Manuka Honey Facts or Fiction: 15 Truths and Myths Uncovered

Manuka honey has gained a reputation over the years as a superfood with incredible health benefits. But with all the buzz, it can be hard to separate Manuka honey facts from fiction. Does it have natural healing properties? Is it really more effective than regular honey? 

In this blog, we’ll uncover 15 common claims and sort the facts from fiction so you can understand the true benefits of Manuka honey.

1. Manuka is a type of bee

FICTION

Manuka refers to the Manuka bush. Bees collect nectar from its flowers to create Manuka honey, which is known for its antibacterial, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties.

The bees that make Manuka honey are regular European honeybees, the same species responsible for most commercial honey production worldwide.

2. Manuka honey comes only from New Zealand

FICTION 

The Manuka bush (Leptospermum) is native to both Australia and New Zealand. Manuka trees grow naturally in both countries, with Australia having over 80 species of Leptospermum, while New Zealand has one dominant species.

3. Manuka honey has unique healing properties

FACT 

Manuka honey stands out from regular honey due to its exceptional antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Its potency comes from methylglyoxal (MGO), a powerful antibacterial compound formed from dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is naturally present in the nectar of Manuka flowers. Additionally, it contains leptosperin, a unique compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Leptosperin is also used to verify authenticity.

While all raw honey has hydrogen peroxide, Manuka honey’s added MGO and non-peroxide activity (NPA) make it significantly more effective for healing and bacterial protection. It also boasts higher levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which help support immune function and reduce inflammation.

With its low pH and high sugar content, Manuka honey also creates an environment that inhibits bacterial growth and enhances wound healing, making it far more medicinally potent than everyday honey.

4. Manuka honey’s health benefits are a new discovery

FICTION

Scientists have been studying Manuka honey’s remarkable health benefits for nearly 50 years. With over 500 research papers published since the 1980s, this honey is known for its unique bioactive properties that support gut, oral, and skin health, soothe coughs and colds, aid wound care, and strengthen the immune system. 

To deliver measurable health benefits, Manuka honey must have a minimum MGO rating of 83+. As the world’s most complex honey, it contains over 2,300 compounds, making it a true marvel of nature.

5. Manuka Honey supports recovery from a range of health concerns

FACT

Manuka honey’s antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties make it a valuable addition to your wellness routine, supporting gut health, immunity, wound healing, and skin conditions.

By incorporating it as part of a healthy lifestyle, you can enhance your body’s natural defenses and experience the full benefits of this natural powerhouse.

6. The higher the MGO, the more potent the honey

FACT

MGO levels indicate Manuka honey’s antibacterial strength. The higher the MGO, the more medicinally potent it is. However, higher isn’t always necessary. For general health and colds and flu, moderate MGO levels may be sufficient, while higher levels are better for infections, wounds and burns.

Take a look at the table below for our recommended medicinal uses for each grade of Manuka honey.

7. Manuka honey helps with gut health

FACT

Studies suggest Manuka honey supports gut health by balancing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and promoting beneficial microbes. Its high MGO content gives it antibacterial properties, while its antioxidant qualities protect cells from oxidative stress. 

High-MGO Manuka honey can boost probiotic growth, particularly Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, essential for a healthy gut. A balanced microbiome may help relieve IBS, ulcerative colitis, gastritis, bloating, and Crohn’s disease symptoms. Medical-grade Manuka honey has also been shown to inhibit harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and C. difficile while encouraging beneficial bacteria growth.

8. Manuka honey can help fight antibiotic-resistant bacteria

FACT

Manuka honey’s powerful antibacterial properties have the ability to eradicate antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Its high MGO content makes it effective in combating infections, particularly when used in wound care and as a topical treatment. 

It’s important to note that while Manuka honey can be a valuable natural supplement to traditional antibiotics, it should not replace prescribed medical treatments for serious infections. Instead, it can be used alongside conventional therapies to support healing and reduce bacterial resistance. 

As with any natural remedy, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before incorporating Manuka honey into your health regimen, especially if you have underlying conditions or are on medication.

9. Manuka honey can help soothe a sore throat, a cough, and cold and flu symptoms

FACT

Thanks to its powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties, a spoonful of Manuka honey can help ease throat irritation, suppress coughs, and relieve symptoms of colds and flu. Its high MGO content combats bacteria, while its thick, smooth texture coats the throat, reducing dryness and discomfort. 

