Manuka honey benefits: A natural health-boosting superfood

Honey has been recognised for its natural healing properties in folk and traditional medicine for millennia. Not only has it been celebrated as a symbol of abundance and fertility, but it has even held a place of honour in sacred ceremonies dedicated to its worship.

Revered by many ancient cultures as far more than a luxury staple food, honey is rich with nutrients, antioxidants and antibacterial qualities. However, not all honey offers the same benefits for health and wellbeing.

Due to the presence of naturally occurring bioactive properties, Manuka honey benefits surpass other honeys, providing superior therapeutic and medicinal value which can support your journey to greater health.

Manuka honey benefits explained

Earthy-flavoured Manuka honey is special for many reasons, primarily because it's made by bees pollinating the Manuka tree, which is native to Australia and New Zealand.

Manuka honey is distinct from other honeys due to its naturally-occurring bioactive compound, Methylglyoxal (MGO). The concentration of MGO in Manuka honey is responsible for its powerful antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. The higher the MGO, the higher the potency and medicinal benefits. 

Antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits

Helping to combat harmful bacteria, Manuka honey is a science-backed antibacterial and antimicrobial functional food. With its high MGO content, it can be highly effective in healing antibiotic-resistant wounds, burns and skin infections. 

Antioxidant benefits 

Manuka honey is packed with antioxidants that neutralise free radicals in the body. These rogue elements can cause oxidation and inflammation at a cellular level. Over time these toxins can contribute to aging and chronic diseases and lead to long-term health issues. Manuka honey helps support cellular repair and promotes overall vitality. 

Anti-inflammatory benefits

The unique MGO and leptosperin compounds in Manuka honey help reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and other inflammatory agents in the body. This can help improve digestive health, mental health, immune function and prevent chronic diseases.

Immune-boosting benefits

Helping to support the body’s overall immune defence, Manuka honey also enhances immune response and reduces stress on the immune system, aiding in the body’s natural repair processes.

Natural source of energy

Manuka honey provides a natural energy boost. Helping to combat fatigue, it makes a wonderful addition to a healthy diet. 

Whether you simply want to improve your everyday wellbeing or need additional support for more complex chronic conditions, Manuka honey naturally supports good health.

Continue reading to discover the scientifically backed benefits and medicinal uses of this exceptional honey.

Manuka honey benefits for gut health

 

Manuka honey contains fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), which act as prebiotics. Prebiotics are not digested by the human body until they reach the colon, where they are fermented by beneficial bacteria (probiotics). This process helps support the growth and activity of good bacteria, promoting a balanced and healthy gut microbiome.

Manuka honey’s antibacterial properties have also been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. This dual action—promoting good bacteria while inhibiting bad bacteria—makes Manuka honey particularly beneficial for gut health.

There are also the powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of Manuka honey, which can help soothe digestive inflammation, alleviating symptoms of gastric ulcers, gastritis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

In addition, Manuka honey exhibits remarkable benefits for the gut-brain axis. This bidirectional link plays an important role in regulating your digestion, mood and overall well being. Research shows that the polyphenols and tryptophan in Manuka honey can help combat a range of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and depression. 

Read more about Manuka honey benefits for gut health. 

Manuka honey benefits for colds & flu

 

Manuka honey’s antibacterial properties can provide natural relief for colds and flu, helping to combat the bacteria that can worsen symptoms.

Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe sore throats and reduce irritation in the respiratory tract, while its antiviral properties can assist in reducing the severity and duration of infections like the flu. 

Additionally, its high antioxidant content supports the immune system, helping the body combat infections more effectively and helping you feel better, faster.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for colds and flu.

Manuka honey benefits for kids’ immunity

Manuka honey offers several immune-boosting benefits for children (over the age of 1). Its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help protect against infections and also speed up the healing of wounds when applied topically. 

As a natural sweetener, Manuka honey can be a healthier alternative to processed sugars while supporting overall immunity. It is also effective in providing protection against common colds, coughs, and other illnesses.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for kids’ immunity.

Manuka honey benefits for coughs & strep throat

Manuka honey is highly effective in soothing coughs and treating strep throat, thanks to its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. 

With a thick, viscous texture, it forms a natural protective barrier, coating the throat to ease irritation and suppress coughing.

High MGO Manuka honey actively combats harmful bacteria, including Streptococcus, which causes strep throat. Additionally, its antiviral, antifungal, and antioxidant compounds boost the immune system, helping to relieve symptoms and speed up recovery from infections.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for coughs & strep throat relief.

Antibacterial benefits of Manuka honey for infections

 

Manuka honey benefits for wounds and ulcers

 

Manuka honey's antibacterial and antioxidant properties are a powerhouse for effective wound healing. Its low pH makes it more acidic, creating an environment that helps inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, while promoting the activity of certain enzymes, peptides, and proteins that are important for wound healing and tissue repair. 

The acidity of Manuka honey also helps to draw moisture out of wounds, which aids in faster healing and tissue regeneration. It drains water from surface bacteria as well, effectively killing them in the process. Naturally high in sugar, when applied topically to wounds, it acts as a protective barrier.

In a recent study, where Manuka honey was used as a wound dressing material, it was shown to promote the growth of tissue for wound repair, break down and remove dead tissue and suppress inflammation. 

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for wounds and ulcers.

Manuka honey benefits for cancer recovery

Manuka honey offers promising benefits for cancer management and recovery due to its unique medicinal compounds. High in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Manuka honey can help neutralise harmful free radicals as well as reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, conditions that are often associated with cancer. 

