Manuka Honey: What is it? Properties and benefits

Manuka honey is a type of dark floral honey derived from the extract of a shrub originating in New Zealand.
It can also be an effective agent in combating a variety of infectious organisms , such as fungi or bacteria, and it also has healing and antiseptic properties.

Benefits and properties of manuka honey

Manuka honey possesses scientifically backed anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antioxidant benefits . These include: its support in treating skin conditions; and its use as an effective complementary treatment for various ailments.

• Acne
• Burns
• Abscesses
• Boils
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Insect bites
• Cracked nipples
• Bedsores or pressure ulcers.

It promotes wound healing. Because it contains a high amount of methylglyoxal and phenolic compounds , research shows that manuka honey acts as a natural antibiotic. At the same time, it acts as a stimulant that helps heal tissues and reduce microbial infections. Its antibacterial properties are also well-known for healing wounds . Therefore, it can be applied directly to areas infected by bacteria, such as:

• E. coli.
• Salmonella.
• Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
• Streptococci.
• Staphylococcus aureus.
• Helicobacter pylori.
• Shigella.

It can also help heal diabetic ulcers, according to a study conducted in Saudi Arabia. This study indicated that combining manuka honey with conventional treatment could heal these wounds more effectively than using the conventional method alone. It promotes oral health. To maintain healthy gums and prevent cavities , it is vital to reduce harmful bacteria, which can be produced by plaque buildup.

In this regard, studies indicate that Manuka honey attacks harmful microbes associated with plaque formation, gum inflammation, and tooth decay, such as A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis.

On the other hand, Manuka honey contains powerful antibacterial effects. This means it is unlikely to cause cavities, unlike traditional honey, refined sugar, and sweets. It soothes sore throats. The properties of Manuka honey can reduce inflammation , target bacteria that cause pain, and act as an analgesic. An analysis conducted on patients undergoing treatments for head and neck cancer yielded an important finding: after consuming Manuka honey, the patients experienced a significant reduction in Streptococcus mutans, a bacterium that causes sore throats. Other uses of Manuka honey As we mentioned earlier, its rich antioxidant and antibacterial properties increase its usefulness. Therefore, it is popular as an ingredient for:

• Improve the digestive process.
• Prevent eye and ear infections.
• Cleanse and exfoliate the pores of the face.
• Fight diseases.

Finally, it's best to use manuka honey in its natural form. But it can also be used in facial creams, throat lozenges, or oral sprays.

However, it is always advisable to consult a specialist before applying it.