Manuka honey and its properties, contraindications, and grades

There are different varieties of honey, and all are made by bees collecting pollen. Some have medicinal properties for digestion, others to boost defenses, and Manuka honey, in addition to these benefits, is antibacterial. It is produced by the collection of nectar from *Leptospermum scoparium* in New Zealand.

It is very good for its sweet taste, with wildflower flavors, and helps to cure fungal and bacterial infections, eczema on the skin, and treats some acne-related problems. This honey is very complete in its properties as it also promotes the regeneration of damaged dermal tissues.

Properties of Manuka Honey

Its therapeutic action is antibacterial due to the natural hydrogen peroxide it contains.

When bees collect pollen from the flowers of *Leptospermum scoparium*, they include the enzyme glucose oxidase. This, when it comes into contact with the skin, is released and converts hydrogen peroxide into an element that kills bacteria. At a sufficient level to eliminate infections but without damaging the skin. These benefits of Manuka honey were indicated by Dr. Peter Molan of the University of Waikato in New Zealand.

The downside as an antibacterial remedy is that hydrogen peroxide disappears with the sun, light, and heat, so you must store these honeys in dark, cool places to keep all their properties intact. However, thanks to the wrapping provided by the bees’ nectar in this sticky liquid, it is stable and difficult to spoil.

Its healing properties are also well known. Applied directly to the skin, it improves wound healing and scar removal.

When consumed, it is good for throat irritation, difficulty swallowing, and roughness caused by dry cough. It is indicated for gingivitis.

It also improves digestion and relieves some ulcer symptoms. In general, Manuka honey is very good for stomach problems.

Antibacterial properties

These are clinically proven, and the Honey Research Unit at the University of Waikato is responsible for the analysis.

Grades of Manuka Honey

There is a numerical pattern that indicates antibacterial potency and for medicinal uses. The scale is called Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). This measures the ability to dehydrate bacteria with the honey’s acid.

The purity grades of Manuka Honey are:

• UMF 0 no medicinal value.
• UMF 5 contains therapeutic properties but is not suitable for medical use.
• UMF 10 improves skin conditions and boosts the immune system.
• UMF 15 medical use due to its antibacterial action.
• UMF 20 indicated for certain treatments. The twenty factor is the highest in the Unique Manuka scale.

In addition to hydrogen peroxide, it contains methylglyoxal or MG. This is a molecule common in honey in small proportions. In Manuka honey, there is a higher amount. MG acts by damaging bacteria. Its concentration is also measured by the UMF value.

Contraindications

Do not use in children. Due to its potent effects, it should be avoided in young children when using the honey directly.

In cosmetic products such as creams containing a small proportion, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you are diabetic, you should monitor its consumption due to the glucose and fructose content. In general, honey consumption is contraindicated for diabetes.

Other people can use this product in moderation without risks.

Manuka Honey and Helicobacter Pylori

If you want to cure a bacterial infection or a skin ulcer, you need to prepare a poultice with it. You can use a gauze and apply it to the area. You should change it several times a day for it to have a potent effect and be effective.

Manuka Honey is good for digestive discomfort and stomach ulcers caused by the *Helicobacter Pylori* bacteria. To benefit from it, you need to consume it just like any other honey. Once it reaches the stomach, it is diluted and absorbed, spreading its active ingredients throughout the body. This treatment has been clinically tested, and Manuka honey for eliminating Helicobacter Pylori is effective. This bacteria is responsible for a large number of stomach and duodenal ulcers.

It is a remedy for groups of staphylococci, including the aureus strain, which is resistant to the antibiotic methicillin but not to the antibacterial action of this honey.

It improves the digestive system, hiatal hernia, heartburn, etc.

How are the flowers of Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka) like?

This species is endemic to the island of New Zealand, Australia, and Tasmania. It grows throughout the region, especially near dry coastal areas. This gives it properties different from other flowers. The lack of water results in a higher concentration of active principles.

Manuka is a small evergreen tree with short green leaves and thorns. The flowers are of varied colors, ranging from white to pink. It is a very beautiful plant that, when in full bloom, creates spectacular landscapes.

Traditional medicine still uses it as a tonic to treat skin conditions and revitalize the human body.

Antioxidants in Honey

Manuka honey is recognized for containing flavonoids, organic acids, and enzymes. Flavonoids are natural antioxidants that improve the longevity of skin cells, prevent premature aging, and protect against free radicals, which are an inexhaustible source of cellular destruction.

Price

Due to its pesticide-free nature and its protected designation of origin, it is a highly sought-after product today, both by hospitals and clinics that perform dermatological treatments and by people who want to take advantage of its therapeutic action at home.

The areas where the Manuka tree grows are protected and controlled, so access is restricted, and honey collection is quota-based. This makes it more expensive than other types of honey. A 250g jar of Manuka honey costs around $18, although those that are purer and more beneficial for health can reach $40. You can buy manuka honey in jars of 250ml, 500, or even 1kg. But since you will use it for its therapeutic action, the small jar will be enough.