Feret Balm Exploring the Health Benefits of Manuka Honey

Manuka honey, produced by bees that pollinate the Leptospermum scoparium – Manuka bush, stands out due to its extensive health benefits and unmatched natural properties, native to New Zealand and Australia.

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Unique Properties of Manuka Honey

What sets Manuka honey apart is its elevated levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a chemical compound derived from the conversion of dihydroxyacetone (DHA) found in Manuka flower nectar. This high MGO content bestows Manuka honey its powerful antibacterial properties, surpassing those found in regular honey.

The Health Benefits of Manuka Honey

Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration

Thanks to its antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory attributes, Manuka honey is extensively used for wound healing. It creates a moist environment that discourages infections and encourages tissue repair. Studies have shown its effectiveness against antibiotic-resistant strains like MRSA, enhancing recovery in burns and ulcers.

Digestive Health

Manuka honey supports digestive health with its natural antibiotic effects, helping to manage conditions such as small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), low stomach acid, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Its anti-inflammatory nature can alleviate colonic inflammation and improve antioxidant levels in models of colitis.

Oral Health

Effective in preventing plaque accumulation and gingivitis, Manuka honey inhibits detrimental oral bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, making it an excellent tool for maintaining oral hygiene.

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Sore Throat Relief

Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory capabilities make Manuka honey a suitable remedy for sore throats. It can impede the growth of throat-related bacteria like Streptococcus mutans and is used in treating chemotherapy-related throat inflammation.

Acne and Skin Health

Due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, Manuka honey can aid acne treatment by curbing skin bacteria. It hydrates, soothes inflammation, and is a favored skincare ingredient.

Respiratory Health

For individuals with cystic fibrosis, Manuka honey may help manage respiratory infections by inhibiting bacterial growth, including strains like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Burkholderia spp.

Other Potential Benefits

Cancer Prevention: Manuka honey has been found to limit the carcinogenic process and control cancer cell progression.
Gastric Ulcers: It can aid in healing gastric ulcers by reducing inflammation.
IBS and IBD: Beneficial in treating irritable and inflammatory bowel syndromes by reducing inflammation.

Safety and Precautions

While generally safe, consider these precautions when using Manuka honey:

Allergies and Infants

Those with honey or bee allergies should refrain from use. Additionally, avoid giving honey to infants under 12 months due to botulism risks.

Diabetes

Individuals with diabetes should consult a healthcare professional before adding Manuka honey to their diet, given its high sugar content.

Dosage and Using Manuka Honey

The typical recommended dosage ranges from 1 to 2 teaspoons. It can be ingested directly, applied to wounds, or used in skincare. Verify its authenticity through testing by reputable bodies, such as New Zealand’s Ministry of Primary Industries.

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