Honey is a well-known ingredient in the health and beauty world for its beneficial effects when consumed or applied topically, and it’s used universally for its healing effects. But what makes manuka honey special?
Manuka honey is from New Zealand, and “produced by bees who pollinate the flower Leptospermum scoparium, commonly known as the manuka bush.” Unlike regular honey, manuka honey boasts antibacterial properties along with its antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Let’s get into its incredible benefits…
1. As an acne treatment
The first benefit comes in a topical formulation that is often marketed with a low PH product which has acne-fighting properties. The antimicrobial properties of manuka honey make it a desirable ingredient to fight acne-causing bacteria along with decreasing inflammation. Manuka honey in skincare is great for soothing and hydrating skin and promoting a healthy glow, as well.
2. As a treatment for upper respiratory infections
Manuka honey has been shown to fight bacteria that cause upper respiratory infections, especially for those who suffer from cystic fibrosis.
3. As an aid for improved digestive health
Symptoms related to digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements can be helped by intaking manuka honey. “Manuka honey has been proven to improve antioxidant status and reduce inflammation in rats with both IBS and ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease“ (Source)
Medicinal Strength Manuka With Antibacterial Activity
“Medicinal strength honey is produced from Leptospermum plants found growing in Australia. The honey from these plants has unique healing properties not found in other honeys.”
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Multifloral Raw Mānuka Honey
“All of our raw Mānuka honey products are produced in our HACCP certified honey facility in New Zealand. We operate an industry-leading traceability system which allows you to trace your product from hive to hand.“
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Vitamin C with Manuka Honey Immunity Support Chewable Tablets
“Made with New Zealand harvested Manuka honey, lemon and Acerola Cherry extract, each chewable tablet is naturally rich in antioxidants with immune supporting benefits.”
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4. As a soothing ingredient for sore throats and coughs
Coughs and mucus buildup are the absolute worst during cold/flu season. Manuka honey has properties that attack a type of bacteria know as Streptococcus mutans, which causes sore throats, and oral bacteria that cause mucus. Manuka honey also helps with suppressing coughs and coats the inner lining of the throat for a soothing effect.
**Side note: When I do get sick with a cough, they are always the WORST and last forever. Years ago I was recommended by my vocal coach to take honey cough drops instead of menthol cough drops (such as Ricola) because the soothing and anti-inflammatory effects of honey are way more effective than menthol, which can further aggravate a dry throat. Honey cough drops won’t give you that cooling sensation, but they will soothe your throat, suppress your cough, and better protect your voice. These are my favorites and I swear by them.
Organic Manuka Honey Drops
“Soothe throats with this time-tested recipe still crafted with care in small batches. Perfect for cold, flu and allergy season. Each box contains approximately 20 drops.”
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Manuka Honey Lozenges with Lemon
“Made with our high grade MGO 400+ Manuka Honey, certified for natural methylglyoxal content.”
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5. To promote oral health
Honey is sweet, and sweet things cause tooth decay and cavities right? Well, not manuka honey! There have been studies that show manuka honey attacks the harmful oral bacteria associated with tooth decay, gum inflammation, and plaque buildup. There was even a study conducted that showed chewing or sucking on manuka honey chews significantly reduced plague and gingival bleeding compared to sugar-free gum.
Organic Manuka Honey Pops
“Enjoy a variety of 24 delicious, Manuka honey lollipops. Each pack comes with Raspberry, Orange, and Grape flavored lollipops. All lollipops are USDA certified organic containing no artificial flavors or colors.”
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6. To heal wounds
Another benefit of applying manuka honey topically is its ability to treat wounds such as burns, ulcers, sores, and boils. “In 2007, manuka honey was approved by the US FDA as an option for wound treatment.“ (Source) Multiple studies have shown that manuka honey aids in tissue regeneration and alleviating pain. Additionally, the use of topical manuka honey in conjunction with conventional treatment is more effective than just conventional treatment alone. Manuka honey can also assist with scarring by reducing stiffness and pain.
Tea Tree & Manuka Honey Balm
“Healthy looking skin starts with two powerful ingredients: Tea Tree Oil and Manuka Honey. Tea Tree Oil is a natural cleanser, while Manuka Honey provides a moist, low pH environment to keep skin in a good condition.“
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Medihoney Gel Wound and & Burn Dressing
“These unique dressings contain Active Leptospermum Honey, a unique honey from New Zealand that has beneficial plant-derived properties. The dressings can be used in all phases of wound healing and could be considered a key dressing in any wound bed preparation protocol.”
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Manuka Honey Healing Cream
“Honey naturally seals in moisture to heal and protect dry, damaged skin. Manuka Honey has unmatched healing properties, and is the most active honey on earth — found only in New Zealand, made from bees that pollinate the manuka tree.”
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Advanced Clinicals Manuka Honey Cream
“Advanced Clinicals Manuka Honey for Extremely Dry, Aging Skin Creams 3-in-1 formula involves moisturizing, restoring and nourishing skin that is extremely dry, or if you have discolored skin, age spots, freckles, damage from sun spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars.“
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Ready to incorporate Manuka honey into your health routine? Let us know if you found this post helpful — we’d love to see your results!
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