Additionally, the prebiotics in Manuka honey promote the growth of beneficial bacteria while reducing harmful ones, helping to maintain a balanced gut microbiome. This not only supports digestive health but also strengthens the immune system, enhancing the body's overall defense against illnesses such as cancer.

Manuka honey has also shown potential in protecting healthy cells from the toxic effects of chemotherapy, while providing relief from the painful side effects and treatment-associated nausea.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for cancer recovery.

Manuka honey benefits for burns

 

Used as a natural remedy since ancient times, the potent bioactive and hydrogen peroxide compounds in Manuka honey act as a super-effective treatment for burns.

With a unique ability to regenerate cells and skin tissue, Manuka honey promotes quick healing, while also providing relief from the intense pain resulting from burns.

Helping to prevent infection, Manuka honey naturally removes dead tissue, stimulates the release of healing proteins and enzymes, promotes tissue recovery and healthy skin regeneration.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for burns.

Manuka honey benefits for skin conditions

 

You have likely come across skincare products that list Manuka honey as a key therapeutic ingredient. Is it a marketing gimmick or is there some truth behind the product’s claims?

Manuka honey has been used as a traditional skin remedy for centuries. Nourishing and rejuvenating your skin, this golden elixir acts as a natural exfoliator and moisturiser.

Rich in anti-inflammatory properties, Manuka honey is also highly effective in relieving skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Plus its therapeutic abilities can help treat infections such as staph, along with acne, cold sores, sunburn, and blemishes.

Read more about Manuka honey benefits for skin infections.

Manuka honey benefits for sinusitis & allergies

Manuka honey has been shown to effectively manage symptoms of allergies and sinusitis. 

Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help combat allergens and irritants, making it beneficial for conditions like eczema and hay fever. 

It’s also been found to address stubborn bacteria and biofilm, offering relief for those with chronic sinusitis, where conventional treatments may only offer limited efficacy.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for sinusitis and allergies.

Manuka honey benefits for endurance sports and recovery

Manuka honey is an excellent natural energy source for athletes, offering a slow release of carbohydrates to sustain energy levels during training and competition. Unlike refined sugars, it helps maintain muscle glycogen, which is crucial for endurance. 

With 17 grams of carbohydrates per tablespoon, a small amount can effectively replenish glycogen stores, making it a convenient and efficient fuel during exercise. Additionally, its low glycaemic index supports steady energy without spikes or crashes.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for endurance sports and recovery.

Manuka honey benefits for diabetes

Manuka honey offers unique benefits for people with diabetes. Not only is it a natural alternative to sugar, but it can also be beneficial in treating ulcers linked to this chronic disease.

Thanks to its potent antibacterial properties, Manuka honey helps combat Helicobacter pylori, a leading cause of peptic ulcers. Its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO) help reduce infection and inflammation in diabetic foot ulcers while promoting wound healing. 

Though Manuka honey has a lower glycaemic index than refined sugars, diabetic patients should still use it in moderation and consult their healthcare provider to safely incorporate it into their management plan.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for diabetes.

Manuka honey benefits for oral health

Manuka honey provides several key benefits for oral health, including the ability to fight bacteria that cause gum infections, tooth decay, and plaque buildup. 

Its antibacterial properties, powered by compounds such as Methylglyoxal (MGO) and hydrogen peroxide, effectively target harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay and plaque buildup.

Manuka honey is also effective in healing gum wounds and mouth ulcers, offering soothing and anti-inflammatory relief. When used as a mouthwash or with toothpaste, Manuka honey can reduce bad breath and promote overall oral hygiene.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for oral health.

Manuka Honey Benefits for fertility

 

Incorporating Manuka honey into a balanced, healthy diet can offer various benefits for both health and fertility. 

Packed with antioxidants, it can help protect reproductive cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. It also strengthens the immune system, which is vital for fertility. 

The nutrients present in Manuka honey, including amino acids and trace minerals like magnesium, iron, and zinc - support overall body function which is essential for reproductive health.

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for fertility.

Manuka honey benefits for pets & vets

Manuka honey can be very beneficial for pets and animals. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties promote wound healing, making it an effective treatment for cuts, burns, and surgical wounds, while reducing infection and scarring. 

Manuka honey can also help alleviate itching and irritation caused by skin conditions such as dermatitis. It is excellent in supporting animal digestive health, helping to soothe gastrointestinal inflammation and encourage the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. 

Read more about the Manuka honey benefits for pets and vets.

Medicinal Manuka Honey - MGO Grades Explained

Premium medicinal Manuka honey is defined as high-grade MGO Manuka honey that is scientifically tested for its curative compounds such as antioxidants, bioflavonoids, and immune-boosting enzymes.

This honey presents higher levels of MGO (Methylglyoxal) when compared to table-grade Manuka honey and is naturally bio-active with anti-bacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties for the holistic prevention and treatment of various health ailments.

Commonly known uses include burns, wounds, infection, oral care, ulcers, gut health, cold & flu, sore throat, cough, immunity building, general well-being, and beauty and skincare. 

The higher the MGO number of the Manuka Honey, the stronger its antimicrobial bioactivity levels and the more potent the natural medicinal benefits.

The MGO levels of Biosota’s high-strength medicinal Manuka honey ranges are regularly tested and verified authentic by independent accredited laboratories both in Australia and New Zealand.

At Biosota Organics, our passion lies in the natural healing power of Manuka honey.

Our premium Australian Manuka Honey is cultivated by nature with a whole lot of science and love as our secret ingredients.

 

 

Disclaimer: 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. For all of the science-backed and evidence-based information on the natural healing properties of medicinal-grade Manuka honey, please refer to the latest published Manuka Honey research and use at your own discretion.