Honey
Bees forage on the flowers of the tea tree (Leptospermum scoparium) to make Manuka Honey. Manuka honey looks and tastes much the same as ordinary honey, but it is claimed to have some unique properties.
Antibacterial action
Honey attacks many strains of bacteria, including some that resist common antibiotics such as antibiotic-resistant pseudomonas and golden staph. However, unlike ordinary honeys, in the test tube at least, Manuka honey has also been found to be effective against helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that relates to causes stomach ulcers.
How does it work?
Honey appears to work in two ways: promoting wound healing, and controlling infection.
When most honeys are diluted they release hydrogen peroxide (the same chemical that is in household bleach) which kills bugs. Manuka honey has a different action. It produces some natural chemicals that kill bacteria.
Price
Compared with ordinary honey, Manuka honey is expensive. Prices listed below may vary from place to place.
There are three available grades of Manuku honey. Honey grade is based on the concentration of the active ingredient. Our pricing is for the 16% UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) & 4%. There is also a 10% UMF available only in 375g for around $20.50.
Size
Manuka 16%
Manuka 4%
Ordinary
250g jar $18.75 $6.00 $1.50 500g jar $29.15 $9.00 $2.50 1kg jar $51.20 $16.00 $5.00
However, the high price may be justified. Manuka honey may be very useful for healing and infection control in those instances in hospitals where some bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics.
How to use
Apply directly to wounds Eat bread spread with Manuka honey Swallow honey slowly to ease a sore throat Some honeys can be contaminated with Botulinum spores, which could be a problem for a tiny baby. So don’t give any type of honey to infants under 12 months of age.
Further information
Manuka is available at some chemists and health food stores. It may be a product to keep an eye on for further research.