How to Take Manuka Honey 850 for Maximum Wellness

December 27, 2025 •

4 min read

With a high MGO rating of 850+, this Manuka honey variety indicates exceptional antibacterial potency and quality. Manuka honey 850 is a rare and premium form sought after for its targeted wellness benefits, and understanding the best methods of consumption is key to unlocking its full potential. This guide will help you use it effectively for different health goals.

Quick Summary

Manuka honey 850 can be taken internally for immune and digestive support or applied topically for skin healing and antibacterial protection. It is potent for targeted wellness needs, including sore throats, and can be consumed raw or mixed into warm, not hot, foods and drinks. The higher MGO rating denotes a greater concentration of its beneficial properties.

Key Points

Oral Consumption: For targeted internal support, take Manuka honey 850 directly off a spoon, allowing it to coat the back of the throat or digest on an empty stomach.
Topical Application: Apply a thin, sterile layer of the honey to minor wounds, burns, or affected skin areas to use its potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Avoid High Heat: Do not add Manuka honey to boiling water, as heat diminishes its beneficial bioactive compounds; instead, stir it into warm beverages.
Use for Specific Needs: The MGO 850+ rating is often chosen for intensive, targeted health concerns like persistent sore throats, moderate digestive issues, or healing skin infections.
Consumption: Regular consumption is a common approach for incorporating Manuka honey into a wellness routine.
Important Safety: Never give honey to infants under 12 months due to botulism risk, and consult a doctor if you have diabetes or bee-related allergies.

Understanding Manuka Honey 850

Manuka honey with a Methylglyoxal (MGO) rating of 850+ is considered a high-grade, potent honey with exceptional antibacterial properties. MGO is the key organic compound responsible for Manuka honey's unique health benefits, and a higher number signifies a greater concentration of this compound. This makes MGO 850+ particularly effective for targeted, intensive wellness needs, beyond general daily maintenance.

Oral Consumption for Targeted Health Benefits

For those looking to leverage the internal benefits of Manuka honey 850, the method of consumption is critical to preserve its bioactive compounds. Direct ingestion is often the most effective approach for addressing specific issues.

For Acute Immune Support and Sore Throats: During cold and flu season or at the first sign of a sore throat, consider taking Manuka honey directly. Allowing the honey to coat the back of your throat can provide soothing relief and antibacterial action. Some people find repeating this process useful. For best results, avoid consuming other food or drink for a period after taking it.
For Digestive and Gut Health: To support a healthy gut flora, it is often suggested to consume Manuka honey on an empty stomach. Many people find taking it before breakfast and before bed beneficial. Mixing it into a small amount of yogurt may also aid delivery to the digestive tract.
As a Daily Wellness Ritual: For general immune boosting and maintenance, regular consumption can be part of a wellness routine. Many enjoy it first thing in the morning.

Topical Application for Skin and Wound Care

Due to its powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, Manuka honey 850 is highly effective for topical use. Medical-grade Manuka honey has been approved by health authorities for wound care.

For Minor Wounds and Burns: Clean the affected area thoroughly and apply a thin layer of Manuka honey. Cover with a sterile bandage. The honey helps keep the wound moist and protected, promoting faster healing and minimizing scar formation. Reapply as needed.
For Skin Conditions and Acne: As a hydrating and antibacterial face mask, Manuka honey 850 can help soothe irritation and clear up breakouts. Apply a thin layer to the clean face and leave for a period before rinsing with warm water. This can be done regularly to improve skin health.
For Soothing Eczema: Create a soothing balm by mixing Manuka honey with a carrier oil like cold-pressed coconut oil or aloe vera. Apply this mixture to affected areas to reduce inflammation and irritation.

Comparison of Manuka Honey MGO Grades

Understanding the different grades is essential for choosing the right honey for your needs. The MGO rating directly correlates with the potency and antibacterial activity.


MGO Rating	Typical Uses	Potency Level	Best For
MGO 100-300+	Everyday wellness, general health, sweetening	Low to Moderate	Daily routine, mild support
MGO 350-500+	Enhanced immune support, mild digestive issues	Moderate	Strengthening immunity, seasonal wellness
MGO 550-700+	Targeted relief, moderate infections	High	More persistent colds, flu symptoms
MGO 850+	Intensive support, resistant infections, advanced wound care	Very High	Serious skin conditions, significant immune boost
MGO 1000+	Maximum potency, advanced inflammatory balance	Ultra High	Specific, acute wellness needs

Cautions and Best Practices

While generally safe, there are important considerations when using high-grade Manuka honey.

Heating: Avoid adding Manuka honey to boiling water, as high heat can destroy the beneficial bioactive compounds. Instead, stir it into warm (not boiling) tea or coffee to preserve its properties.
Infants: Due to the risk of infant botulism, honey should never be given to children under 12 months of age.
Diabetes and Allergies: Individuals with diabetes should consult a healthcare professional before regular consumption, as honey contains natural sugars that can affect blood sugar levels. If you have a bee or pollen allergy, use caution and consider a patch test before internal or topical use.
Storage: Store Manuka honey in a cool, dry place below 25°C to maintain its quality and potency.

Conclusion: Making the Most of High-Potency Manuka Honey

Taking Manuka honey 850 effectively hinges on understanding its high potency and matching the method to your health goals. For targeted internal issues like a sore throat or digestive complaint, taking it neat off a spoon is often preferred. For skin issues, topical application provides a potent healing barrier. Incorporating a high-grade Manuka honey into your routine can be a powerful way to support your wellness, but always remember to use it wisely, avoiding excessive heat and being mindful of contraindications. The high MGO rating of 850+ means it is a potent product, making it a valuable consideration for your health goals. To further explore the science behind its antibacterial properties, consider reviewing research from sources like the National Institutes of Health.(https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6613335/)

Frequently Asked Questions

MGO (Methylglyoxal) is the organic compound responsible for Manuka honey's potent antibacterial activity, and the MGO rating indicates its concentration. UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) is a quality certification that measures three signature compounds, including MGO, to assure purity and quality. A higher number in either system signifies greater potency.

There is no universally set approach, but a common practice for general wellness is regular consumption. For more targeted or intensive needs, some people consume it more frequently. It is important to consume honey in moderation due to its natural sugar content.

Like all honey, Manuka contains high levels of natural sugar. Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully and consult with their healthcare provider before adding Manuka honey to their diet.

For a persistent sore throat, taking the honey and letting it melt slowly in your mouth, allowing it to coat the throat, is a common method. This can be repeated as needed. For maximum effect, do not dilute it in hot water and avoid other food or drink for a period afterward.

Yes, you can add Manuka honey to warm tea or coffee, but it is crucial not to add it to boiling water. Excessive heat can damage the beneficial bioactive compounds. Let your drink cool slightly before stirring in the honey.

Manuka honey is generally safe for most people. Potential side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions, especially in those with bee or pollen allergies, and an increase in blood sugar levels, particularly with excessive consumption.

The time frame for results can vary. For a sore throat, relief can be quick. For skin conditions, noticeable changes may appear after several applications. When used for digestive health, it may take regular use to see a positive effect.

Studies have shown that high-MGO Manuka honey may be effective against bacteria like H. pylori, which can be associated with stomach ulcers. It may also help with inflammation. However, this should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional.