Manuka honeys sweet benefits

Certain honey from specific plants are more effective than others. Manuka honey that comes from New Zealand Manuka bush is one such example. It has been found to be an effective therapy for digestive complaints ranging from acid reflux,gastritis,diarrhoea,ulcers,H.pylori to fungal infections. It has been used in upper respiratory infections,including chronic sinusitis,rhinitis and allergic symptoms.

All kinds of honey contain hydrogen peroxide which imbues them with antibiotic properties,but Manuka honey exhibits antibacterial activity which is not attributed to hydrogen peroxide. It contains an exceptionally high concentration of a non-peroxide anti-bacterial compound methylglyoxal (MGO),which offers enhanced and unique antibacterial activity to it.

While Manuka honey also has hydrogen peroxide,polyphenols and other beneficial components,the presence of unique non-peroxide activity gives it the Unique Manuka honey Factor (UMFw). It is measured in a standard called phenol standard and is sold with its UMF rating. But it must be remembered that not all Manuka honey have UMF factor. The higher the UMFw factor,the greater the antibacterial potency.

How does it work? It is proposed that UMF exhibits a prebiotic effect and stimulates the growth of good bacteria (probiotics). This good bacterial growth outcompetes disease,causing strains in addition to direct antibacterial effects against disease causing bacteria. This may be beneficial not only in terms of maintaining a healthy gut microbiota,but may provide some protection against development of allergies. This may be the reason that Manuka honey has also been found to reduce unhealthy bacteria in the mouth in dental plaque.

Manuka honey has a long history for safe use. Allergic responses to honey are relatively uncommon and have been attributed mainly to the presence of components of bee origin in the products.

Most honey can be used for food preservation and preventing food spoilage due to their antibacterial properties,however,heating may lower this effect. Interestingly,Manuka honey retains its antibacterial properties even on heating.

These days with abundant use of antibiotics resulting in widespread resistance,alternative anti-microbial strategies are urgently needed. Honey,specially Manuka honey,have attracted considerable attention. Manuka honey has been used successfully in treatment of infections against multi-antibiotic resistant micro-organisms,which may make its use promising in the future.

The unique antibacterial activity of Manuka honey ets it apart as one of natures wonder foods and so does its cost. More research is needed to identify the bioactive components responsible for its benefits and their health implications.