Honey is a natural ingredient that has long been used as a medicine for a variety of diseases. It has been proven through studies to protect the body from bacteria and is also well – known for its medicinal benefits. Manuka honey is a high – quality honey that hails from New Zealand. It is made by bees that pollinate the flowers of the Leptospermum Scoparium plant, which is also known as the Manuka Bush; which is where the name Manuka honey comes from.
Health Benefits of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey, like most types of honey, comes with a number of health benefits.
1. Improves skin condition
Due to its antibacterial and anti – inflammatory characteristics, Manuka honey can be used to treat skin problems effectively. Its sticky nature can both inhibit bacterial growth as well as prevent skin dryness.
As a result, Manuka honey’s amazing properties allow it to treat skin issues such as acne and eczema since the bacteria that causes acne can be nullified.
To treat pimples, simply apply a little bit of honey to the blemished area and wait a few minutes, before then rinsing it with soap and water. This procedure can be repeated daily to speed up your skin’s healing process.
2. Heal wounds
Similar to how it treats skin blemishes, the antibacterial properties of manuka honey allow it to be used for wound treatment. Manuka honey can relieve the pain from burns and reduce skin inflammation.
On top of that, Manuka honey can treat ulcers and lesions due to its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory abilities.
However, you should always consult a doctor first before using honey on any wounds.
3. Resolving digestive issues
Manuka honey is greatly beneficial for your digestive system. Researchers discovered that Manuka honey can help prevent digestive diseases including IBS, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pain, and irregular bowel movements.
Furthermore, Manuka honey’s anti – bacterial characteristics can aid in subduing digestive problems brought about by stomach acid. Stomach acidity can be controlled and neutralised with regular consumption of this honey.
4. Resolve dental and gum issues
Although Manuka honey is sweet and contains sugar, it is actually very useful for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Its antimicrobial abilities aid in the prevention of plaque formation on the teeth.
Furthermore, gargling with manuka honey can reduce the bleeding that comes with gingivitis or periodontal by 35%. Manuka honey also contains several useful minerals such as zinc, calcium, and phosphorus that play a huge role in tooth restoration.
5. Boost sleep quality
Manuka honey is also very effective in improving your sleep quality. This honey can assist the body in secreting glycogen, which is required for bodily functions during sleep. Improved sleep quality can indirectly help boost the body’s immune system and thus lower the risk of diseases.
6. Beating cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disorder that negatively affects the digestive system and other organs of the body, including mucus – producing cells. This results in excessive mucus production which can result in clogged airways.
Manuka honey can help in preventing the growth of mucus – based bacteria that is responsible for upper respiratory tract infections.
7. Sore throat relief
Another cool benefit of consuming Manuka honey is that it can help slow down the production of bacteria in your throat. This is the bacteria that is often associated with strep infections.
Manuka honey creates a soothing coating on the walls of your throat which reduces irritation and inflammation caused by coughing.
Side Effects of Manuka Honey
In most cases, Manuka honey is perfectly safe for human consumption. However, people with the following health conditions should consult a doctor before consuming Manuka honey:
1. Diabetes and obesity
The sugar content of all types of real honey is pretty high. People with diabetes should consult a doctor before consuming manuka honey since it can increase blood sugar levels. Meanwhile, excessive honey consumption can also cause the body to experience an excessive calorie surplus due to high sugar levels in obese people.
2. Honey intolerance
Although honey is safe to consume, there are some people who are allergic to it. Consuming manuka honey can cause severe and sometimes deadly allergic reactions in these people, so make sure to stay clear of it if you are allergic.
3. Taking certain drugs and poisoning
Honey is not recommended for people who are undergoing / taking specific types of medicines such as anti-inflammatory pills and antibiotics. Some of the chemicals may react badly with honey and cause unwanted side effects.
It should also be noted that honey that has not been processed could still contain particles from beehives, bee feet, wings, and other impurities. These impurities may result in poisoning in people who have extremely weak immune systems and can cause them to go limp.
