Honey is a much loved food, and has been a special favourite food of humans for thousands of years. Following the astounding process of its creation is a fascinating journey. While people all over the world have long known about the special nutritional and medicinal properties of some honeys, recent scientific research has documented some valuable health benefits.
Some honeys are no more antibacterial than sugar, while others can be diluted more than 100-fold and still halt the growth of bacteria. One honey in particular is Manuka Honey, from New Zealand. Manuka honey is produced from the flowering Manuka tree, which is native to New Zealand and is similar to the Australian tea tree. Whilst many of us have heard about the antibacterial properties of tea tree oil (melaleuca), oil from the Manuka tree can be up to 30 times more effective as an antibacterial agent, and this effectiveness is also carried over to the honey made exclusively from Manuka flowers. Manuka Honey can also be effective when applied directly to the skin, to help heal insect bites, rashes, burns and small cuts and scratches.
As clinical studies have begun to realise how special Manuka honey is, a grading system has been developed in New Zealand, to indicate to consumers how strong these properties are, in various grades of honey. Only registered users can use this trademark rating (UMF), and this rating shows the strength of the antibacterial properties of the honey. As the exact substance responsible for these properties has not yet been identified, it has been termed ‛Unique Manuka Factor’ (UMF) Honey is available in strengths up to 25+, and it is important to realise that it is not always preferable to go for the highest rating. A honey with a rating of between 10+ and 16+ is adequate to help fight colds, sore throats and give a boost to the immune system, and this is also a safe range to use on minor skin ailments.
* A teaspoon of organic manuka honey, slowly dissolved on the tongue is a great soother for sore throats, great for fighting colds and flu.
* to soothe mouth ulcers, a small amount of manuka honey applied directly can speed up the healing process.
* small nicks or scratches made when shaving can be quickly healed by the application of a little manuka honey
* a soothing skin mask made from manuka honey can help fight acne and pimples, due to its antibacterial properties.
oh and don’t forget that its totally delicious! Enjoy it spread on your toast, in your cup of tea, on your porridge, or on its own.