What is Manuka Honey?  Manuka is a unique evergreen tree, native to New Zealand. Its intensely scented flowers bloom in summer and bees absolutely love them. Manuka honey is produced in New Zealand from two plants, both of which are from time to time called Manuka. The most common honey source of these is Leptospermum scoparium, and of the two, is the most commonly called Manuka. The Manuka plants have historically been used by Maori and early European settlers for medicinal purposes, which include use of the bark as a poultice, for colds, for flu, and stomach aches.

Manuka honey has this varying degree of antibacterial activity due to Hydrogen Peroxide (H₂O₂), but has been found to have a further amount of antibacterial activity that is present after the Glucose Oxidase and H₂O₂ have been neutralized with Catalase. This activity is referred to as the Non Peroxide Activity (NPA). Recently the letters UMF ("Unique Manuka Factor") have been privately trademarked in New Zealand (UMF®) to represent a standard of NPA antibacterial activity. Independent laboratory testing determines the UMF value after the honey is packaged. The higher the level of UMF, the higher the level of anti-bacterial benefits. The use of the UMF trademark guarantees the integrity of the product. 

What are the benefits of Manuka Honey? 

• Anti-bacterial properties by actively killing bacteria
• Heal ulcers and upset stomachs
• Regulate intestinal function, alleviating both constipation and diarrhea
• To increase alertness
• Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer
• Used to treat major wounds, cuts, burns, abscesses, skin ulcers
• Soothing sunburn

• Try having a teaspoon to a tablespoon of the honey three to four times a day, ideally one hour before meals and again at bedtime.
• Try to have nothing to drink immediately after having the honey so as not to dilute the honey.
• Having the honey on bread, toast or cracker biscuit holds the honey in the stomach for as long as possible.
• Many people have experienced good results if they have the honey straight from the teaspoon.
• It is pure honey so it does not interfere with regular medications.