Manuka Honey Benefits
What is so special about manuka honey?
Manuka honey is a type of honey that is produced by bees that pollinate the manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), which is native to New Zealand and parts of Australia. This honey is renowned for its unique properties been a super-food with clinically proven antimicrobial and wound healing activities.
Here are some of the reported benefits of manuka honey:
Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Properties: Manuka honey contains a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which is believed to contribute to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It may help in fighting against harmful bacteria.
Wound Healing: Due to its antimicrobial properties, manuka honey has been used topically for wound healing. It is believed to help in preventing infection and promoting the healing process.
Sore Throat Relief: Manuka honey is often used as a natural remedy for sore throats. Its soothing properties may help relieve irritation and inflammation in the throat.
Digestive Health: Some people believe that consuming manuka honey may have positive effects on digestive health. It is thought to help with issues such as indigestion and acid reflux.
Immune System Support: The antioxidants present in manuka honey, along with its potential antimicrobial properties, are believed to contribute to overall immune system support.
Dental Health: Manuka honey may have benefits for oral health. It is being investigated for its potential to reduce plaque formation and gum disease.
Skin Care: When applied topically, manuka honey is believed to have moisturizing and soothing effects on the skin. Some people use it as a natural remedy for conditions like eczema and acne.
It's important to note that while there is scientific evidence supporting some of these benefits, more research is needed to fully understand the extent of manuka honey's therapeutic properties. Additionally, the effectiveness of manuka honey can vary based on factors such as its UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating, which indicates the honey's potency.
Before using manuka honey for any health purpose, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have allergies or pre-existing health conditions. Additionally, not all honey labeled as "manuka" is created equal, so it's important to look for reputable brands and check for UMF or MGO ratings to ensure you are getting a quality product.
What grade of manuka honey is best?
Manuka honey is often graded based on two key components: the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) and the Methylglyoxal (MGO) content.
These grading systems help consumers assess the quality and potential therapeutic properties of the honey. Here's how each grading system works.
Unique Manuka Factor (UMF)
UMF is a grading system developed by the UMF Honey Association in New Zealand.
The UMF rating is based on the presence of specific compounds in manuka honey, including leptosperin, dihydroxyacetone (DHA), and methylglyoxal (MGO).
The UMF rating is a scale that ranges from 5 to 20 or higher. The higher the UMF rating, the higher the concentration of beneficial compounds in the honey.
A UMF rating of 10 or above is generally considered to be a honey with significant therapeutic benefits.
Methylglyoxal (MGO)
MGO is a naturally occurring compound found in varying concentrations in different types of honey, but it is particularly high in manuka honey.
MGO is one of the key compounds responsible for the antibacterial properties of manuka honey.
Manuka honey is often graded based on its MGO content, which is measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg) of honey.
Higher MGO levels indicate a higher concentration of methylglyoxal and are associated with greater antimicrobial activity.
MGO 100+ to 250+: Entry-level grades. These may be suitable for general consumption, sweetening, and mild therapeutic benefits.
MGO 400+ to 550+: Intermediate grades. These are often recommended for more specific health applications, such as wound healing, immune support, and digestive health.
MGO 800+ and higher: High-grade honey. This level of MGO is associated with potent antibacterial properties and is often recommended for more serious health concerns, such as infections or immune system support.
Conclusion
It's important to note that while these grading systems provide a way to assess the quality of manuka honey, they don't necessarily measure all the potential bioactive compounds present.
Some experts suggest that a combination of both UMF and MGO ratings, along with other factors such as geographical origin and processing methods, can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the honey's quality.
When purchasing manuka honey, it's recommended to look for products from reputable brands that display UMF or MGO ratings on their labels. The specific therapeutic benefits of manuka honey can vary, so choosing a product with a higher UMF or MGO rating may be preferable for certain health applications.
Additionally, always check for third-party testing and certification to ensure the authenticity and quality of the honey.
There is a website where you can check if a manuka honey is certified, to guarantee its quality.
