What Does Manuka Honey Do When You Eat It? A Comprehensive Guide

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

According to scientific research dating back to the 1980s, Manuka honey contains a unique bioactive compound, methylglyoxal (MGO), that gives it powerful antibacterial properties. When you eat it, what does Manuka honey do to benefit your health internally, especially concerning digestion and immune support?

Quick Summary

Eating Manuka honey, known for its high methylglyoxal content, can offer several internal health benefits. These include supporting digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria, soothing inflammation, and potentially fighting harmful pathogens like H. pylori. Its antioxidant properties also contribute to immune support and overall wellness.

Key Points

Antibacterial Power: Eating Manuka honey introduces potent methylglyoxal (MGO) compounds into your system, which have stronger antibacterial properties than regular honey, supporting overall health.
Gut Health: Manuka honey acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria while inhibiting harmful pathogens like H. pylori, thus promoting a balanced and healthy digestive system.
Soothing Digestive Issues: The anti-inflammatory effects help soothe an inflamed stomach lining and can provide relief for conditions such as acid reflux, indigestion, and ulcers.
Immune Support: High levels of antioxidants in Manuka honey help protect the body from oxidative stress, contributing to a stronger immune system.
Sore Throat Relief: When swallowed, its thick consistency coats and soothes an irritated throat, with antibacterial properties working to fight the underlying infection.

The Science Behind Manuka Honey's Internal Benefits

Manuka honey's fame stems from its potent non-peroxide antibacterial activity, primarily attributed to high concentrations of methylglyoxal (MGO). This unique compound is formed from dihydroxyacetone (DHA), which is naturally present in the nectar of the Manuka bush. While regular honey relies on hydrogen peroxide for its milder antibacterial effect, Manuka's MGO content ensures its potency remains stable. Beyond its well-known topical uses, ingesting Manuka honey delivers these properties throughout the digestive tract, where they can exert several unique effects.

Supporting Your Gut Microbiome

Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria, a complex ecosystem known as the microbiome, which is vital for digestion, immunity, and mental well-being. Manuka honey can help promote a healthy gut balance in two key ways:

As a Prebiotic: Manuka honey contains fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), which act as a prebiotic, nourishing beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. This helps create a thriving environment for these good microbes to flourish.
Inhibiting Harmful Pathogens: The MGO in Manuka honey has been shown in laboratory studies to be effective against a wide range of harmful gut bacteria, including H. pylori, a common cause of stomach ulcers and gastritis. By selectively reducing bad bacteria, it helps restore a more harmonious balance within the gut.

Soothing Digestive Distress

For those who experience digestive discomfort, Manuka honey's anti-inflammatory properties can be particularly soothing.

Gastritis and Ulcers: The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects of high-MGO Manuka honey can help calm an inflamed stomach lining and create a protective barrier, reducing the impact of stomach acid on ulcers.
Acid Reflux and Indigestion: Taking Manuka honey can help soothe the digestive tract and provide relief from symptoms of acid reflux and general indigestion.
Combating C. difficile: Some studies suggest Manuka honey can inhibit the growth of C. difficile, a bacteria known to cause severe food poisoning and gut issues.

Boosting Immunity and Fighting Illness

Manuka honey's benefits extend beyond the gut. Ingesting it can contribute to overall immune function and provide relief for common ailments.

Antioxidant Power: Rich in antioxidants, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, Manuka honey helps fight oxidative stress and neutralizes harmful free radicals in the body.
Soothing a Sore Throat: The thick, viscous consistency of Manuka honey provides a protective coating for the throat, reducing irritation and relieving discomfort. Its antibacterial properties help fight off the bacteria responsible for infection.

Manuka Honey vs. Regular Honey: An Internal Comparison

While all honey offers some health benefits, Manuka's unique properties make it distinct when consumed internally. The following table highlights the key differences:


Feature	Manuka Honey	Regular Honey
Antibacterial Potency	Higher, due to high levels of Methylglyoxal (MGO) that remain stable when ingested.	Lower, as its primary antibacterial compound (hydrogen peroxide) is less stable and can be diminished by processing.
Prebiotic Effect	Contains fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) that stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.	Lacks the same prebiotic profile, though some raw varieties may offer minor benefits.
Digestive Support	Targeted action against pathogens like H. pylori and C. difficile; soothes inflammation.	General soothing effect, but without the targeted antibacterial strength.
Flavor	Stronger, more earthy and slightly bitter taste.	Milder, sweeter flavor that varies based on floral source.
MGO/UMF Rating	Graded and certified based on MGO and other compounds (UMF), ensuring potency and authenticity.	No specific grading system for internal medicinal potency.
Cost	Generally more expensive due to rarity, certification, and specialized production.	More affordable and widely available.

How to Eat Manuka Honey Effectively

To maximize the benefits of eating Manuka honey, consider the following methods:

For General Wellness: Take one to two teaspoons daily, either on its own or mixed into a warm (not boiling) drink like tea or water. Excessive heat can damage its beneficial enzymes.
For Digestive Issues: For targeted support during digestive flare-ups, increase intake to a teaspoon twice daily, gradually reducing as symptoms improve. You can also try it with probiotic-rich foods like yogurt.
In Your Diet: Use it as a natural sweetener in oatmeal, smoothies, or on toast. The flavor pairs well with stronger-tasting foods.

When purchasing, look for jars with a Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) or MGO rating, as these indicate the honey's certified potency and authenticity. A UMF of 10+ or an MGO of 263+ is generally considered a good therapeutic grade for internal use.

Conclusion: A Powerful Digestive and Immune Ally

Eating Manuka honey offers more than just a sweet treat; it provides a potent blend of antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and prebiotic properties that can significantly benefit your internal health. From balancing the gut microbiome and soothing digestive upset to bolstering the immune system, its unique composition sets it apart from regular honey. By choosing a certified, high-grade Manuka honey and incorporating it mindfully into your diet, you can support your body's natural defenses and promote overall wellness from the inside out.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

For maximum benefits, consume Manuka honey raw. Avoid adding it to boiling hot drinks, as high temperatures can damage its beneficial enzymes. Taking a teaspoon directly or mixing it into warm tea or yogurt is ideal.

A daily dose of one to two teaspoons is often recommended for general wellness and immune support. For targeted relief from digestive issues, some may increase their intake temporarily, but moderation is key.

Yes, some research indicates that the potent antibacterial compound MGO in Manuka honey can inhibit the growth of H. pylori, the bacteria responsible for many stomach ulcers. It also helps soothe the stomach lining's inflammation.

While safe for most adults, infants under 12 months should not consume any type of honey due to the risk of botulism. Those with a bee allergy or diabetes should consult a doctor before consuming.

Manuka honey is considered more beneficial for specific medicinal purposes due to its much higher and more stable concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), giving it superior antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

For general wellness, a UMF 10+ (approx. MGO 300+) is a good choice. For targeted therapeutic use, such as digestive issues, a higher rating of UMF 15+ (approx. MGO 525+) or more may be recommended.

Yes, when you swallow it, Manuka honey coats the throat, providing a soothing layer that reduces irritation. Its natural antibacterial properties can also help combat the bacteria causing the infection.