Not all honey is created equal! Manuka honey is one of the most unusual and beneficial forms of honey in the world, and that’s because it’s produced in New Zealand by bees that pollinate the Manuka tree. Most good quality honey contains some hydrogen peroxide. However, Manuka honey also has Methylglyoxal (MG), known for its antibacterial effects, which is in high concentration on the nectar flowers of the Manuka tree.
Benefits and uses of Manuka honey
- Heals Wounds. Because of its antibacterial and antioxidant properties, Manuka honey is great for healing wounds, plus it helps maintain a moist environment and protective barrier from infection. When my dog Buddy accidentally bit my nose, piercing down to my nasal cavity, I used MediHoney Gel on the wound, and I was in awe at how fast it worked to heal the pretty deep gash. It is now a staple in my medicine cabinet! No wonder that in 2007 the FDA approved Manuka honey as an aid to wound treatment.
- Soothes a sore throat. Manuka honey can provide relief when your throat is achy and sore, the antiviral and antibacterial properties in the honey will reduce inflammation and coat the lining of the throat, soothing your pain. Try this simple and easy, Natures Flu Buster if your coming down with a cold or flu.
- Treats acne. Most often acne is caused by hormonal changes, but it can also be a reaction to poor diet, stress or bacteria growth. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Manuka honey, can help keep your skin free of bacteria and expedite the healing process.
- Improves digestion. Irritable Bowel Syndrome includes constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, and research has shown that the regular consumption of Manuka honey can decrease these symptoms. Research has also shown that it attacks the bacterial infection Clostridium difficile, which is what causes severe diarrhea and inflammation of the bowel.
Choosing Quality Honey
Because of industrialization honey is not what it used to be, unfortunately most products at your local grocery store are not much different then high fructose corn syrup. So it’s important to select quality Manuka honey, the higher the concentration of MG, the stronger the antibiotic effect. Manuka honey producers use the “Unique Manuka Factor” (UMF) scale for rating the concentration of MG. Obviously, the higher the number, the more antibacterial properties.
I prefer to purchase Manuka honey with a 15 UMF or higher, this makes it a little pricey, but totally worth it! Here is a link to a local New Zealand Manuka Honey that is exceptionally good! Overall Manuka honey is the best choice of honey when it comes to medicinal uses.
Love to hear from my followers, please comment below!
