When it comes to sweeteners and natural remedies, honey is a staple in many households. Among the various types available, manuka honey often garners special attention due to its reputed health benefits and unique properties. While both manuka honey and regular honey have been celebrated for their natural sweetness and potential health benefits, they vary significantly in their composition and effects.
In this post, we explore everything you need to know about manuka honey and regular honey, including:
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The unique properties of manuka honey
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How manuka honey differs from regular honey
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The specific health benefits of each type
Read on to learn more about manuka honey vs regular honey and discover what sets them apart in terms of their health benefits and unique properties.
Defining Manuka Honey and Regular Honey
Regular honey is produced by bees from the nectar of a wide variety of flowers and is known for its general sweetness and versatility. It is typically available in raw or processed forms, with varying levels of filtration and heating.
Manuka honey, on the other hand, comes from the nectar of the manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), which is native to New Zealand. This unique raw honey is renowned for its distinct flavor and higher concentration of beneficial compounds, including antibacterial and antimicrobial properties.
The Unique Properties of Manuka Honey
One of the primary factors that sets manuka honey apart is its Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). This rating system measures the concentration of specific compounds such as methylglyoxal (MGO) and dihydroxyacetone (DHA) that contribute to its antibacterial activity. The higher the UMF rating, the more potent the honey’s antibacterial effect. Genuine manuka honey often comes with a UMF rating, ensuring its authenticity and quality.
In contrast, regular honey typically does not possess the same concentration of these beneficial compounds. While regular honey does have some antioxidant properties and antibacterial properties, its effects are generally milder compared to those of manuka honey.
Health Benefits: Manuka Honey vs Regular Honey
When comparing manuka honey vs regular honey, the health benefits of each are worth noting:
Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Activity
Manuka honey’s higher concentration of MGO gives it superior antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it effective in treating minor wounds and infections. It has been used in wound care settings and traditional medicine for its potential to aid in wound healing and reduce bacterial infection. When compared to tea tree oil, Manuka oil is 20 to 30 times more effective against bacteria and 5 to 10 times more effective against fungus.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Manuka honey is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for soothing sore throats and promoting overall digestive health. Regular honey also has some anti-inflammatory effects but is generally less potent in this regard.
Digestive Health
Both manuka and regular honey offer benefits for the digestive system. However, manuka honey’s specific health benefits include potential support for digestive health by reducing symptoms of indigestion and promoting a balanced gut flora.
Immune System Support
Manuka honey is often touted for its ability to bolster the immune system due to its high concentration of beneficial compounds. Regular honey can also support the immune system but typically to a lesser extent.
Authenticity and Quality: How to Choose
When selecting manuka honey, it is crucial to look for indicators of authenticity. Real manuka honey will typically display a UMF rating or a DNA test verification. This ensures that you are getting genuine manuka honey with its full spectrum of health benefits. Authentic manuka honey is often labeled as such to distinguish it from products that may be mixed with other types of honey.
Regular honey, while still a valuable and versatile product, does not offer the same unique benefits as manuka honey. If you’re looking for specific plant properties, high antibacterial activity, and enhanced health benefits, investing in genuine manuka honey might be worthwhile.
Manuka Honey for Eczema and Sensitive Skin
Manuka honey is increasingly recognized for its soothing and healing properties, making it an excellent choice for managing eczema and sensitive skin. Its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce redness and irritation, while its high concentration of beneficial compounds supports skin repair and moisture retention. For those struggling with eczema or other skin sensitivities, incorporating Manuka honey into your skincare routine can provide significant relief.
Our Organic Manuka Skin Soothing Cream offers a premium Manuka honey product specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Unlike other creams with harsh chemicals, ours has a soft, buttery texture that’s perfect for all ages, including babies. Kids love its sweet honey scent! Our cream is different because it has a smooth balm texture with no sticky residue, is doctor-approved, and has no fillers or preservatives. Rated 1 by EWG Skin Deep with 16+ New Zealand Active Manuka (monofloral), it’s a safe and natural choice for soothing and moisturizing sensitive skin from head to toe.
Soothe Sensitive Skin with Manuka Honey Today
Whether you’re looking to soothe a specific skin issue naturally or want to incorporate more gentle, effective ingredients into your skincare routine, manuka honey is your go-to for achieving healthier, happier skin.
