Best Manuka Honey – How To Pick The Right Manuka Honey
The leaves produced by the Manuka plant were exploited by the Maori people to reduce fever symptoms. They could also be crushed, and the produced oil used on wounds to serve as a natural antiseptic.
Back in the 19th century, honey was discovered to be comprised of natural antibacterial elements. Since then, it has developed to become a well embraced and promoted honey brand.
However, it has attained even more popularity after the discovery of its ability to improve immunity, skin conditions & vitality, heal wounds, and also stomach ulcers.
The Manuka Bush also referred to as the tea tree, is pollinated by bees, standing out as a lead honey producer in New Zealand.
The Manuka Bush also serves as a supplier of tea-tree oil, an oil famous for its anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal characteristics. The Maoris native name of the Honey is Manuka, while the Honey is scientifically known as Leptospermum scoparuim.
Here, all the questions you may be having about Manuka Honey are answered for you! We are mainly going to cover on:-
• Benefits of Manuka Honey
• How to check the Quality of Manuka Honey
• The Meaning of the Unique Manuka Factor- UMF
• Where to purchase Manuka Honey
• 5 Best Manuka Honey Brands
• Precautions and Safety Measures for using Manuka Honey
What Are the Benefits of Manuka Honey?
Manuka Honey stands out as it is one of the most beneficial and unique types of honey in the globe. This is due to its exemplary nutritional profile as it is a rich source of:-
Magnesium
Calcium
Amino acids
Zinc
Iron
Sodium
Manganese
Potassium
Copper
Phosphorus
B vitamins
The following are the top uses of Manuka Honey:
a) Wounds, Burns and Ulcers
Due to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-oxidant features, it prevents cases of infection in people suffering from venous ulcers. It is also used to dress wounds as well as increase the rate of healing.
b) Sore Throats and Immunity
Research has shown that Manuka retains the ability to halt the growth of bacteria that cause a sore throat. This is the reason as to why a patient suffering from a sore throat receives immediate healing after taking in a spoonful of honey.
It has also been commended by the National Cancer Institute to cure throat inflammation of chemotherapy.
c) Eczema and Acne
A significant number of people on the internet have testified on the good results they have received from the use of this honey on their skin.
Most people apply it on the affected areas for a short while, then washing it off using a gentle soap. Once this is carried out over a period, wait for exemplary results.
d) IBD and IBS
Examiners from Chandigarh Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research have proven that Manuka Honey repairs the radical intestinal damage. It also protects against further damage and heals intestinal pain and inflammation.
e) Health Booster and Beauty Treatment
Manuka Honey boosts youthful energy, vitality, and is only known to improve skin texture as well as skin tone. It is recommended to exfoliate the skin when used as a face wash.
One of the very best uses is to take it in as it functions as a detox drink which benefits the body, both internally and externally!
f) Gingivitis and Tooth Decay
Studies have been carried out revealing that Manuka Honey cures periodontal disease and gingivitis. When a gingivitis patient chews or sucks on a product extracted from Manuka honey, it reduces the plaque, thus reducing bleeding!
g) Staph Infections (MRSA)
United Kingdom researchers of Cardiff Metropolitan University have recently discovered that Manuka Honey regulates the majority of the MRSA bacteria. Scientists have therefore recommended the use of this Honey on infections and cuts as it eliminates MRSA.
h) Sinusitis and Allergies
All over the internet, groups of people are receiving relief from allergies after consuming honey and birch pollen, and the results are remarkable. Consuming Manuka Honey on a daily basis assists to reduce seasonal allergies, thus, lessening the need for medications.
I) SIBO, Acid Reflux, Low Stomach Acid
The natural antibiotics that are found in Manuka Honey serve as a great cure for low stomach acid, SIBO, and acid reflux.
Clostridium difficult, bacteria that is related to the above diseases, has been termed vulnerable to the bactericidal effects of Manuka Honey. Therefore, the honey balances the digestive system so as to heal stomach as well as intestinal imbalances.
J) Improves sleep
The Manuka Honey facilitates deep sleep as it eases the release of glycogen which is essential for sound sleep. You should consider mixing some honey to milk before retiring to bed. You will be assured of a proper night rest after the body releases melatonin to the brain.
How Can I Check the Quality of Manuka Honey?
Well, we do not want you purchasing a product that is right! Therefore, we are providing several factors that will assist you in identifying whether you are buying the right and desired product. Legitimate UMF Manuka Honey should match the criteria below:
o It is produced by a New Zealand company which is licensed to exploit the UMF trademark.
o It is properly packed in jars and branded in New Zealand.
o It contains a rating number beside the UMF trademark.
o The front label is comprised of the quality trademark UMF.
o It is approved by the Official Release Document of UMF which affirms the assessment results for the batch number displayed on the label of the jar.
o Right beside the trademark UMF lies the rating number. The presence of the rating number alone does not approve its genuineness.
What is the Unique Manuka Factor – UMF?
UMF is the abbreviation for Unique Manuka Factor.
It is a high standard brand name and system for grading which identifies unadulterated Manuka Honey. It contains a special property that is only found in several varieties of Manuka Honey.
This grading system assures quality and purity of the product. It also evaluates the natural marketers that are within Manuka Honey. It serves to protect the customer rights as not all types of Manuka Honey retain the unique property, thus varying in strength.
