Medical Grade Manuka Honey
Medical grade Manuka honey is a specialized type of honey that is derived from the nectar of the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium) in New Zealand. This honey has unique properties that make it distinct from regular honey.
The most notable feature of medical-grade Manuka honey is its high concentration of a natural compound called methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO is produced in the Manuka bush and transferred to the honey during the process of honey production. The higher the concentration of MGO in the honey, the more potent its antimicrobial properties.
Medical grade Manuka honey is typically graded based on its level of MGO. The grading system ranges from 5+ to 1000+, with a higher grade indicating a higher concentration of MGO. The honey must meet certain criteria to be classified as medical grade, including being sourced from New Zealand and meeting specific standards for quality and purity.
Due to its antimicrobial properties, medical-grade Manuka honey has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health conditions. Today, it is commonly used as a topical treatment for wounds, burns, and skin infections, as well as an oral supplement to promote digestive health and boost immunity.
What is Medical Grade Manuka Honey?
Medical grade Manuka honey is a specialized type of honey that is derived from the nectar of the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium) in New Zealand. This honey has unique properties that make it distinct from regular honey.
The most notable feature of medical-grade Manuka honey is its high concentration of a natural compound called methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO is produced in the Manuka bush and transferred to the honey during the process of honey production. The higher the concentration of MGO in the honey, the more potent its antimicrobial properties.
Medical grade Manuka honey is typically graded based on its level of MGO. The grading system ranges from 5+ to 1000+, with a higher grade indicating a higher concentration of MGO. The honey must meet certain criteria to be classified as medical grade, including being sourced from New Zealand and meeting specific standards for quality and purity.
Due to its antimicrobial properties, medical-grade Manuka honey has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health conditions. Today, it is commonly used as a topical treatment for wounds, burns, and skin infections, as well as an oral supplement to promote digestive health and boost immunity.
How Does Medical Grade Manuka Honey Work?
Medical grade Manuka honey works in several ways due to its unique chemical composition. The primary active ingredient in Manuka honey is methylglyoxal (MGO), which is responsible for its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are some ways in which medical grade Manuka honey works:
- Antibacterial properties: Medical grade Manuka honey has strong antibacterial properties, which are effective against various strains of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains. The MGO in Manuka honey disrupts the bacterial cell membrane, causing the bacteria to break down and die. This property makes Manuka honey an effective topical treatment for wounds, skin, and other bacterial infections.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Medical grade Manuka honey has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This is beneficial for a range of conditions, such as arthritis, digestive issues, and skin conditions.
- Antioxidant properties: Medical-grade Manuka honey is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body against free radical damage. This is important for maintaining overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer.
- Promotes wound healing: Medical-grade Manuka honey has been shown to promote wound healing by reducing inflammation, stimulating tissue regeneration, and reducing the risk of infection. It is often used as a topical treatment for wounds, burns, and other skin injuries.
Health Benefits of Medical Grade Manuka Honey
Medical-grade Manuka honey has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for various health conditions, and modern research has shown that it has several potential health benefits. Here are some of the health benefits of medical-grade Manuka honey:
- Promotes wound healing: Medical-grade Manuka honey has been shown to promote wound healing by reducing inflammation, fighting infection, and stimulating tissue regeneration. It is effective in treating wounds, burns, and other skin injuries.
- Boosts immunity: Medical grade Manuka honey has immune-boosting properties thanks to its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to help reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu and prevent infections.
- Improves digestive health: Medical-grade Manuka honey has been shown to improve digestive health by reducing inflammation in the gut, balancing the gut microbiome, and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. It is effective in treating conditions such as acid reflux, ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Soothes sore throats: Medical grade Manuka honey has been traditionally used to soothe sore throats thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce pain and inflammation in the throat and fight infection.
- Promotes skin health: Medical-grade Manuka honey is effective in treating a range of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that help soothe and heal the skin.
How to Choose and Use Medical Grade Manuka Honey
Choosing high-quality medical-grade Manuka honey is important to ensure that you are getting the full benefits of this natural remedy. Here are some tips on how to choose and use medical-grade Manuka honey safely and effectively:
- Look for the UMF® rating: The Unique Manuka Factor (UMF®) rating is a grading system used to measure the potency and quality of Manuka honey. Look for medical-grade Manuka honey with a UMF® rating of at least 10+ to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product.
- Check the MGO content: The methylglyoxal (MGO) content is another indicator of the potency of medical-grade Manuka honey. Look for a product with an MGO content of at least 100 to ensure that it has strong antimicrobial properties.
- Check the source: Medical-grade Manuka honey should be sourced from New Zealand, where the Manuka bush grows naturally. Look for products that have been independently tested and verified to ensure their authenticity.
- Use as directed: Medical grade Manuka honey can be used topically or orally, depending on the intended use. Follow the instructions on the label carefully to ensure that you are using it safely and effectively.
- Store properly: Medical-grade Manuka honey should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It does not need to be refrigerated but should be kept in an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting in.
- Beware of potential side effects: While medical-grade Manuka honey is generally safe, some people may be allergic to honey or experience mild side effects such as upset stomach or diarrhea. If you experience any adverse reactions, stop using the honey and consult with your healthcare provider.
Cara Hayes is an experienced natural health practitioner with a Masters in Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics from the University of Sydney. She has been writing for New Zealand Honey since 2020 and loves manuka in her morning tea.