A recent study suggests that Manuka honey can be as effective as some over-the-counter cough syrups, making it a natural and gentle remedy for sore throats and respiratory symptoms. 

10. Manuka honey is beneficial for the skin

FACT

Manuka honey is a popular ingredient in skincare, valued for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. Its high MGO content helps fight bacteria, making it particularly effective for acne-prone skin by reducing breakouts and soothing irritation. 

Its natural humectant properties lock in moisture, making it beneficial for eczema and dry, sensitive skin. Additionally, Manuka honey supports wound healing by promoting tissue regeneration and reducing infection risk. 

Whether used as a face mask, spot treatment, or a topical treatment, its gentle yet powerful effects make it a trusted remedy for a variety of skin concerns.

11. Manuka Honey helps build immunity and maintain general wellbeing

FACT

Manuka honey is a natural immune booster, due to its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Its high MGO content helps combat harmful pathogens, while its rich antioxidants support the body’s natural defences. 

Regular consumption of Manuka honey can help strengthen the immune system, making it easier to fight off infections, colds, and flu. 

Whether taken daily by the spoonful, mixed into warm drinks, or used as a natural sweetener, Manuka honey can help support long-term health and vitality.

12. Manuka honey is just an expensive sweetener

FICTION

Unlike regular honey, Manuka honey is prized for its powerful medicinal properties, making it much more than just a natural sweetener. 

To guarantee its purity, potency, and authenticity, every batch of Biosota Manuka honey undergoes independent lab testing, ensuring it meets the highest standards. This rigorous testing verifies key compounds like MGO, DHA, and Leptosperin, so you can trust you’re getting genuine, high-quality Manuka honey with proven health benefits.

13. You shouldn’t heat Manuka honey

FACT

High temperatures can degrade the beneficial enzymes and reduce the MGO content that give Manuka honey its unique antibacterial and healing properties. Excessive heat can also impact its antioxidant and prebiotic qualities, diminishing its overall effectiveness. 

To preserve its full benefits, it’s best to consume Manuka honey raw or add it to warm—not boiling—drinks, such as tea or lemon water. This ensures that its natural compounds remain intact, allowing you to get the most out of its medicinal properties.

14. Manuka honey has an expiry date

FICTION

Like all honey, Manuka honey has a naturally long shelf life and does not spoil when stored correctly. Its low moisture content and high sugar concentration create an environment that prevents bacterial growth, keeping it safe to consume for years. 

Over time, crystallisation may occur, causing the honey to thicken or form granules, but this is a natural process and does not affect its quality, potency, or beneficial properties. If desired, crystallised honey can be gently warmed by placing the jar in lukewarm water to restore its smooth texture without compromising its valuable enzymes and MGO content. 

To maintain its freshness, store Manuka honey in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

15. Manuka honey is a natural way to support health for most

FACT

Manuka honey is a natural superfood that offers a range of benefits for many people. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Like all honey, it is not recommended for infants under 12 months due to the risk of botulism, as their digestive systems are still developing.

For those managing diabetes, Manuka honey can be enjoyed in moderation, keeping in mind that it contains natural sugars. It may be better to consume Manuka honey with a meal - especially one that’s rich in fibre, protein or healthy fats - as this can help mitigate blood sugar spikes. However, always consult a healthcare professional before adding honey to your diabetes management plan.

Despite these considerations, Manuka honey’s unique antibacterial properties and nutritional benefits make it a valuable addition to many lifestyles.

Key takeaways

More than a wellness trend, Manuka honey is backed by science for its powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. While some misconceptions exist, research shows that Manuka honey can support gut health, wound healing, skincare, and overall well-being. However, it’s essential to ensure you choose high-quality, independently tested honey like Biosota’s to guarantee purity and potency.

Whether you’re looking to soothe a sore throat, support digestion, or enhance your skincare routine, Manuka honey is a versatile and effective natural supplement. Incorporating this premium elixir into a healthy lifestyle can provide numerous benefits and by understanding the true Manuka honey facts, you can make the most of this unique and valuable honey.

Discover the right Manuka honey for you by taking our Manuka Honey Quiz. If you're based in the US or Canada, you can access our Quiz here.

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.