as these will contain the three essential signature compounds that validate its authenticity: Leptosperin, DHA, and MGO. Leptosperin is a naturally occurring compound found exclusively in the nectar of Manuka plants and a few closely related species, making it a key identifier of true Manuka honey. Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), present in the nectar of Manuka flowers, converts into MGO during the honey-making process, further enhancing its beneficial properties.

Uses of Manuka Honey

Extensive research, including both laboratory and animal studies — such as notable experiments conducted on rats — demonstrates that Manuka honey possesses significant antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. These beneficial attributes indicate that it may assist in resolving infections and hastening the healing process of the skin, as highlighted in a comprehensive review from 2016. Consequently, it is frequently utilized in medical dressings to facilitate recovery from surgical procedures, manage diabetes-related wounds, and treat burn injuries.

Preliminary investigations suggest that Manuka honey may also be effective in addressing various conditions, including:

  • Combatting bacteria associated with tooth decay and periodontal disease 
  • Alleviating symptoms linked to dry eye by diminishing bacteria and inflammation
  • Inhibiting infections caused by H. pylori

Additionally, Manuka honey has the potential to enhance skin appearance by regulating its pH level and eliminating the buildup of dead skin cells. Acting as a humectant, it effectively hydrates the skin, which has led numerous cosmetic companies to incorporate Manuka honey into a wide array of products, including lip balms, moisturizing creams, shampoos, and conditioners. It's important to note that while many studies on Manuka honey show promising results, most have been limited in scope, and their findings have yet to be confirmed by larger-scale research. Further studies are essential to substantiate these claims.

Where to Purchase Manuka Honey

Once a rare find outside of New Zealand, Manuka honey is now widely available due to its surging popularity. You can easily purchase this unique honey from numerous natural and grocery stores, as well as select warehouse clubs across various countries, including Australia and Canada. Additionally, online shopping has made it even more accessible for enthusiasts worldwide.

Here are some physical retail stores where you can find Manuka honey:

  • select Costco locations
  • The Vitamin Shoppe
  • Kroger
  • Fresh Thyme
  • Whole Foods Market

When selecting Manuka honey, it is essential to look for the UMF or AMHA certification on the label. These certifications indicate the honey's potency and ensure that the product you are purchasing is indeed authentic Manuka honey. Moreover, if the honey originates from New Zealand or Australia, it is more likely to be genuine, providing you with the quality you expect.

Precautions and Side Effects

While Manuka honey is beneficial for treating minor health issues, it is essential to avoid self-medicating for infections or any serious conditions. Always seek guidance from your healthcare professional for appropriate advice. Prior to making a purchase, ensure that you have thoroughly researched the product and understood its grading system. If you have a known allergy to bees, it is advisable to steer clear of products that contain Manuka honey  as they may trigger an allergic reaction.

Individuals with diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before incorporating Manuka honey into their diet, as its elevated sugar content could potentially increase blood sugar levels. Additionally, it is crucial to refrain from giving any type of raw honey to children under the age of 12 months. It's important to note that Manuka honey may interact with certain medications, particularly chemotherapy agents used in cancer treatment. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and alternative therapies you are taking to prevent any adverse interactions.

The Takeaway

Once a rare find in the markets of the United States, Manuka honey is now readily accessible, both in health food stores and through online retailers. When purchasing this unique honey, it's crucial to look for the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) label on the packaging, as this certification indicates that the product is authentic and possesses sufficient potency to deliver health benefits. As with any natural remedy, consulting with your healthcare provider prior to use is advisable. It's important to inquire whether Manuka honey is suitable for your individual health needs and to ensure that it won't interfere with any medications or supplements you may currently be taking.