Manuka Honey is a specific type of honey that comes from bees that pollinate a New Zealand bush of the same name and boasts way more than just cold-remedying properties. Manuka honey has even more health benefits than the type you have stored in your kitchen cupboard. The extra antibacterial boost is believed to stem from the abundance of a compound called methylglyoxal. MG actually exists in other types of honey, too, but in much smaller quantities.
Manuka Honey Benefits and Uses
Acid Reflux, Stomach Acid, and even H. Pylori
Most conditions that plague your stomach, including small bacterial intestine overgrowth, acid reflux, and low stomach acid can be mitigated with manuka, honey. Why is that? Well, the substance is able to balance out the acid in your body.
Helps Keep Skin Healthy
Manuka honey is great for keeping skin healthy because it is both moisturizing and antibacterial. When applied to the face, Manuka honey can fight inflammation and bacteria that cause acne, and it also provides plenty of moisture to keep skin looking firm and youthful. Another great benefit of Manuka honey for the skin is that it brings the skin’s pH to optimal levels, which prevents dryness, redness, and acne.
Burns and Wounds
The next time you burn yourself while cooking, you may want to dab some manuka honey on instead of applying ice. The material has been used in treating wounds and also can help reduce inflammation.
Use as a Regular Sweetener
Since honey is higher in fructose than glucose, it provides a sweeter flavor. This means that people can use a smaller amount while still getting a taste as sweet as sugar. Manuka honey easily dissolves in oatmeal, coffee, yogurt, and other foods, so individuals can easily enjoy the great tastes and healthy properties of Manuka honey.
Sinus Issues
Sinus infections are a common (and very pesky) occurrence. Using manuka honey in the nasal passages can fight off the bacteria that cause infection in the first place. (Be aware that there is a risk of reaction to the honey if you are allergic to bees.)
Gingivitis and Cavities
Manuka honey has microbial properties; it can help relieve cavities and gingivitis.
Insomnia and Sleep Troubles
Manuka honey can be the cure for insomnia and sleep troubles. If you add some honey to a glass of warm milk at bedtime, it releases melatonin, which helps keep you in a deep sleep so say goodbye to restless nights.