Tag: Antibacterial honey

Authentic Manuka honey is produced only in New Zealand from the nectar of the native Manuka tree. However, the various labeling systems, including the K factor, can be highly confusing for consumers looking to purchase honey for its unique benefits.

For millennia, honey has been a prized remedy, with records showing its use for medicinal purposes as far back as 8,000 years. While all pure, raw honey possesses some level of antimicrobial activity, one type consistently stands out: Manuka honey. The antibacterial power of honey comes from a combination of its high sugar content, low pH, and the production of hydrogen peroxide, but specific floral sources like the Manuka bush introduce unique compounds that supercharge this effect.

According to scientific studies, the antibacterial activity of most honeys is caused by hydrogen peroxide, but some honeys, most notably Manuka, contain high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), which is responsible for its potent non-peroxide activity. This guide explores which specific honeys contain methylglyoxal, where it comes from, and how its concentration varies.

Studies suggest that eucalyptus honey contains higher levels of certain antioxidants, like flavonoids, compared to other monofloral honeys. A key benefit of eucalyptus honey lies in its unique composition, derived from the nectar of eucalyptus trees, offering a distinct flavor and powerful healing properties.

Based on scientific studies, Manuka honey, particularly high-strength grades like 850 MGO, contains a potent compound called methylglyoxal (MGO) that provides significant antibacterial activity, setting it apart from regular honey. This high MGO level indicates a premium, therapeutic-grade product highly valued for its targeted wellness applications.

Recent studies have shown that some Australian eucalypt honeys, including Jarrah, possess higher average antimicrobial activity than New Zealand Manuka honey. This sparks a significant debate for consumers, forcing them to consider what is better, jarrah or Manuka honey, for their specific health and wellness goals.

According to the UMF Honey Association, Manuka honey with a UMF 15+ rating contains a minimum of 514mg/kg of Methylglyoxal (MGO), a potent antibacterial compound. This concentration level distinguishes it as a high-strength, therapeutic-grade honey, offering more potent health benefits than lower-rated varieties.

Did you know that Manuka honey was approved by the U.S. Federal Drug Administration in 2007 as a treatment for wounds? This unique honey's potent antibacterial properties are measured by specific rating systems, helping consumers and medical professionals determine its strength and authenticity.

Evidence of honey being used for medicinal purposes dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations. Today, modern research confirms this historical practice, with specific types demonstrating powerful antimicrobial properties. Finding out what is the best honey for antibacterial bacteria involves understanding the different mechanisms at play and the potency of various honeys.

Scientific studies show that Jarrah honey, a rare Australian variety, possesses exceptional antibacterial properties, often surpassing those found in some Manuka honeys. But is jarrah honey better than normal honey for everyday use or specific health needs? The answer lies in understanding the distinct characteristics that set this 'liquid gold' apart from the typical store-bought varieties.