How to use Manuka honey for the best results
Getting the most out of medicinal Manuka honey comes down to three things: choosing the right MGO strength, using it in the right way, and applying it consistently for your specific health goal.
Whether you're reaching for it at the first sign of a cold, incorporating it into your daily wellness routine, or using it topically on skin, understanding how to use Manuka honey properly is just as important as the quality of the honey itself.
Biosota Manuka honey is sourced from the nectar of native Australian Leptospermum (Manuka) trees, found growing wild in the remote bushland of Queensland and New South Wales. What makes it medicinally significant is a naturally occurring bioactive compound called Methylglyoxal, or MGO.
What is MGO in Manuka honey?
MGO is the key compound behind Manuka honey's antimicrobial activity. Every MGO rating on a Biosota jar reflects the concentration of this compound, measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). A higher number means greater bioactivity and more targeted therapeutic potential. Every single batch of Biosota Manuka honey is independently laboratory-tested to verify that MGO rating, so you know exactly what you're getting.
Choosing the right strength is the starting point. But knowing how to take it - whether straight from the jar, dissolved in warm water, or applied directly to skin - shapes the outcome just as much.
Below, we've outlined our recommendations for using Manuka honey across a range of health applications.
How to use Manuka honey for gut health
At a therapeutic level, high-strength Manuka honey functions as a natural prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria while working against harmful pathogens like Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). Research published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine found that a 5% Manuka honey solution inhibited all tested isolates of H. pylori in a laboratory setting (1).
A subsequent study in Archives of Medical Research (2016) added further detail, demonstrating that Manuka honey can help modulate inflammation at a cellular level by inhibiting H. pylori-induced activation of NF-κB and AP-1 pathways in gastric epithelial cells (2).
Together, these findings underscore Manuka honey’s potential as a highly effective natural support for gut health.
Best ways to use:
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Straight from the jar: During a digestive flare-up, take one to two teaspoons of high-MGO Manuka honey up to twice daily. As things settle, scale back to once a day and continue for ongoing support.
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Add to food: Stir through your morning muesli, blend into a smoothie, or swirl through an acai bowl. It also works beautifully in protein balls and no-bake slices.
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Pair with probiotics: Take alongside yoghurt or kefir to combine Manuka honey's prebiotic properties with live probiotic cultures, supporting digestion and nutrient absorption.
Which strength is best for gut health?
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| Australian Manuka Honey MGO 880+ |
How to use Manuka honey for colds, coughs, sore throat and flu
When the sniffles hit or a scratchy throat takes hold, Manuka honey is one of the most well-regarded natural options available. Its antimicrobial properties, combined with a soothing effect on irritated tissue, make it a practical go-to during cold and flu season.
This is supported by a strong and growing body of research. A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine examined 14 studies and concluded that honey outperformed usual care in reducing both the frequency and severity of coughs, as well as overall upper respiratory symptoms (3).
More recently, a 2023 systematic review in the European Journal of Paediatrics found that honey may perform better than over-the-counter cough medications for children over 12 months of age (4), reinforcing its value as a gentler, natural alternative.
Best ways to use:
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Straight from the jar: At the height of a cold or respiratory infection, take one to two teaspoons of medicinal Manuka honey up to twice daily. Once symptoms ease, taper back to one teaspoon per day.
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Dissolved in warm water or tea: Stir one teaspoon into warm (not boiling) water with a squeeze of fresh lemon. Keep temperatures below 40°C to preserve MGO levels and bioactivity.
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Honey and ginger tea: Combine one teaspoon of Manuka honey with freshly grated ginger and a dash of lemon in warm water. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities of both ingredients complement each other well for soothing sore throats and easing coughs.
Which strength is best for colds, coughs, sore throat and flu?
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| Australian Manuka Honey MGO 550+ | Australian Manuka Honey MGO 880+ |
Note: Honey should not be given to children under 12 months of age due to the risk of infant botulism.
How to use Manuka honey for wounds and skin infections
High-grade Manuka honey's elevated MGO concentration makes it particularly well suited for topical applications. Applied to cuts, burns, and skin infections, its antimicrobial properties can help support the body's natural healing process while moisturising the skin and providing a protective barrier against further infection.
A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients found that honey dressings significantly accelerated wound healing and improved overall healing rates when compared to conventional treatments (5).
Supporting this, research published in AIMS Microbiology (2024) highlighted the use of Manuka honey in pharmaceutical wound care formulations (6). A 2020 study in Scientific Reports also demonstrated activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a strain that resists many conventional antibiotics (7).
Best ways to use:
For Wounds, Burns and Infections
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Clean the affected area thoroughly before application.
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Apply a generous layer of Manuka honey directly to the wound, burn, or site of infection.
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Cover with a sterile bandage or dressing.
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Leave overnight and change the dressing when saturated, or as required.
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Continue until healing progresses.
For Skin Conditions Such as Acne and Eczema
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As a cleanser: Gently massage Manuka honey across your face for a few minutes, then rinse and pat dry.
