Manuka honey is a type of honey which is originated from New Zealand. When bees pollinate from the flower Leptospermum scoparium, also known as the manuka bush, it produces more potent honey than standard honey. Manuka honey is considered special due to its higher concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a naturally occurring compound. All honey contains some antibiotic qualities. Hydrogen peroxide provides this benefit in normal honey, whereas, in manuka honey, it’s Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). UMF is a grading system that utilizes a scale of 5 – 20 to measure each batch of honey’s antibacterial strength. The three natural compounds present in manuka honey determine the UMF.
- Leptisperin – nectar from manuka bush
- DHA – a type of omega-3 fatty acid
- Methylglyoxal – an antibacterial component
UMF number is directly proportional to manuka honey’s antibacterial properties. Higher the number stronger is the honey’s antibacterial properties.
What Manuka Honey UMF You Should Use?
| 0 to 4 | Not detectable |
| 5 to 9 | Provides general honey health benefits |
| 10 to 14 | Supports natural healing and suitable for therapeutic usage |
| 15+ | Highly therapeutic but shouldn’t exceed taking one tablespoon at a time |
Health Benefits of Manuka Honey
1. Aids Wound Healing
Honey has been used to treat burns, wounds, and boils for centuries. Honey’s antibacterial and antioxidant properties maintain a moist wound environment and act as a protective barrier when applied directly to the skin. It prevents microbial infections in the wound by reducing the growth of bacteria. Manuka honey promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, increases tissue regeneration, and reduces pain caused by burns.
2. Promotes Oral Health
It is essential to minimize harmful oral bacteria that cause plaque formation to avoid tooth decay and keep your gums healthy. However, you shouldn’t completely wipe out the good oral bacteria that help to keep your mouth healthy. Manuka honey fights bad oral bacteria that cause plaque formation, gum inflammation, and tooth decay.
3. Soothes Sore Throat
Warm honey and lime water are an ancient home remedy for cold. Manuka honey is generally used as a first-line treatment to reduce the symptoms of a short-term cough. Its antibacterial and antiviral properties fight the bacteria that cause pain and reduce inflammation. Additionally, it coats the inner lining of the throat for calming relief.
4. Treats Acne
Acne is generally caused by hormonal changes, but it can also be influenced by factors like poor diet, stress, and bacteria growth in clogged pores. Manuka honey helps to keep your skin bacteria-free, which accelerates the acne healing process. Likewise, it reduces irritation and inflammation related to acne. To enjoy these benefits apply manuka honey directly on the affected area and leave this mask on for at least 15 minutes.
5. Improves Sleep
Manuka works as a natural sleep aid by promoting deep sleep. It releases glycogen, which is needed for important body functions during sleep. Consume honey mixed with milk during bedtime, which helps to release melatonin into the brain to get deep sleep. Insomnia prompts many health disorders such as stroke, diabetes, and arthritis. Since honey promotes quality sleep, it could potentially help to avoid many other health problems.
Summary
Manuka is a type of honey. It is considered special due to its higher concentration of methylglyoxal. It has been used to treat wounds, burns for centuries. Manuka honey fights bad oral bacteria that cause plaque formation, gum inflammation, and tooth decay. Manuka honey helps to keep your skin bacteria-free, which accelerates the acne healing process. Manuka works as a natural sleep aid by promoting deep sleep.
