How often should I take Manuka honey when sick? A guide to its use for illness

November 28, 2025 •

3 min read

Recent studies suggest that honey can be more effective than some conventional treatments for upper respiratory tract infections, particularly for cough frequency and severity. To harness these benefits, it is crucial to understand how often should I take Manuka honey when sick, ensuring you use it appropriately and effectively.

Quick Summary

This guide examines how often to use Manuka honey during illness. Learn about its potential to soothe symptoms such as sore throats and coughs, supporting immune function.

Key Points

Symptom Relief Frequency: Consider using Manuka honey at intervals to help soothe sore throats and coughs during illness.
Consumption Method: To potentially maximize benefits, consume the honey directly or mix it into a warm (not hot) beverage like tea with lemon.
Grade Selection: For periods of illness, a higher MGO/UMF rating (e.g., 400+ MGO or UMF 12+) is often suggested for potentially stronger properties.
Adjust as Symptoms Improve: As symptoms lessen, you might reduce the frequency of consumption.
Safety Considerations: Avoid giving honey to infants under one and consult a doctor if you have diabetes or a bee allergy.
Complementary Use: Manuka honey is best used to support, not replace, medical treatment for significant or ongoing health issues.

Understanding Manuka Honey's Role When You're Ill

Manuka honey, originating from New Zealand, is recognized for properties that set it apart from regular honey. A key component is methylglyoxal (MGO), associated with its notable antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory characteristics. When illness strikes, Manuka honey may be a useful addition to your routine, and understanding its suggested frequency of use is important for potential benefits.

The Science Behind Manuka Honey's Properties

Unlike typical honey, which primarily uses hydrogen peroxide for its antibacterial action, Manuka honey's effectiveness is closely linked to its MGO content. Its potency is often indicated through a grading system like the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) or MGO rating. Higher numbers in these ratings suggest a greater concentration of MGO and potentially stronger antimicrobial activity. This can be relevant when addressing symptoms like sore throats and coughs, which can be associated with bacterial or viral infections.

Frequency of Use During Active Illness

During the peak of a cold, flu, or other infection, a more frequent approach might be considered to help soothe immediate symptoms and support your body's natural defenses. Consuming it at regular intervals may be more beneficial than taking a large amount at once. Given its sugar content, mindful consumption is advisable.

For sore throats and persistent coughs: Consider using Manuka honey at intervals to provide a soothing effect. Allowing it to dissolve slowly in the mouth can coat the throat. Taking some before bedtime may also help reduce nighttime coughing and aid sleep.
For general immune support: Some suggest incorporating Manuka honey into your daily routine between meals. As symptoms begin to improve, you might reduce the frequency.
For stomach and digestive issues: When illness affects your stomach, consuming Manuka honey on an empty stomach might offer some relief from gastrointestinal discomfort.

How to Use Manuka Honey Effectively

How you consume Manuka honey when sick can influence its potential benefits. Here are some common methods:

Directly: For direct relief of a sore throat or cough, consuming the honey without dilution allows its consistency to coat the throat.
In warm beverages: Mixing Manuka honey into warm water or herbal tea is a popular method. Adding lemon or ginger can potentially enhance its soothing properties. It's important that the liquid is warm, not boiling, as high heat can affect the honey's natural enzymes and properties.
As a nasal rinse: Some anecdotal reports mention using Manuka honey in a saline solution for nasal rinses for sinus issues, but this should only be explored under professional medical guidance.
Homemade lozenges: Creating lozenges with Manuka honey, herbal tea, and gelatin can offer a portable way to consume it.

Comparison Table: Manuka Honey Grades

Choosing an appropriate MGO/UMF grade may be a consideration for its potential effectiveness. For periods of illness, a higher rating is often suggested.


Grade (MGO)	Corresponding Grade (UMF)	Potential Relevance During Sickness
100+	5+ to 8+	General wellness support.
250+	10+	Considered for typical cold and sore throat symptoms.
400+ to 550+	12+ to 15+	Often suggested for more persistent cold and flu symptoms, coughs, and throat irritation.
850+	20+	Considered for more significant concerns, used with caution due to high concentration.

Important Considerations and Precautions

While Manuka honey is a natural product, it's not suitable for everyone, and certain precautions are necessary.

Infants under 1 year old: Due to the risk of botulism, honey should never be given to infants.
Individuals with diabetes: Manuka honey's high sugar content can impact blood sugar levels. Those with diabetes should consult their healthcare provider before regular consumption.
Allergies: People with allergies to bees or honey should avoid Manuka honey.
Not a substitute for medical treatment: Manuka honey is a complementary option and should not replace prescribed medications for serious health conditions. Always seek medical advice for diagnosis and treatment plans.

Conclusion

When experiencing cold or flu symptoms, considering the appropriate frequency for taking Manuka honey may aid in managing symptoms naturally. By understanding the significance of MGO and selecting a suitable grade, you can potentially find relief. Remember to consume it thoughtfully—perhaps directly or in warm tea—and be mindful of safety points, especially concerning infants and individuals with diabetes. Incorporating this natural product could potentially offer soothing comfort and support your body's recovery process.

For additional information regarding Manuka honey's traditional uses and potential effects, reputable health resources like WebMD offer valuable insights.(https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/manuka-honey-medicinal-uses)

Frequently Asked Questions

Manuka honey is generally considered safe for children over one year old. However, like all honey, it should not be given to infants under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism.

For a sore throat, allowing a small amount of Manuka honey to dissolve slowly in your mouth can help coat the throat and provide a soothing sensation.

Due to its natural sugar content, individuals with diabetes should consult their doctor before using Manuka honey regularly to ensure it aligns with their dietary and health management plan.

You can mix Manuka honey with tea, but it's advisable to use warm water rather than boiling water. High temperatures may reduce the effectiveness of some beneficial compounds in the honey.

Manuka honey can be used periodically for several days while symptoms persist. As symptoms subside, the frequency can be adjusted from more frequent use to occasional use for ongoing support.

For active cold and flu symptoms, Manuka honey with a higher MGO grade, such as 400+ to 550+, is often suggested for its potentially stronger properties. For general wellness, a lower grade might be suitable.

Manuka honey may have potential interactions with certain medications, including some chemotherapy treatments. If you are taking any medication, it is prudent to consult your doctor before using Manuka honey.