Manuka honey is native to New Zealand. It is a dark honey produced by bees, which pollinate the flowers of the Manuka bush. It has a high concentration of natural antimicrobial properties.
Manuka honey is known for it health benefits including:
Wound Healing:
When applied directly to the wound it supports healing and reduces pain. There have been numerous studies on its healing powers particularly in the areas of tissue regeneration, burns, ulcers, eyelid wounds, and post-surgery.
Gut Health:
Manuka honey acts as a prebiotic and is a good food source for the good bacteria in our guts.
Sooth Gastric Ulcers:
There are studies that show the potential of Manuka honey in helping protect against damage caused by gastric ulcers. It does this by providing an anti-inflammatory effect, helping to manage infections, and protecting the gut from further damage.
Help Gastroenteritis:
Evidence shows that honey but especially Manuka honey is helpful in treating gut infections. It can help shorten symptoms such as diarrhoea.
Prevent Build-up of Plaque:
The anti-bacterial properties of Manuka honey may help minimize the build-up of dental plaque reducing the likelihood of gingivitis or other periodontal diseases.
Help Manage Cystic Fibrosis:
The potent anti-bacterial properties of Manuka honey can enhance the effects of antibiotics in cystic fibrosis patients who have a respiratory infection.
Fight Skin Conditions:
Due to its anti-bacterial and wound healing properties, Manuka honey is now being trialled for its effect on other skin disorders including rosacea and acne.
Manuka honey contains 33 calories per teaspoon, 8.4 grams carbohydrates, and 8.2 grams of sugar. Given its high sugar content, consumption of Manuka honey should be limited to two teaspoons per day. Try it over cereal, oatmeal, or yogurt.
When looking for Manuka honey look for the UMF label, which stands for “Unique Manuka Factor”. This trademark is given only to registered licensed beekeepers, producers, and exporters of genuine Manuka honey. Also look for a number such as 10+ or 25+. This number represents the level of unique signature compounds, methylglyoxal (MG), and dihydroxyacetone (DHA) present in the honey. This number tells you its level of purity and quality – the higher the number the greater amount of Mg and DHA is present and therefore the more pure and potent the honey is.
Anyone who is allergic to honey or bees should avoid Manuka Honey. Honey of any kind should not be given to children under the age of one as it may contain a bacterium that can harm infants.
https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/health/health-benefits-manuka-honey
