Manuka honey is a rare, functional honey produced exclusively in New Zealand when bees
pollinate the mānuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium). Compared with conventional honeys,
Manuka contains unusually high levels of natural compounds—most notably methylglyoxal
(MGO)—that gives it outstanding antimicrobial and soothing properties.
Nutrition Facts
Manuka honey is primarily natural sugars (glucose and fructose), but its real value lies in its
unique compounds:
- MGO Manuka honey: Potent antibacterial compound found in high concentrations only
in Manuka honey. - Hydrogen peroxide activity: A secondary antimicrobial effect present in all raw honeys.
- Enzymes: Including diastase, invertase, and glucose oxidase.
- Polyphenols & flavonoids: Antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress.
- Amino acids & organic acids
- Trace minerals: Potassium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and others.
Studies from the 1980s onward confirmed that Manuka honey contains significantly higher
levels of bioactive compounds than regular honeys, explaining its enhanced functional benefits.
11 Health Benefits of Manuka Honey
Disclaimer: The following points are based on laboratory, preclinical, and some
clinical research on Manuka honey in general. They are for informational purposes
only and not medical advice. Honey should not be given to children under one year
old.
- Digestive Health
Research suggests Manuka honey’s benefits may help support a balanced gut
environment and soothe occasional reflux or discomfort. - Skin Support
As a natural humectant with soothing properties, Manuka honey can help hydrate, calm
redness, and support the skin barrier when used topically. - Antimicrobial Activity
Laboratory studies show Manuka honey can inhibit the growth of a variety of microbes,
including some resistant strains, largely due to its high MGO content. - Wound & Burn Care (Adjunct)
Honey dressings have been studied for their ability to maintain a moist environment,
support tissue regeneration, and reduce irritation in minor burns and superficial wounds. - Oral Health
Manuka honey may help support gum health and reduce plaque when used
appropriately alongside brushing and flossing. - IBS/IBD Support (Emerging Evidence)
Animal studies suggest Manuka honey may help modulate inflammatory pathways and
oxidative stress in the gut, with early signs of potential for human support. - Sore Throat Soothing
A spoonful of Manuka honey can coat the throat, while research shows it may help
inhibit bacteria associated with throat discomfort. - Seasonal Wellness
Some studies suggest regular honey intake may help reduce the intensity of seasonal
allergy symptoms in certain individuals. - Beauty & Glow
Taken daily, Manuka honey may support energy and vitality, while topical use can help
skin appear hydrated and refreshed. - Sleep Support
A spoonful before bed may help provide steady fuel for the brain and support melatonin dynamics, contributing to restful sleep. - Respiratory Research
Laboratory studies indicate Manuka honey may help inhibit certain airway pathogens,
though this is an emerging area of research.
Grading System: Choosing the Right MGO Manuka Honey Strength
The key to understanding Manuka honey quality is its MGO rating. MGO (methylglyoxal) is the
compound that makes Manuka honey so powerful, and the higher the number, the stronger the
honey’s properties.
Here’s a simple guide:
- Entry (MGO 50+) → Entry-level culinary honey for everyday sweetening
(non-therapeutic). - Everyday (MGO 200+ / UMF 8+) → Supports general wellness and energy
(maintenance level). - Good (MGO 600+ / UMF 15+) → Supports immune system health (natural healing and
bacterial balance). - Better (MGO 850+ / UMF 20+) → Digestive and immune support (higher therapeutic
strength). - Best (MGO 1000+ / UMF 22+) → Advanced support, including inflammation balance.
All authentic Manuka honey sold for export from New Zealand must be lab-tested to confirm its
MGO content. Brands like Manukora publish the MGO level right on the jar, along with
batch-specific test results, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
This transparency helps consumers choose the right honey for their needs and ensures the
product is genuine and unadulterated.
Manukora clearly labels every jar with its MGO grade, and each batch is independently tested
and traceable back to the hive. This makes it easy to select the right level for your needs with
full confidence in authenticity.
Manuka vs. Regular Honey
The world of honey can be confusing considering there are so many types to choose from. In
addition to more than 300 varieties of honey that are sold worldwide, consumers have the
following options:
- Pasteurized or raw honey
- Filtered or unfiltered
- Comb (with the edible beeswax inside) liquid or whipped
- Local or imported
What is the difference between Manuka honey and regular honey? With Manuka, the nutritional
content is up to four times that of normal flower honeys. Another difference is the MGO
explained above.
Why is Manuka honey so expensive compared to regular honey? As a rule of thumb, you get
what you pay for, and most honey products at conventional supermarkets are not much different
from high fructose corn syrup.
What sets Manuka apart is higher concentrations of compounds such as methylglyoxal, or
MGO, which allows for Manuka to have antimicrobial effects that other honeys don’t have.
How to Buy and Use
Tips for buying:
- Look for the MGO number on the label.
- Ensure it’s packed in New Zealand and independently tested.
- Buy from a trusted brand like Manukora, which guarantees hive-to-jar traceability.
Ways to enjoy Manuka honey:
- Take 1–2 teaspoons daily straight from the spoon.
- Stir into warm (not hot) tea.
- Drizzle over yogurt, oats, or sprouted toast.
- Apply topically as a 10–15 minute mask for skin hydration (patch test first).
Storage: Keep tightly sealed in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored,
Manuka honey lasts for years.
Here’s Why…
- What it is: A rare honey from New Zealand, rich in MGO.
- What it’s good for: Research suggests benefits for digestion, skin, throat soothing, oral
health, sleep, and more. - How to choose: Pick the right MGO grade for your needs, from everyday wellness to
advanced support. - Why Manukora: Independent testing, full traceability, and ethical sourcing make
Manukora one of the most trusted brands.
Ready to try it? Visit manukora.com/axe and get 31% off, plus $25 in free gifts with the
Starter Kit. That includes a jar of their high-potency MGO 850+ Mānuka honey, 5 honey sticks,
a wooden spoon, and a guidebook on how to use it.
