The Healing Power of Manuka Honey

According to WebMD, manuka honey is made in Australia and New Zealand by bees pollinating the native Leptospermum scoparium bush (also known as a tea tree (https://www.webmd.com/manukahoney).

Honey has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It can treat wound infections and other conditions. Researchers have found that honey has natural antibacterial qualities in the late 19th century.

Not all honey is the same. It depends on how the honey was harvested and the type. Manuka honey has anti-inflammatory properties that can help with inflammation and ease pain.

The main reason to use Manuka honey is for minor wounds and to heal from burns. This honey may help with the following eczema, dermatitis, sore throat, cough, and digestive health but there needs to be further study.

Studies show that manuka honey may fight infection and boost healing and gingivitis. Manuka honey is a lot higher than traditional honey due to manuka is a monofloral honey which means it is mostly from the nectar of one kind of flower whereas traditional honey is a polyfloral honey being its nectar is from many flowers.

The active ingredient in manuka honey is methylglyoxal (MGO). The manuka honey has a strong antibacterial effect when there is a high concentration of MGO.

Benefits of Manuka Honey

Help Treat Wounds

Manuka honey has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat wounds. The honey may speed up the healing process and prevent infections. It's been shown that using this honey can decrease pain associated with burns and promote tissue regeneration.

Help with Oral Health

There needs to be more studies done but it has been shown that this honey can protect against the buildup of plaque and prevent gingivitis by sucking on a manuka honey chew.

Helps Treat Ulcers

Studies have shown that manuka honey can heal diabetes-related ulcers faster when combined with treatment can reduce inflammation and help with preventing gastric ulcers.

Help Treat Acne

According to some studies, manuka honey can decrease inflammation, hydrate the skin, and help keep the skin from bacteria.

Manuka honey is not a cure, but it can help when combined with treatments. Use in moderation since it is expensive and too much sugar can cause you harm.

You can try manuka honey (or any kind of honey) in a nice hot cup of tea. All you need to do is place a tea bag (or loose leaf) in a cup and pour hot water into the cup. Let it steep for 3 to 5 minutes. Make sure you cover the tea while it's steeping so you don't lose the nutrients. Then add sweetener or honey to the tea. Then enjoy a hot cup of tea. I have tried this honey in my tea and love it.

Side Effects

Side effects may include allergic reactions, especially for those allergic to bees, if consumed in large quantities may rise in blood sugar and may interact with certain medications. Check with your doctor before using manuka honey if you are a diabetic because simple sugars can raise blood sugars quickly.

Disclaimer

I am not a doctor or a naturopath. This is for informational purposes only and is not taken as medical advice. If you have medical issues or are taking medication, check with your doctor first. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent diseases.