Manuka Honey - An Immune Booster From Australia

2023 Author: Lynn Laird | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 21:10

Do you know manuka honey? It is a natural remedy from New Zealand and Australia which is becoming more and more popular in Europe. Very rich in vitamins and minerals, it is a food that strengthens the immune system. According to several scientific studies, manuka honey is effective in treating almost all health problems: from a sore throat to removing skin imperfections. Are you planning to try it? So, find out about the composition of this super food, its benefits and how to use it in this article on the subject.

What is manuka honey?

Manuka honey is a product made by bees that pollinate the Leptospermum scoparium flower, widely known as a manuka shrub. Some people also call it "tea tree" but it has nothing to do with the Camellia sinensis plant or with Melaleuca alternifolia which is used for the preparation of the most common essential oils and green, black and tea. White. This honey has a more pronounced taste and is more potent than standard bee honey. Why ? Read on to find the secret to this super food.

Why is manuka honey considered the best bee product?

All honeys contain a specific enzyme that produces the antiseptic hydrogen peroxide. But it can vary from honey to honey. This is why the Manuka honey promotion consortium created the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) in order to be able to measure these properties. According to studies, this type of honey is more concentrated in hydrogen peroxide than other honeys. Its Methylglyoxal (MGO) content makes it even more exceptional. It is a molecule that he would be the only one to have and thanks to it, Manuka honey is active on humans. So that's its unique antibacterial factor. The UMF (or IAA in France for Index of Microbial Activity) and the MGO are the indications that you must look for on the label to be sure that you are buying a real Manuka product. The higher they are, the more active ingredients they contain.

What are the benefits of manuka honey?

This honey is a natural anti-inflammatory remedy. It also offers antibacterial and antioxidant properties. Numerous studies have also shown that manuka honey can improve wound healing by maintaining a moist environment and a protective barrier that prevents microbial infections in wounds. Manuka honey is effective against multidrug resistant bacteria such as Enterococcus, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyrogenes. It amplifies tissue regeneration and even decreases pain in patients with burns. Plus, manuka honey can help heal diabetic ulcers.

Manuka honey can also help you with:

• help heal cuts and scrapes
• eliminate infections
• relieve stomach pain
• improve digestion
• strengthen the immune system
• provide energy

How to use this natural remedy?

Australian honey is ideal for daily consumption to boost your immune system and to keep you feeling fit during the cold months. In this case, you should look for a honey with a concentration of MGO that is not more than 100 mg / kg and a UMF10 + or less.

An UMF 10+ to 16+ is equivalent to 250+ mg / kg MGO. These honeys have an effect on digestion and not serious wounds.

Manuka honey that contains UMF 17+ and above has 400+ to 550+ mg / kg MGO. It is a “super strong” booster and a versatile remedy at the service of our well-being.

This bacteria killer can be applied directly to the skin as a mask to treat skin problems. It is super effective against acne because of its antibacterial properties. Externally, it is also a good treatment for skin dryness, skin fungal infections, psoriasis, eczematous manifestations and herpes labialis.

To enjoy the digestive benefits of Manuka honey, consume 1 to 2 tablespoons per day. You can eat it straight or add it to your diet. If you want to incorporate Manuka honey into your diet, consider adding it to your breakfast smoothie, coffee, or tea. Another idea is to replace standard honey in vegan spread recipes. Spread it on a slice of toast or add it to yogurt. It can help you prevent certain illnesses or relieve their symptoms.

You can treat small scrapes and cuts with Manuka honey. In this case, apply the honey to a bandage. Then place the bandage on the wound. You should not apply the honey directly to the wound.

Does manuka honey have any contraindications?

For most people, Manuka honey can be consumed without any health risk. Generally, there is no limit to the amount of Manuka honey you can consume or use as it has no contraindications. But if you are diabetic, you should consult your doctor before adding honey to your diet because it has a high sugar content. People who are allergic to other types of honey or to bees may have an allergic reaction after ingesting or applying manuka honey. So be careful! Also bear in mind that honeys are not recommended for babies. Nowadays, food allergies are becoming more and more frequent. It is therefore necessary to consume in moderation products containing allergens.