Manuka Honey: Medicinal Uses and Benefits

  • by: Kelly Tate
  • March 10, 2023
  • Advice
Manuka Honey: Medicinal Uses and Benefits

Manuka Honey is a type of honey that is produced by bees that collect nectar from the flowers of the Manuka tree, which is native to New Zealand and some parts of Australia. This type of honey is known for its unique properties and has been used for its medicinal benefits for centuries.

This variety of honey, apparently, has a higher concentration of certain compounds, such as methylglyoxal, which makes it more beneficial than other types of honey. Not that these benefits were previously unknown, it is just that the awareness regarding this was low. Now that people have started incorporating more organic items into their lifestyles, the popularity of Manuka honey seems to be on the rise.

In fact, some people have even started beekeeping as a hobby. This not only enables them to get the purest form of honey, but also lets them connect with nature. Besides, it only requires a few tools such as a honey extractor, bee frames, and bee smokers, to name a few. It is also relatively low maintenance, as bee hives only require occasional inspections and honey harvesting.

Seeing its popularity, it may be worth learning some of the benefits of Manuka honey.

Antibacterial Properties

One of the most recognized and significant manuka honey benefits is its antibacterial properties. The honey contains an enzyme called glucose oxidase, which produces hydrogen peroxide when it comes into contact with moisture. This helps to kill bacteria and prevent infections. Manuka honey also contains a unique compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which is responsible for its strong antibacterial activity. MGO is found in high concentrations in Manuka honey and has been shown to be effective against a range of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains.

Wound Healing

The antibacterial properties of Manuka honey make it an excellent choice for wound healing. Studies have shown that honey can help to reduce inflammation and promote the growth of new tissue, which can help wounds to heal more quickly. In addition, the honey creates a protective barrier over the wound, which helps to prevent infection and keep the wound moist. This can be particularly useful for people with chronic wounds or those who are at risk of infection.

Sore Throat and Cough

Manuka honey has also been shown to be effective in treating sore throats and coughs. The honey can help to soothe the throat and reduce inflammation, which can help to alleviate symptoms. In addition, the antibacterial properties of the honey can help to kill the bacteria that cause infections, which can help to prevent further complications.

Digestive Health

Manuka honey may also be beneficial for digestive health. The honey contains a prebiotic called oligosaccharides, which can help to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. In addition, the antibacterial properties of the honey can help to kill harmful bacteria in the gut, which can help to prevent infections and promote overall digestive health.

Skin Care

Manuka honey is also believed to be beneficial for skin care. The honey can help to hydrate and nourish the skin, which can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Naturally, a more permanent and quick way of fighting signs of aging would include getting dermal fillers in Cary, NC, or other such treatments in the vicinity, but using this honey from a younger age may be able to slow down the process of aging. In addition, the antibacterial properties of the honey can help to prevent acne and other skin infections.

Conclusion

Manuka honey is a unique and valuable natural remedy that has been used for its medicinal benefits for centuries. Its antibacterial properties make it an effective treatment for a range of conditions, including wound healing, sore throat, cough, digestive health, and skin care. If you are considering using Manuka honey for medicinal purposes, it is important to choose a high-quality product with a high concentration of MGO.

Kelly Tate
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