How to Choose the Best Manuka Honey
Not all Manuka honey is created equal. Learn how to choose the best Manuka honey for maximum health benefits.
1/1/20252 min read
Discover the Benefits of Manuka Honey. Manuka honey is a natural superfood with numerous health benefits. From boosting your immune system to promoting digestion and wound healing, this unique honey is a must-have in your pantry. Learn more about the origin, production, and uses of Manuka honey in our latest blog post.
Understanding the Unique Qualities of Manuka Honey
What sets Manuka honey apart is its origin – it's produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush, native to New Zealand. This honey is renowned for its higher concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound with potent antibacterial properties. This makes it not just a sweetener, but a powerful health booster.
Grading System: UMF and MGO
To choose the best Manuka honey, understanding its grading system is crucial. Two main ratings are commonly used: the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) and MGO. UMF measures the purity and quality of the honey, taking into account its natural markers like leptospira, DHA, and methylglyoxal. Look for a UMF rating of 10 or higher for therapeutic benefits. MGO, on the other hand, specifically measures the methylglyoxal content. Higher MGO numbers indicate stronger antibacterial properties.
Tips for Selecting High-Quality Manuka Honey
Check the Label: Look for UMF or MGO ratings on the jar. Authentic Manuka honey will have a UMF license number or an MGO rating.
Origin Matters: Ensure it’s sourced from New Zealand, as true Manuka honey comes exclusively from this region.
Consider the Price: Manuka honey is a premium product. Be wary of brands that offer significantly lower prices as it may indicate lower quality.
Taste and Texture: High-quality Manuka honey has a creamy, thick texture and a distinctly earthy, slightly bitter flavor, unlike regular honey.
Incorporating Manuka Honey into Your Diet
This honey isn’t just for sweetening your tea. Its unique flavor and health properties make it a versatile addition to your diet. Try it as a spread on toast, a natural sweetener in smoothies, or even as a skin-soothing face mask. Remember, to retain its benefits, avoid exposing it to high temperatures.
The Therapeutic Uses of Manuka Honey
Beyond dietary uses, Manuka honey has been used in clinical settings for wound healing, especially in cases where wounds are difficult to heal due to infections or other complications. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in reducing wound infection and promoting healing.
Manuka honey is more than just a sweetener – it’s a natural remedy with a range of health benefits. By choosing the right grade and ensuring its authenticity, you can incorporate this superfood into your daily routine and enjoy its unique advantages.
