The Healing Power of Manuka Honey

Remember My Big Fat Greek Wedding? A classic. Do you remember how the dad would squirt windex on everything from “psoriasis to poison ivy?” It was their panacea.

Okay, to be clear: WE DO NOT RECOMMEND USING WINDEX ON ANYTHING! INCLUDING YOUR WINDOWS BECAUSE THERE ARE MUCH BETTER NATURAL ALTERNATIVES! But we do have a panacea of our own: Manuka honey! Medical grade Manuka Honey is a go-to in our household from cuts, burns, sore throats, spider bites, and on and on. It really works for pretty much everything. 

Manuka honey comes from the nectar of the Manuka tree, which is native to New Zealand and parts of Australia. The honey is produced when bees pollinate the small, white or pink flowers of the Manuka tree. Manuka honey contains unique compounds not found in other honeys that make it particularly effective for medicinal purposes. We know it's a superfood, and not just because of the research behind it. We’ve seen firsthand how it speeds up healing and keeps our household running smoothly through all kinds of mishaps.

The secret ingredient that sets Manuka honey apart from other honeys is an active compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which is present in high concentrations. MGO is known for its antibacterial properties and the higher the MGO content, the stronger the antimicrobial effect. Manuka honey is also rich in antioxidants, making it an excellent natural remedy for both internal and external ailments.

Scientific Research Supporting Manuka Honey’s Healing Powers

1. Wound Healing

Studies have highlighted the manuka honey's efficacy in promoting wound healing by reducing inflammation, preventing infections, and facilitating tissue regeneration. This has made Manuka honey a valuable natural remedy for wound care, even being FDA-approved for certain medical applications in the United States.

Yupanqui Mieles J, Vyas C, Aslan E, Humphreys G, Diver C, Bartolo P. Honey: An Advanced Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Biomaterial for Tissue Engineering Applications. Pharmaceutics. 2022; 14(8):1663. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics14081663

2. Antibacterial Properties

Numerous studies have shown that Manuka honey can inhibit the growth of a variety of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains like Staphylococcus aureus. In a 2018 study published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology, researchers found that Manuka honey was effective at killing bacteria by disrupting bacterial cell walls and preventing biofilm formation. This makes it a promising alternative in the fight against antibiotic resistance. 

Liu MY, Cokcetin NN, Lu J, Turnbull L, Carter DA, Whitchurch CB and Harry EJ (2018) Rifampicin-Manuka Honey Combinations Are Superior to Other Antibiotic-Manuka Honey Combinations in Eradicating Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms. Front. Microbiol. 8:2653. doi: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02653

3. Digestive Health

Manuka honey has also been explored for its role in promoting digestive health. Research suggests that it may help treat Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a type of bacteria that causes stomach ulcers. A 2016 study found that Manuka honey had a significant antibacterial effect against H. pylori, potentially offering a natural treatment option for gastric ulcers and related conditions .

al Somal, N., Coley, K. E., Molan, P. C., & Hancock, B. M. (1994). Susceptibility of Helicobacter pylori to the antibacterial activity of manuka honey. Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, 87(1), 9–12. https://doi.org/10.1177/014107689408700106

4. Oral Health

Due to its antibacterial properties, Manuka honey can help improve oral health by reducing plaque formation and fighting gum disease. In a study, participants who chewed or sucked on Manuka honey products experienced reduced plaque and bleeding in their gums. The results indicated a reduction in plaque accumulation and gingival bleeding, suggesting that Manuka honey could be effective in managing gingivitis and periodontal disease.

English, H. K., Pack, A. R., & Molan, P. C. (2004). The effects of manuka honey on plaque and gingivitis: a pilot study. Journal of the International Academy of Periodontology, 6(2), 63–67.

How to Use Manuka Honey

Not all Manuka honey is created equal. To ensure you’re getting the most potent honey, look for the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) or MGO rating on the label. The UMF measures the levels of beneficial compounds like MGO, DHA, and leptosperin. A higher rating (10+ or above) indicates a stronger therapeutic effect.

You can use Manuka honey topically or internally. Topically, you can use it in the same way you would use bacitracin or any other wound or skin cream. Internally you can eat it like you would a normal scoop of honey, or add it to tea or a smoothie. Here is an easy to follow guide: 

• Topical Use: Apply a thin layer directly to the skin for conditions like minor wounds, burns, acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Cover with a bandage if needed, especially for wounds.

• Sore Throats: Take a spoonful directly or mix it into warm water or tea to soothe the throat.

• Digestive Health: Consume a spoonful to help with stomach discomfort or indigestion.

• Skin Care: Use it as a face mask for hydration and acne control. Simply spread it on your skin, and then leave it on for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing.

Safety and Considerations When Using Manuka Honey

While Manuka honey is generally safe for most people, it’s important to note a few precautions. It’s not suitable for infants under one year old. Additionally, if you’re allergic to bees or honey, consult a healthcare professional before using it. If you’re considering using Manuka honey for treating a specific condition, particularly chronic conditions like ulcers or infections, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor first.

Healing With Honey

It is a marvel that one flower in New Zealand can make such a difference, and seeing all of the studies to support its healing properties really makes you appreciate the natural world. We absolutely love Manuka honey, and are sure you will too. After all, a spoonful of honey sure beats a spray of Windex when you have a paper cut or a sore throat!

(Note: this blog is for educational purposes only, and is not meant to treat or diagnose any condition or illness. Always consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes.)