What’s the buzz?

Honey is one of nature’s most amazing gifts. This sweet, syrupy nectar made by hundreds of busy little bees has a wide variety of different uses, from creating beeswax and helping staunch coughs from colds, to adding sweetness to tea, dressings, or toast. But have you ever heard of manuka honey, and its incredible immune supporting properties?

Originating from New Zealand and Australia, manuka honey comes specifically from bees that pollenate the native manuka bush (also known as tea tree).Tea tree oil is well known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal benefits which are also reflected in the honey made from its pollen.

Un-bee-lievable effects

The major magical ingredients of manuka honey are hydrogen peroxide and, most notably, methylglyoxal (MG), which is also found in regular honey, but in much smaller amounts. The higher the concentration of MG found within the honey, the stronger it’s antimicrobial effect. 

Some studies have suggested that the application of manuka honey to burns or wounds could be a natural way to fight infection or reduce inflammation. But the best way to reap its natural benefits is simply through ingestion, whether stirred into your cup of tea, mixed into your oatmeal, or spread on a slice of breakfast toast.

Manuka honey has also been recommended by the World Health Organization as an aid for cold and cough symptoms. And preliminary research suggests manuka honey may have benefits in supporting the immune system, in preventing acid reflux, and in the prevention or treatment of cancer.

You can find manuka honey in any of your local health food stores or on their websites. Taste some for yourself, and find out what all the buzz is about!