Are Manuka honey lozenges good for soothing sore throats?

January 1, 2026 •

4 min read

Studies have shown that honey can be more effective at reducing cough frequency and severity than some standard treatments for upper respiratory infections. But are Manuka honey lozenges a good and effective way to get this natural relief, or are they just a sweetened candy?

Quick Summary

Manuka honey lozenges are considered an effective option for targeted sore throat relief due to their high methylglyoxal (MGO) content, which offers potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Key Points

High Potency MGO: Manuka honey contains significantly higher levels of methylglyoxal (MGO) than regular honey, giving it stronger antibacterial and antimicrobial effects.
Targeted Throat Relief: Lozenges provide a slow, gradual release of honey, ensuring prolonged contact with the throat and mouth to soothe irritation and calm coughs effectively.
Anti-inflammatory Benefits: Beyond just coating the throat, Manuka honey's natural anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce the swelling and discomfort associated with sore throats.
Convenient & Natural: Manuka lozenges offer a mess-free, on-the-go solution for relief, often incorporating other natural ingredients like Vitamin C for added immune support.
Certified Quality is Key: For true efficacy, opt for lozenges with a certified MGO or UMF rating to guarantee the honey's potency and authenticity.
Safety Precautions: Individuals with diabetes, bee allergies, and parents of infants under one year old should avoid Manuka honey products and consult a healthcare provider.

The Science Behind Manuka Honey's Power

Manuka honey, produced by bees in New Zealand and Australia that pollinate the native Manuka bush, stands apart from regular honey due to its high concentration of a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO). This MGO is largely responsible for Manuka honey's potent antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it more effective against a wide range of bacteria than standard honey. The higher the MGO concentration, the stronger the antibacterial effect. These properties have been investigated for decades and are why Manuka honey has earned a reputation as a powerful natural remedy.

Unlike conventional treatments that may contribute to antibiotic resistance, bacteria have not been shown to develop resistance to Manuka honey. This makes it a valuable tool in supporting immune health and managing minor infections. Lozenges provide a slow-release format, allowing the honey to coat the throat and mouth for an extended period, maximizing contact time with irritated tissues.

Grading Systems for Authenticity

To ensure you are getting genuine, high-quality Manuka honey, two primary grading systems are used:

MGO (Methylglyoxal) Rating: This indicates the amount of MGO in the honey, measured in mg/kg. Higher MGO numbers (e.g., MGO 400+) signify a more potent honey.
UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) Rating: The UMF is a more comprehensive system that measures MGO and other signature Manuka compounds. A UMF rating of 10+ or higher is considered a medicinal grade.

Benefits of Manuka Honey Lozenges for Throat Health

There are several advantages to using Manuka honey lozenges, especially when dealing with throat discomfort:

Targeted, Soothing Relief: The lozenges dissolve slowly, providing a continuous coating of honey to soothe and calm a dry, scratchy, or sore throat.
Potent Antibacterial Action: With high MGO content, the honey can help fight against bacteria that cause sore throats and other oral infections.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Manuka honey possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and irritation in the throat lining.
Convenience: Individually wrapped and easy to carry, lozenges offer on-the-go relief without the mess of a jar.
Immune System Support: Many formulations include additional ingredients like Vitamin C, which can provide an extra boost to the immune system.
Antioxidant Properties: Manuka honey is rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and support overall health.

Manuka Lozenges vs. Regular Honey Lozenges


Feature	Manuka Honey Lozenges	Regular Honey Lozenges
Active Ingredient	High concentration of MGO, certified via MGO or UMF rating.	Lower, uncertified levels of active compounds.
Antibacterial Potency	Significantly higher due to elevated MGO content.	Lower, providing a general soothing effect but less targeted antibacterial action.
Effectiveness	Provides potent, targeted relief and immune support.	Primarily offers temporary soothing through coating the throat.
Price	Generally more expensive due to certification and rarity.	More affordable and widely available.
Taste Profile	Can have a more bitter or complex flavor profile depending on the grade.	Typically sweeter with a more familiar honey flavor.
Target Area	Specifically targets oral and throat discomfort for prolonged action.	Offers general soothing that is absorbed more quickly.

How to Use Manuka Honey Lozenges Safely

Using Manuka honey lozenges is straightforward, but a few considerations ensure you get the maximum benefit while remaining safe. Always follow the product's recommended usage instructions.

Usage Tips:

Dissolve Slowly: For optimal effect, allow the lozenge to dissolve gradually in your mouth. Avoid chewing it, as this shortens the contact time with your throat.
Follow Instructions: Adhere to the recommended usage guidelines provided on the product packaging.
Check for Allergies: If you are allergic to bees or honey, do not use these products.
Not for Infants: Honey, including Manuka honey, is not suitable for infants under 12-15 months due to the risk of infant botulism. Always check the product label for age recommendations.
Monitor Blood Sugar: Due to their sugar content, individuals with diabetes or those monitoring blood sugar should be cautious and consult a healthcare professional.

Conclusion

So, are Manuka honey lozenges good? The evidence strongly suggests they are an excellent option for targeted, natural relief for sore throats and coughs. Their high concentration of potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds, delivered in a convenient, slow-release format, makes them more effective than standard honey lozenges. While they may cost more, the verified quality and boosted properties of certified Manuka honey justify the price for many seeking a powerful natural remedy. As with any health product, it is crucial to use them according to instructions and be mindful of individual health concerns or allergies. Always consult a healthcare professional for persistent symptoms or pre-existing conditions. For more detailed insights into honey's effects on upper respiratory infections, the BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine provides extensive research.

Frequently Asked Questions

Manuka honey lozenges contain significantly higher levels of the antibacterial compound methylglyoxal (MGO) compared to regular honey lozenges, offering more potent and targeted medicinal effects.

MGO (Methylglyoxal) measures the concentration of antibacterial compounds, while UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) is a comprehensive quality trademark. A higher rating for either indicates a more potent and active honey.

Most brands state a minimum age, often around 2 to 6 years, due to the choking hazard. Additionally, honey products are unsafe for infants under 12-15 months due to the risk of botulism.

While Manuka honey has antibacterial properties, strep throat is a serious bacterial infection that requires antibiotics. Manuka lozenges can provide soothing relief but should not replace prescribed medical treatment.

Side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions in those sensitive to bees or honey. People with diabetes should also be cautious due to the sugar content, which can cause blood sugar spikes.

The frequency of taking Manuka honey lozenges should align with the specific product's instructions for use. Always follow the guidelines provided on the packaging.

The flavor is determined by added ingredients like lemon or ginger and does not typically affect the honey's potency, which is dependent on its MGO or UMF rating.