Monofloral Manuka honey vs multifloral: Which is better?

When it comes to honey with real health benefits, monofloral Manuka honey holds a uniquely powerful role. Highly valued for its medicinal qualities and natural purity, this honey isn’t just a pantry staple — it’s a wellness essential.

But not all Manuka honey is the same. Understanding the difference between monofloral and multifloral Manuka honey is key to making an informed choice —  whether you’re seeking immune support, gut health, skin care, wound healing or overall wellbeing.

What does ‘monofloral’ mean, and why does it matter?

The term monofloral refers to honey made predominantly from the nectar of a single floral source -  in this case, the rare and medicinally potent Manuka bush (Leptospermum), which flowers for only a few short weeks each year. In Australia, where more than 80 species of native Manuka exist (compared to just one in New Zealand), this diversity gives rise to a range of honeys with unique flavours and bioactive profiles.

By contrast, multifloral honey is a blend, created when bees collect nectar from multiple flower species. While still rich in nutrients and flavour, multifloral honeys vary widely in consistency, potency, and medicinal properties.

Monofloral vs multifloral Manuka honey: The wellness edge

While both monofloral and multifloral Manuka honeys contain natural antioxidants, enzymes, and sugars, they differ significantly in consistency, bioactivity, and therapeutic potential.

Monofloral Manuka honey is especially valued for its consistently higher levels of methylglyoxal (MGO) — the key compound behind its potent antibacterial, antimicrobial, and prebiotic properties. Backed by scientific research, it offers a more reliable choice for those seeking targeted health support.

Dr. Nural Cokcetin, a microbiology researcher at the University of Technology Sydney, emphasises the antibacterial and prebiotic properties of monofloral Manuka honey. This unique honey is being explored as a potential treatment against drug-resistant superbugs and to help improve gut health.

How is monofloral Manuka honey identified?

In Australia, a honey is considered monofloral if more than 50% of the nectar comes from Manuka blossoms. This can be determined through chemical markers - especially MGO, DHA (dihydroxyacetone), and NPA (non-peroxide activity) - which indicate the honey’s potency and therapeutic value.

At Biosota, we go a step further. Our beehives are strategically placed in pristine Australian landscapes during the short 2 - 6 week flowering season of specific Manuka species. This careful timing ensures a nectar source that produces one of the highest medicinal-grade monofloral Manuka honeys in the world.

Our honeys range from MGO 260+ to MGO 2200+, and every batch is independently tested in accredited labs in Australia and New Zealand to verify MGO levels, purity, and authenticity.

The AMHA Mark of Authenticity

Biosota is a proud member of the Australian Manuka Honey Association (AMHA) and licensed to use the ‘Mark of Authenticity’ on products that have been independently tested, at an accredited laboratory, and met the strict criteria for defining Australian Manuka Honey.

The AMHA Mark of Authenticity is a trusted symbol underpinned by scientific research and testing protocols, that ensures honey which carries these Marks are pure, natural, 100% authentic Manuka honey, produced in Australia.

Biosota’s commitment to purity and sustainability

As producers of premium Australian monofloral Manuka honey, we take pride in delivering a product that’s as close to nature as possible — unadulterated, raw, and organic.

Our honey is:

• Sourced from remote and untouched terrains of Australia
  

• Free of glyphosate and synthetic residues
  

• Bottled with minimal processing to preserve its bioactive strength

We’re not just beekeepers; we’re stewards of a rare and valuable natural resource. Our goal is to share honey that nurtures your body while protecting the biodiversity that makes it possible.

Choosing monofloral for proven potency

While multifloral honeys may offer variety in taste and general nutrition, monofloral Manuka honey remains the gold standard for those seeking reliable, targeted wellness support and health benefits.

Whether used to soothe a sore throat, support immune function, or enhance gut health, its potent natural properties make it a standout in the world of functional foods.

Ready to experience the purity and power of monofloral Manuka honey for yourself? Take our quiz to find the medicinal strength that’s right for your health goals.

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.