Medihoney vs. Manuka Honey: The Core Differences
To understand the distinction between these two products, one must first recognize their relationship. Think of it this way: all Medihoney is a type of Manuka honey, but not all Manuka honey is Medihoney. The differences lie in the processing, sterilization, and intended use of the final product.
The Source: Leptospermum Honey
Both Medihoney and high-quality Manuka honey are sourced from the nectar of Leptospermum plants, native to New Zealand and Australia. This specific honey is known for its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a powerful antibacterial compound. The level of MGO is what gives Leptospermum honey its potent medicinal properties, and this concentration is often measured using the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) or MGO rating.
Sterilization: The Medihoney Advantage
One of the most critical differentiators is sterilization. Standard, edible Manuka honey is not sterilized and may contain bacteria or spores, such as Clostridium botulinum spores, which can be harmful if introduced into an open wound. Medihoney, on the other hand, is a medical-grade product that undergoes a gamma radiation sterilization process to eliminate all bacteria and spores, making it safe for use on open wounds and burns. This is why medical professionals can confidently use it in clinical settings for advanced wound care.
Processing and Formulations
While Manuka honey typically comes in its pure, raw form, Medihoney is often formulated into specific wound care products. These products can include gels, pastes, and dressings, and may contain additional gelling agents to improve viscosity and adherence to the wound bed.
- Medihoney Antibacterial Medical Honey™: This formulation is 100% sterile Leptospermum honey.
- Medihoney Antibacterial Wound Gel™: This product contains 80% sterile Leptospermum honey and 20% natural gelling agents for improved viscosity.
Usage: Internal vs. External
The primary use of standard Manuka honey is as an oral supplement or food additive, prized for its potential health benefits. It should never be used on open wounds. Medihoney, conversely, is exclusively for topical application and is a clinically proven medical device for wound management.
Comparison Table: Medihoney vs. Manuka Honey
| Feature | Standard Manuka Honey | Medihoney (Medical-Grade Manuka) |
|---|---|---|
| Processing | Minimally processed, sold as an edible product. | Sterilized and formulated into medical products. |
| Sterility | Non-sterile; may contain bacterial spores. | Sterile (gamma-irradiated) to eliminate bacteria and spores. |
| Intended Use | Oral consumption (food, supplements). | Topical application for wound and burn care. |
| Applications | General health and wellness, dietary supplement. | Infected wounds, burns, ulcers, surgical wounds, lacerations. |
| Safety | Not safe for use on open wounds due to contamination risk. | Clinically proven and safe for topical wound use. |
| Format | Typically sold in jars as honey. | Available as gels, pastes, and impregnated dressings. |
The Importance of Medical-Grade Honey
Medical-grade honey like Medihoney is a vital tool in modern wound care, particularly for hard-to-heal or infected wounds. Its properties help to create an optimal healing environment by:
- Cleaning the wound of debris and bacteria.
- Protecting the wound from infection.
- Encouraging healing and minimizing scarring.
- Managing exudate (wound drainage) to create a moist, but not saturated, healing environment.
- Reducing odor and pain associated with chronic wounds.
This specialized processing and formulation are what allow Medihoney to be safely and effectively applied in a clinical or home healthcare setting, something that is simply not possible with standard Manuka honey.
Conclusion: Not Interchangeable Products
In conclusion, while Medihoney is derived from Manuka honey, they are not the same product and should not be used interchangeably. The key lies in Medihoney's rigorous sterilization and specific formulation for medical use, which makes it safe and effective for treating wounds and burns. Regular Manuka honey, while beneficial for general health when consumed, poses a risk of contamination if applied to an open wound. For any topical application, particularly on broken skin, it is essential to use a sterile, medical-grade product like Medihoney. For more detailed information on clinical uses, one can consult studies on wound care with honey.
