Is Manuka Honey Good for the Heart?

November 15, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the World Health Organization, cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death globally. A growing body of research is exploring natural compounds that could help mitigate heart disease risk factors, including whether Manuka honey is good for the heart. This unique, potent honey is rich in bioactive compounds that may offer significant cardiovascular benefits.

Quick Summary

Manuka honey is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may support heart health by combating oxidative stress and inflammation. Research suggests it can positively impact cholesterol levels and blood vessel function. However, as a sugar, it should be consumed in moderation, and more large-scale human studies are needed to confirm these effects.

Key Points

Antioxidant Protection: Manuka honey contains potent antioxidants like flavonoids and polyphenols that combat oxidative stress and protect cardiovascular health.
Improved Lipid Profile: Studies indicate that replacing sugar with honey, including Manuka, can help lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while raising 'good' HDL cholesterol.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce chronic inflammation, a major contributor to heart disease progression.
Blood Pressure Regulation: Research suggests honey may help modestly lower blood pressure and improve blood vessel function.
Consume in Moderation: As a high-sugar food, Manuka honey should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals with diabetes or metabolic issues.
Potency is Key: The benefits are most associated with raw, monofloral Manuka honey, and buyers should look for quality indicators like a UMF or MGO rating.

The Scientific Link Between Honey and Cardiovascular Health

Manuka honey, native to New Zealand, is renowned for its unique properties, largely attributed to the compound Methylglyoxal (MGO). While this is often highlighted for its antibacterial effects, the honey also possesses potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits that extend to cardiovascular health. Honey, in general, has been studied as a potential cardioprotective agent, and Manuka honey is particularly potent due to its rich and stable content of these beneficial compounds.

Manuka Honey's Role in Reducing Risk Factors

Antioxidant Power against Oxidative Stress

One of the primary ways Manuka honey may protect the heart is through its high antioxidant capacity. Oxidative stress, an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, is a significant contributor to cardiovascular diseases. It can lead to inflammation and damage to blood vessels, known as atherosclerosis. Manuka honey is packed with flavonoids and phenolic compounds that neutralize these harmful free radicals, thereby protecting the cardiovascular system.

Key Antioxidants in Manuka Honey:

Flavonoids: Plant-based compounds linked to reduced cardiovascular disease risk.
Polyphenols: Exhibit antioxidant, anti-ischemic, and antithrombotic effects.
Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester (CAPE): A component of honeybee propolis with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Impact on Cholesterol Levels

High levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol and triglycerides are major risk factors for heart disease. Research suggests that honey, particularly when replacing refined sugar, may improve lipid profiles, including reducing total and LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL ("good") cholesterol. This effect appears stronger with raw and monofloral varieties like Manuka.

Effects on Blood Pressure and Blood Vessel Function

Studies suggest honey may have a modest hypotensive effect and improve blood vessel function, potentially through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This can support endothelial function and promote vasodilation. Animal studies have also shown Manuka honey can inhibit vasospasm.

Inflammation and the Heart

Inflammation is a central factor in heart disease. Manuka honey's potent anti-inflammatory properties, linked to compounds like MGO, may help manage systemic inflammation, contributing to heart health.

Comparative Analysis: Manuka Honey vs. Regular Honey


Feature	Manuka Honey (Higher Quality)	Regular Honey (Processed)
Key Compound	Contains high levels of Methylglyoxal (MGO), responsible for strong antibacterial and therapeutic effects.	Does not contain significant MGO; properties depend on floral source and processing.
Antioxidant Content	Generally higher levels of flavonoids and phenols due to its unique floral source (Manuka bush) and often being sold raw.	Can contain antioxidants, but levels are often lower and diminished by pasteurization.
Anti-inflammatory Effect	Documented potent anti-inflammatory properties that have been linked to reducing inflammation-related diseases.	Contains some anti-inflammatory compounds, but typically less potent than high-grade Manuka honey.
Cardiometabolic Impact	Studies suggest potential for improved lipid profiles and blood sugar control, especially when raw and monofloral.	Studies on general honey also show benefits, but potency is less consistent than with certified Manuka.
Origin and Processing	Sourced from Leptospermum species in New Zealand/Australia. High-grade versions are typically raw and minimally processed.	Often a blend of honeys from various floral sources and is typically pasteurized and filtered, which removes some beneficial compounds.

Considerations and Recommendations

Manuka honey is a form of sugar and should be consumed in moderation, ideally replacing less healthy sweeteners. Individuals with conditions like diabetes should consult a healthcare provider before use. Choosing certified products with a UMF or MGO rating ensures quality.

Conclusion

Manuka honey shows promise for cardiovascular health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These may help improve lipid profiles, support blood vessel function, and combat oxidative stress, potentially reducing heart disease risk. While a valuable part of a heart-healthy lifestyle when replacing refined sugar, it is not a cure and requires more large-scale human trials for full confirmation. Always prioritize a balanced diet, exercise, and medical advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Manuka honey is not a cure for heart disease. It should be considered a potential supplement with cardioprotective properties due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, not a replacement for prescribed medication or a healthy lifestyle.

Some studies suggest that honey, particularly when used to replace refined sugar, can positively influence cholesterol levels by decreasing total and LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol. The effects are more pronounced with raw, monofloral varieties like Manuka.

Manuka honey, like all honey, is high in natural sugar and can affect blood glucose levels. Individuals with diabetes or pre-existing heart conditions should consult their healthcare provider before consuming it orally, and do so in moderation.

To potentially benefit heart health, consider using Manuka honey as a substitute for refined sugar in moderation. Add it to tea, yogurt, oatmeal, or a smoothie rather than consuming additional sugar.

Due to its unique MGO content and higher concentration of stable antioxidants, high-quality Manuka honey is generally considered more potent and beneficial for heart health than regular, processed honey.

Preliminary research suggests that regular, moderate consumption of honey may have a modest hypotensive (blood pressure-lowering) effect. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions may contribute to improved blood vessel function.

Studies have shown that honey, including Manuka, exhibits cardioprotective effects through antioxidant activity, improvements in lipid metabolism (cholesterol), and reduced inflammation. However, more extensive human trials are needed to fully confirm the specific benefits of Manuka honey for the heart.