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As a mask: Apply to the skin and leave for 15 to 20 minutes before rinsing off with water.
Which strength is best for skin infections and wound healing?
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Skin infections: |
Wounds, ulcers and burns: |
For serious wounds or persistent infections, please consult a healthcare professional before use.
How to use Manuka honey for immune support
Manuka honey is naturally rich in antioxidants, enzymes, and bioactive compounds including MGO, all of which contribute to its reputation as a daily wellness staple. Taken consistently, it can form a simple, practical part of an immune-supportive routine.
Best ways to use:
- Straight from the jar: One teaspoon daily is a good baseline for general immune maintenance, particularly during the cooler months when colds and flu are more prevalent.
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Add to food or drinks: Stir through warm (not boiling) herbal tea, blend into a smoothie, or spoon over muesli to work it into your everyday meals without any extra effort.
Which strength is best for building immunity?
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| Australian Manuka Honey MGO 260+ | Australian Manuka Honey MGO 550+ |
How to use Manuka honey for cancer support
Preclinical research suggests Manuka honey may offer complementary support during cancer care, owing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. It's important to note that these findings come from laboratory and animal studies, and Manuka honey should only ever be considered as a supportive food alongside a care plan guided by a qualified healthcare professional.
A 2021 review published in Nutrients found that honey and its associated flavonoids demonstrated immunostimulatory and anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical studies, with researchers noting potential as complementary adjuvants in cancer care, while acknowledging that further research is needed (8).
In a separate study from UCLA, Manuka honey was found to reduce tumour growth in ER-positive breast cancer mouse models by 84%, reduce cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and appear to enhance the effect of tamoxifen (9). These are preliminary findings, but they are generating genuine scientific interest.
Best ways to use:
Take one teaspoon of Manuka honey daily to support the following during treatment:
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General immune and antioxidant support: May help combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and support the body's defences against infection.
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Managing treatment side effects: Manuka honey may help protect tissues from the effects of chemotherapy drugs and support healing of associated wounds such as mouth, throat, and digestive ulcers.
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Energy and digestive support: May help maintain natural energy levels and support digestion during treatment.
Which strength is best for supporting cancer recovery?
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| Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1200+ | Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1717+ |
Always consult your treating healthcare professional before adding any supplement to your routine during medical treatment.
Manuka Honey MGO Strength Guide
Not sure which MGO rating is right for your needs? Use this table as a starting point.
| Health Application | Recommended MGO Strength |
|---|---|
| Daily immune maintenance | MGO 260+ |
| Cold and flu season support | MGO 550+ |
| Moderate cold, cough, or sore throat | MGO 880+ |
| Gut health and H. pylori support | MGO 880+ to 1200+ |
| Skin conditions (acne, eczema) | MGO 1200+ |
| Minor wounds and skin infections | MGO 1200+ |
| Wellness support during cancer treatment | MGO 1200+ to 1717+ |
| Deep wounds, ulcers, and burns | MGO 1717+ |
For a full breakdown of MGO levels and how to use them, visit our Manuka honey MGO guide.
Explore Biosota's Medicinal Manuka Honey Range
Medicinal Manuka honey is a versatile natural addition to a wide range of health and wellness goals. The key is matching the right MGO strength to your specific needs, so you get the level of bioactivity your situation calls for.
If you're not sure where to begin, our Manuka Honey Strength Quiz can point you in the right direction.
Or browse our full range of medicinal Manuka honey to find the strength that suits you. If you're new to Manuka honey, our guide to Manuka honey benefits is a good place to start.
Dosage and individual results may vary. Please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any treatment and if symptoms persist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use Manuka honey every day long-term?
For most healthy adults, daily use of Manuka honey is well tolerated. One teaspoon per day is a reasonable ongoing amount for general wellness. As with any food that contains natural sugars, people managing blood glucose levels should factor this into their overall diet and check with their healthcare professional if unsure.
Does the MGO rating affect how you use Manuka honey topically versus orally?
Yes, the application method and MGO strength go hand in hand. For oral use - immune support, gut health, or cold and flu relief - MGO 550+ to 880+ is generally sufficient. For topical use on skin infections, wounds, or burns, you want a higher concentration, typically MGO 1200+ or above, because the honey needs to deliver meaningful bioactivity directly at the site of application.
Is raw Manuka honey the same as medicinal-grade Manuka honey?
Not necessarily. "Raw" refers to minimal processing, but it doesn't tell you anything about MGO concentration. Medicinal-grade Manuka honey is independently tested and verified to contain a specific minimum MGO level. That verified rating is what determines its therapeutic potential -- not whether it's raw or unfiltered.
How should Manuka honey be stored to keep its potency?
Store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. There's no need to refrigerate it. Avoid leaving a metal spoon in the jar, as prolonged contact with metal can affect the honey's composition over time. Properly stored, Manuka honey has a long shelf life and will retain its MGO levels.
Can Manuka honey be applied directly to broken skin?
Yes, for minor wounds, cuts, and burns, applying Manuka honey directly to the affected area is a common approach. Use a high-MGO strength (1200+ or above), apply a generous layer, and cover with a sterile dressing. For deeper wounds, persistent infections, or any wound that is not improving, consult a healthcare professional before continuing.
What's the best way to use Manuka honey for a sore throat specifically?
Take one teaspoon straight from the jar and let it coat the throat slowly -- don't swallow it immediately. Doing this two to three times a day at the onset of symptoms gives the bioactive compounds direct contact with the irritated tissue. You can also stir it into warm water with lemon, but the straight-from-the-jar method tends to provide more targeted relief.
Disclaimer: Manuka honey is not suitable for infants under 12 months of age. The conditions described in this article are based on personal and customer experience.
Statements made have not been evaluated by the TGA (Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration) or FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). Products sold are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Manuka honey is not intended to be a substitute for other medicines or advice and is best used in conjunction with any existing treatment plans. Please consult your healthcare professional before beginning any treatment.References
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al Somal N, Coley KE, Molan PC, Hancock BM. Susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to the antibacterial activity of Manuka honey. Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, 1994, Vol. 87(1), pp. 9–12.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8308841/ -
Abdel-Latif MM, Abouzied MM. Molecular mechanisms of natural honey against H. pylori infection via suppression of NF-κB and AP-1 activation in gastric epithelial cells. Archives of Medical Research, 2016, Vol. 47(5), pp. 340–348.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27751367/ -
Abuelgasim, H., Albury, C., & Lee, J. J. (2021). Effectiveness of honey for symptomatic relief in upper respiratory tract infections: A systematic review and meta‑analysis. BMJ Evidence‑Based Medicine, 26(2), 57–64.
Link: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjebm-2020-111336 -
Kuitunen I, Renko M. Honey for acute cough in children - a systematic review. European Journal of Paediatrics, 2023, Vol. 182(9), pp. 3949–3956.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37355498/ -
Tang Y, Chen L, Ran X. Efficacy and safety of honey dressings in the management of chronic wounds: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients, 2024, Vol. 16(15), 2455.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39125335/ -
Dahiya D, Mackin C, Nigam PS. Studies on bioactivities of Manuka and regional varieties of honey for their potential use as natural antibiotic agents for infection control related to wound healing and in pharmaceutical formulations. AIMS Microbiology, 2024, Vol. 10(2), pp. 288–310.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38919717/ -
Frydman GH, Olaleye D, Annamalai D, Layne K, Yang I, Kaafarani HMA, Fox JG. Manuka honey microneedles for enhanced wound healing and the prevention and/or treatment of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) surgical site infection. Scientific Reports, 2020, Vol. 10(1), 13229.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32764604/ -
Masad, R. J., Haneefa, S. M., Mohamed, Y. A., Al-Sbiei, A., Bashir, G., Fernandez-Cabezudo, M. J., & Al-Ramadi, B. K. (2021). The immunomodulatory effects of honey and associated flavonoids in cancer. Nutrients, 13(4), 1269.
Link: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13041269 -
Heady, D. (2024, August 19). Preliminary study shows potential of Manuka honey as a nutraceutical for breast cancer. UCLA Health.
Link: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/release/preliminary-study-shows-potential-manuka-honey-nutraceutical
I would like to thank you as I have a story to tell. A friend of mine has Parkinson’s disease. For the past 12 months she has had a mouthful of ulcers and a very cracked tongue. She spent over $1000 on different remedies, some advised by doctors.
She was very depressed and losing weight as well as having a mouthful of ulcers.
We decided to buy some of your honey of which she does a mouth wash and then takes a small amount to put in her mouth running it around her mouth over the problem areas. Today she rang me and has told me that she only has one ulcer left, this is only around a week of using it. She sounded in higher spirits when she called me and could see an end to the pain in her mouth.
I can only say thank you , thank you, thank you.
I’m very glad I learned about Manuka honey from a show called Superfoods a couple of months ago. Since then, I’ve added 300+ or 400+ Biosota to coffee and tea in the morning everyday and feel like i can run a marathon or run through a block wall..This is a great tasting honey and have added it different dishes especially spring salads and desserts as sugary substitute.
Gut health is flourishing and overall I feel incredible. I think being an eternal optimist helps the healing properties as well.
Thanks!
Purchased MGO 1717 for dry eye and very painful red scaly lids and bottom lashline.
I apply a small amount on a cotton bud to all around the eye and actually in the eye twice a day.
Absolutely amazing results within the first 24 hours and completely healed within 3 days.
The skin has healed and is back to normal colour my eyes have stopped tearing ( they itched, stung and wept continually ). I had used lower MGO honey with very good results but this supercharged high MGO has been miraculous for me. I am so grateful to have my lovely eyes back.
I picked up the purchase with purchase offer of the honey, ginger and lemon to have in my tea. Beautiful. Packaging and service was second to none. A first class operation.
Wouldn’t shop anywhere else for my honey requirement. Thanks Biosota .
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