Manuka honey consumption is growing significantly, with a 19% year-on-year increase according to Business Insider. It is the only honey in the world that is routinely tested in a lab before sale to verify its purity, strength, and composition. But what makes this honey so special? And is it truly effective in supporting your immune system? This article explores the key benefits of New Zealand Manuka honey, with a particular focus on immune system support and the science behind its reputation as a natural remedy.
What is Manuka Honey and What Are Its Benefits?
Manuka honey is a premium type of honey produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium), a native plant found predominantly in New Zealand. This honey is widely recognised for its unique antibacterial properties, setting it apart from standard honeys that rely primarily on hydrogen peroxide for their antimicrobial effects.
The distinguishing compound in genuine Manuka honey is methylglyoxal (MGO). Unlike other honeys, which lose potency when exposed to heat and light, Manuka honey retains its antibacterial strength thanks to high levels of MGO. This contributes to its effectiveness in wound healing, immune support, and oral health.
Immune System Support
Regular consumption of high-grade Manuka honey may help support the immune system, especially during seasonal changes or periods of stress when the body is more vulnerable to illness. This is due to its:
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Antimicrobial action, which helps fight off harmful bacteria and viruses
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Natural soothing effect for sore throats and coughs
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Antioxidant content that combats oxidative stress, which can impact immune function
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Support for gut health, which is closely tied to immune regulation
Adding a spoonful of Manuka honey to your daily routine can offer general wellness support. This is particularly useful during colder months when colds and flu are more prevalent.
Genuine Manuka Honey: What to Look For
Not all Manuka honey is created equal. To ensure you're getting genuine Manuka honey, always check the label for:
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MGO rating: The higher the number, the stronger the antibacterial activity. MGO ratings can range from 40+ to over 1000+.
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Different grades such as MGO 100+, 525+, or 850+, which correspond to various potency levels suitable for different needs.
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Certification of origin, confirming it was produced and packed in New Zealand
Manuka Lab offers high-quality Manuka honey products that are sourced, tested, and certified in New Zealand, ensuring you receive authentic honey with reliable health benefits.
Antibacterial Properties
Manuka honey’s antibacterial properties are significantly more potent than those of conventional honey. This is attributed to its naturally high levels of methylglyoxal, which can actively combat harmful bacteria. Research has shown that the antibacterial effect becomes stronger as the MGO rating increases, meaning that a higher-rated honey provides enhanced microbial resistance.
This makes it particularly useful in supporting:
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Healing of cuts, burns, and abrasions
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The treatment of sore throats and respiratory discomfort
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Prevention of secondary bacterial infections during colds or flu
Its effectiveness has also been noted in clinical environments, where it is used in dressings for wound care due to its sterile, non-irritating, and antimicrobial nature.
How Manuka Honey Can Be Used to Heal the Body
Manuka honey has long been used as a natural remedy in both traditional and modern health settings. It is particularly popular for:
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Wound healing: Applying medical-grade Manuka honey to wounds helps reduce infection, support tissue regeneration, and maintain a moist healing environment.
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Digestive health: It is traditionally used to ease symptoms of indigestion and stomach ulcers. Its anti-inflammatory action can also help alleviate discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
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Skin health: With antioxidant and hydrating properties, it can be used topically to improve skin texture, reduce inflammation, and aid moisture retention.
The honey is available in various forms including creams, ointments, capsules, and syrups. However, many prefer to consume it the traditional way: by the spoonful, either on its own or stirred into warm drinks.
How Does Manuka Honey Compare to Other Types of Honey?
While all honeys possess some level of antibacterial and antioxidant activity, New Zealand Manuka honey is in a league of its own due to its high methylglyoxal content. Regular honey relies mostly on hydrogen peroxide for its antibacterial action, which is far less stable and effective compared to MGO.
Manuka honey is typically darker, thicker, and has a richer, more complex taste. These sensory attributes reflect the high concentration of bioactive compounds. Additionally, it is the only honey variety whose health claims are supported by stringent testing and scientific research.
Manuka’s effectiveness extends beyond digestion and immunity, it is commonly used to address sore throats, aid cough relief, and improve skin conditions thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Choosing the Best Manuka Honey for the Immune System
When selecting a product, opt for a Manuka honey with a high MGO rating if you intend to use it for immune support or therapeutic purposes. Ratings such as MGO 525+ or MGO 850+ offer potent antibacterial effects, making them ideal for those looking to integrate Manuka honey into their daily routine for overall health and protection against seasonal illnesses.
Be cautious of misleading labels. Only Manuka honey that has been tested and certified in New Zealand can be trusted to provide the advertised health benefits. Look for certifications from recognised organisations and clearly stated MGO levels to ensure you are purchasing genuine Manuka honey.
Where to Buy High-Quality Manuka Honey
For the most reliable source of Manuka honey products, we recommend shopping directly from trusted producers. Manuka Lab offers premium Manuka honey harvested and packed in New Zealand, with full traceability and certification. Our range includes various grades to suit different health goals, whether you're looking for everyday wellness or targeted immune support.
Our honey is sustainably harvested, independently tested for purity, and clearly labelled with MGO levels. When you buy from Manuka Lab, you can be confident in the quality, potency, and authenticity of the product.
If you're looking to strengthen your immune system naturally, incorporating a spoonful of New Zealand Manuka honey into your routine could make a valuable difference. Its combination of antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects makes it one of nature’s most powerful allies for health and wellbeing.
