What is the best honey for arthritis?

October 12, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the CDC, almost 20% of adults in the U.S. have been diagnosed with arthritis. Finding effective ways to manage the associated pain and inflammation is a top priority for many, and natural remedies like honey are often explored. Understanding what is the best honey for arthritis involves looking at specific types known for potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Summary

This article examines honey's potential benefits for arthritis, detailing specific types like Manuka known for their anti-inflammatory properties. It compares different honey varieties based on their therapeutic compounds and provides practical advice on incorporating honey into an arthritis-friendly diet, emphasizing that it should supplement, not replace, medical treatment.

Key Points

Manuka Honey is a top contender: Research indicates that high-grade Manuka honey is particularly potent due to its high concentration of Methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound with strong anti-inflammatory effects.
Inflammation is the target: Honey's ability to help with arthritis stems from its flavonoid and polyphenol content, which acts as antioxidants to combat the chronic inflammation characteristic of the condition.
Look for high-quality product: To ensure you are getting a therapeutic-grade product, look for Manuka honey with a UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor) rating of 15+ or higher.
Other bee products show promise: Royal jelly and propolis also contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds, although the clinical evidence for their effect on arthritis is less robust than for Manuka honey.
Incorporate into an anti-inflammatory diet: The best way to use honey for arthritis is as part of an overall anti-inflammatory diet, such as mixing it with cinnamon or adding it to smoothies and dressings.
Complement, don't replace, medical treatment: Honey is not a cure for arthritis and should be used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional medical treatments, not as a replacement.
Consult a healthcare provider: It is crucial to consult a doctor or rheumatologist before adding honey or any new supplement to your diet, especially if you have conditions like diabetes.
Avoid heating to preserve benefits: To retain the therapeutic properties, consume honey raw and avoid adding it to very hot foods or drinks.

The Science Behind Honey and Arthritis

Chronic inflammation is a key driver of arthritis symptoms, leading to pain, stiffness, and joint damage. Certain types of honey contain bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which possess natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These components may help combat the oxidative stress linked to inflammation in the joints.

Manuka honey, in particular, has garnered significant scientific attention for its powerful therapeutic effects. Sourced from the Manuka tree in New Zealand and Australia, it contains high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its unique antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Manuka Honey and its Unique Properties

Numerous studies, including some involving human participants, have explored Manuka honey's potential role in managing arthritis symptoms. Research on both osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) suggests that regular consumption can help reduce pain and swelling. In one clinical trial, participants with RA who applied Manuka honey topically experienced improvements in pain and stiffness. Its chondroprotective activity, which helps prevent cartilage breakdown, is also supported by preclinical data.

However, it is essential to purchase high-grade Manuka honey to ensure a potent concentration of these beneficial compounds. Look for jars with a Unified Manuka Factor (UMF) grade of 15+ or higher, which guarantees its purity and strength.

Other Honey Types and Related Supplements

While Manuka honey is often highlighted, other varieties and related bee products also offer potential benefits for arthritis sufferers. For instance, some honeys from stingless bees have shown promising anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in preclinical research. Additionally, royal jelly, a gelatinous substance produced by worker bees, contains bioactive substances with anti-inflammatory effects that may be relevant to conditions like RA, although more robust human clinical trials are needed. Propolis, a resin-like material used by bees, is also being investigated for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

A Comparison of Honey Types and Bee Products for Arthritis


Feature	Manuka Honey	Royal Jelly	Propolis
Primary Bioactive Compound	Methylglyoxal (MGO), Flavonoids	Major Royal Jelly Proteins (MRJPs), Fatty acids, Flavonoids	Flavonoids, Polyphenols
Research Support (for Arthritis)	Significant preclinical and human trial data for anti-inflammatory effects.	Some preliminary preclinical and small-scale human studies, but more is needed.	Shows anti-inflammatory properties, but requires further human clinical research for arthritis.
Primary Mechanism	Inhibits inflammatory pathways, reduces oxidative stress.	Modulates immune function and reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines.	Scavenges free radicals, reduces inflammation.
Potency Indicator	UMF grading system (UMF™ 15+ or higher recommended).	No standardized grading system for potency related to arthritis.	Variable potency, with standardized extracts available.
Form of Consumption	Oral (spoonful, tea), Topical.	Oral (supplements, mixed with food).	Oral (drops, capsules), Topical (ointment).
Considerations	Not a sole treatment, may increase blood sugar, high cost.	Limited high-quality human evidence, composition varies.	Potential for allergies, limited human research for arthritis.