The quality UMF trademark is only for licensed users who are members of a company in New Zealand and meet the criteria laid down.
Where can I Buy Manuka Honey?
You will find Manuka honey at a variety of places. This could be at big department and grocery stores in your city, or even at a specialty store in your area.
However, you can as well utilize online websites that facilitate the purchase of health care products. Before making any purchases, ensure to confirm the MGO or UMF rating.
In case you require the Manuka Honey for medicinal purposes, you do not want to spend your time and money on a fake brand. Be cautious!
5 Best Manuka Honey Brands
Purchasing the best Manuka Honey is what we all desire as it is quite pricey as compared to other types of honey. That is why we are here to direct you on the top 5 Manuka brands which have surpassed 12 in the UMF ratings. They are:
I. Manuka Honey
Characteristics:
• 100% Pure Manuka Honey from New Zealand.
• Perceptible from beehive to the shelf.
• 250 gram/8.8 ounce bottle.
• MGO 400+/ UMF 12+.
It is packed in a dark plastic jar with a blue lid, while the label is golden, white, and blue. It is essential for supporting a healthy diet, as it is a certified Manuka Honey product. It is extracted from the magnificent flowers of Manuka Bush.
You can consume it directly or apply it on bread and any other relevant snack. It can also serve as an ingredient in the manufacture of body washes, soaps, and lotions.
Its storage specifications are minimal as it does not require any refrigeration. Store it in a dry and dark place to ensure that it retains its freshness and nutrient value. Last but not least, it fastens the healing of sores, boils, and also fatal skin infections.
II. Bee’s Inn Manuka Honey
Characteristics:
• A New Zealand product.
• Fully registered and licensed member of UMFHA.
• Pure and Natural Honey.
• 15+ UMF rating.
• 250 gram/8.8 ounce bottle.
This product is well sealed in a black container, made of plastic. The graphics on the jar are pink and gold in color, with a white lid. The Bee’s Inn Manuka Honey has been tested, certified, and licensed for its high quality.
It is recommended to treat ulcers, and also soothe digestive upsets. It is also known for improving immunity illnesses such as flu bugs and colds. The honey is a good agent for calming throat infections, and can also be used as a salve on burns and cuts, among others.
It is fascinating how the 250-gram jar of honey can take you through an entire month with constant usage.
III. Kiva Manuka Raw Honey
Characteristics:
• Pure 15+ Manuka Honey.
• Autonomously verified and tested.
• Obtained from a variety of regions in New Zealand.
• 250 gram/ 8.8 ounce bottle.
• Excellent treatment for wounds, strep sore throats, and colds.
It comes in a black container with a black lid, and the graphics on it are solely in a golden color. Its original sources are from the forests, the coastal areas and the pristine hills of New Zealand.
The Kiva honey is popular for its healing agents as it also treats digestive disorders. It boosts the energy levels in human beings and enhances overall health.
IV. Wild Cape Manuka Honey
Characteristics:
• Member of the UMF Association
• UMF 15+.
• Contains a mild flavor.
• Mainly from North Island, East Cape, and New Zealand.
• 250 gram/ 8.8 ounce bottle.
The wild cape is enclosed in a dark bottle which is sealed by a white cap and has a multi-colored graphics on its label. It is the sweetest and mildest of all the types of Manuka Honey.
Once the honey is extracted from the wax combs, the combs remain in position so as to allow the bees to use them again and again.
V. Comvita Manuka Honey
Characteristics:
• Offers exclusive health benefits.
• Strengthens the respiratory and digestive system.
• Supplied from a forest in New Zealand, free from pollution
• 15+ UMF rating.
• 250 gram/8.8 ounce bottle.
The Comvita honey is delivered in a black bottle, sealed with a white cap. The graphics on the label are a combination of red and black.
The Comvita Association was initiated in New Zealand, in the year 1974. It has retained its position as one of the leading honey production companies.
This honey plays a huge role in supporting the respiratory system, as well as the digestive system. It is also known for its ability to assist patients experiencing coughs and colds. It also relieves sore throats.
Precautions & Safety Measures for Using Manuka Honey
It is important to note that as much as Manuka Honey is recommended to cure various ailments, it may not be appropriate to treat severe conditions. Therefore, carefully analyze the precautions below for more clarity.
1. Visit a medical center in case the condition of your skin infection is deteriorating.
2. It is important to see a doctor on severe wounds. The honey should not be applied on bleeding wounds.
3. Since the honey has not been proven fit for patients who have diabetes, it is better avoided by such individuals.
4. If a wound is internally based, seek clarity from your doctor on whether you could add Manuka honey to your diet.
5. Chemotherapy drugs could be complemented with the honey.
6. In case you notice a change in color of a wound or cut, seek immediate medical attention. This also applies to wounds with a leaking fluid or pus by the third day.
7. Since honey is sticky, the best time to apply it on the affected area is during bedtime.
8. For those who may have an allergy to pollen or bee related products, allergic reactions are likely to occur. If this happens, do not continue to use the honey.
Manuka honey serves as an excellent natural source of treatment. It is a good alternative to cure small illnesses rather than having to take in large bitter pills. For the children, it can be added to their drinks or even food. It is a product that is efficient, tested, and approved to be 100 percent. So, what are you waiting for? Purchase it and begin a new wonderful journey with Manuka Honey.
