How can Manuka honey help protect you against COVID-19

They say an apple a day keeps the Doctor away, but really, we think you should swap the apple for a teaspoon of Manuka honey. Considered both a food and medicine, Manuka honey is well regarded for its antibiotic properties. It has long been used for healing cuts and wounds, scars, soothing a sore throat, reducing cough and as a general immunity booster.
Naturally, the question has been raised as to whether nature’s medicine can help protect COVID-19 as an effective natural therapy. When it comes to the medicinal properties of honey, Manuka is the king of the honey world.

The difference between Manuka honey and regular honey

Manuka honey is unique as it has properties that are not present in ordinary honey. Containing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, the most notable factor of Manuka honey is its NPA or Non-Peroxide Activity. This is a measurement of the antiseptic property of the honey and the higher the NPA rating, the more potent the honey.
Manuka honey also gets measured with a value called MGO. Methylglyoxal or MGO is the naturally occurring compound that provides antibacterial qualities, similarly, the higher the MGO number, the stronger the antibacterial and beneficial effects of the honey.

Not sure which MGO is right for you? Explore our Manuka guide.

The therapeutic benefits of Manuka honey

Throughout history, honey has been well documented for its many benefits. The medicinal properties of honey originate from the floral source used by bees. Manuka honey is specially sourced from bees that pollinate the Leptospermum (Manuka or Tea) trees.
Manuka honey boasts a range of beneficial components including proteins, antioxidants, amino acids, magnesium, calcium, iodine, phosphorus and several vitamins. Researchers have found that the honey is effective against a wide range of pathogens (2) and Manuka honey’s medicinal properties work by reducing acute inflammation by enhancing immune response (1).
It is widely regarded that honey is a natural and safe form of antibiotic, with no reported bacterial resistance (2). The composition of Manuka honey consists of carbohydrates, minerals, proteins, fatty acids, phenolic and flavonoid compounds. But the main medicinal benefit of Manuka honey is its antibacterial properties which provide numerous wellbeing advantages including gut health, immunity, oral care and healthier skin.

Manuka honey and COVID-19

The internet is not short of wild Coronavirus cures and while we are making no such claims, Manuka honey is known to be remarkably nutrient-rich and supportive of the immune system.
Natural honey has been demonstrated as a potent antimicrobial in many research investigations and is considered a good alternative to antiviral drugs for the treatment of some viral infections (3). Research has demonstrated that honey, in particular Manuka honey, is a good deterrent against the influenza virus and helps to prevent virus replication (4).
Consuming honey may help in reducing the severity of infections either directly, based on its potential antiviral effects against other viruses as shown in earlier studies, or indirectly through boosting immune responses (6).
Studies on the effects of Manuka honey on COVID-19 need further exploration, but from research and anecdotal evidence, Manuka honey has shown potential medicinal value against some viruses.
The key is to choose a quality Manuka honey with a high MGO and NPA rating. Biosota produces some of the rarest and strongest certified organic Manuka honey in the world with great amounts of MGO and NPA – it’s also a delicious, easy and ideal addition to your health and wellness regime.

*Note: This information should not be substituted for medical advice from a certified practitioner. Please consult your doctor if you experience any FLU or COVID-like symptoms.

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7750705/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6613335/
3. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/study/NCT04323345
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24880005/
5. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2020/FO/D0FO01153C#!divAbstract
6. https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/25/21/5017/pdf