How to Incorporate Honey into Your Diet

For those considering honey as a complementary therapy, integrating it into your diet in an anti-inflammatory-friendly way is key. Avoiding high-temperature cooking is crucial, as heat can degrade honey's beneficial compounds.

Here are some simple and effective ways to use honey:

Mix with Cinnamon and Turmeric: A popular combination for anti-inflammatory support. Mix honey with cinnamon and/or turmeric into a cup of warm water or herbal tea.
Sweeten Oatmeal: Instead of sugar, stir raw honey into a bowl of oatmeal. You can also add nuts and berries for extra antioxidant benefits.
Drizzle on Fruit: A simple and delicious way to get antioxidants is to drizzle honey over a fresh fruit salad, especially one with anti-inflammatory berries.
Create Salad Dressings: Mix honey with extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and other spices to make a healthy, anti-inflammatory salad dressing.
Post-Workout Recovery: Some studies suggest that honey can help the body recover after exercise, which can be beneficial for managing arthritis. Add it to a recovery smoothie with anti-inflammatory ingredients.

Lifestyle Changes and Medical Consultation

While incorporating a natural supplement like honey can be part of a holistic approach, it should not be considered a cure or a replacement for established medical treatments. A healthy lifestyle, including regular, moderate exercise and a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods (like fatty fish and leafy greens), is fundamental for managing arthritis.

Before adding new supplements, it is always wise to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have pre-existing conditions like diabetes or are sensitive to bee products.

Conclusion

For individuals exploring natural remedies to help manage their arthritis symptoms, Manuka honey emerges as a strong contender due to its well-documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. While other honey varieties and bee products show promise, the body of scientific evidence supporting Manuka is the most compelling. By choosing a high-grade product and integrating it thoughtfully into an overall anti-inflammatory diet and lifestyle, honey can serve as a supportive tool alongside traditional medical care. Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure it's a suitable option for your individual health needs.

For more detailed information on the health benefits of honey and its bioactive compounds, you can refer to the National Institutes of Health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Manuka honey's primary benefit for arthritis comes from its high levels of Methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound with potent anti-inflammatory effects, and other polyphenols and flavonoids that act as antioxidants to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the joints.

While Manuka honey is the most studied and best-supported for its arthritis-related benefits due to its high MGO content, other honey varieties and bee products like royal jelly also possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may be helpful. However, Manuka honey has the strongest evidence base.

You can consume Manuka honey orally by taking it directly, mixing it into warm (not hot) tea, or using it as a sweetener for oatmeal or fruit salads. Consuming it raw helps preserve its therapeutic compounds.

Honey is generally safe for most people in moderation, but those with diabetes should be mindful of its sugar content and impact on blood glucose levels. People with bee or honey allergies should avoid it. It is not a substitute for prescribed medical treatment.

Some anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies have explored topical application of honey for arthritis. However, most scientific evidence focuses on oral consumption for systemic effects. While not harmful, oral intake is generally recommended for therapeutic benefits.

Manuka honey is not a cure for arthritis and should not replace conventional medical treatments. It is best viewed as a complementary therapy that, alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle, may help alleviate some symptoms like pain and stiffness due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

There is no standard medical recommendation regarding specific amounts of honey for arthritis. A healthcare provider can offer personalized advice, especially if you have other health conditions.

Mixing honey with ingredients like cinnamon or turmeric, which are also known for their anti-inflammatory properties, can potentially create a synergistic effect. This combination is common in traditional remedies and can be a flavorful way to incorporate these beneficial compounds into your diet.