Executive Summary:
- Antimicrobial refers to substances that kill or inhibit microorganism growth, while antibacterial refers specifically to substances that kill or prevent bacterial growth.
- Various types of honey have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties thanks to the various nutrients they contain.
- Manuka honey stands out for its remarkable antibacterial properties, courtesy of its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO).
- Enjoy Manuka honey as part of your daily routine using our practical tips.
Antibacterial vs. Antimicrobial: Honey’s Role Explained
Antibacterial and antimicrobial are terms frequently used interchangeably. However, they aren’t one of the same.
Interestingly, honey contains antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities thanks to its beneficial nutrients. While other types of honey have similar properties, Manuka honey stands out for its beneficial nutrients, which bring the best of both worlds.
If you’re curious about these specific properties in Manuka honey, keep reading. Below, we dig into what these two terms mean and what nutrients in Manuka honey contribute to these effects.
Defining Antibacterial and Antimicrobial
Antibacterial is a term used for a substance that kills bacteria or prevents their growth. Meanwhile, antimicrobial is a broader term that includes substances that destroy or inhibit the growth of various microorganisms, especially those that cause diseases.
The microorganisms that fall under the antimicrobial scope can include bacteria but may also include viruses, fungi, and parasites. In other words, while antibacterial focuses specifically on bacteria, antimicrobial is a much broader term that encompasses other microorganisms.
For instance, alcohol and hydrogen peroxide are common antimicrobials. In contrast, antibiotics like penicillin are common antibacterials. Additionally, both can be found in various household products, including soaps, detergents, disinfectants, and other cleaning products.
The Science of Honey’s Properties
Honey has antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities due to several unique factors. First, it is high in sugar and low in water, which creates a hypertonic environment that inhibits microbial growth. Honey also has a low pH, which isn’t hospitable to many pathogens.
Furthermore, honey contains hydrogen peroxide. This compound is produced in honey through a process involving an enzyme called glucose oxidase, which bees add to the nectar. When honey is diluted, this enzyme produces hydrogen peroxide from glucose. Yet, it’s worth noting that this compound is found in honey in very small amounts, which wouldn’t be harmful to most humans (and why many of us can enjoy this delicious liquid gold!).
Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a potent antibacterial component found in honey and found in higher substantial amounts in certain types of honey, like Manuka honey. Its presence can inhibit bacterial growth, supporting overall health and wellness.
Manuka Honey’s Unique Position
Manuka honey is often discussed in the context of its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Much of this discussion stems from its incredible MGO content, as it can contain up to 100 times more MGO than other types of honey.
Various studies demonstrate the remarkable antibacterial activity in Manuka honey, which is substantially higher than non-Manuka honey. On the antimicrobial side of the story, Manuka honey has been shown to have antimicrobial activity against various pathogenic bacteria, such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).
The impressive MGO levels in Manuka honey stem from the nectar used to create the honey, which bees collect from the Manuka tea tree. This tree, native to New Zealand, produces flowers that contain high concentrations of dihydroxyacetone (DHA). When the bees send the nectar through the honey-making process, the DHA becomes MGO via dehydration, a core component of this process.
Practical Uses of Manuka Honey
Health-conscious individuals who want to enjoy the general wellness support and delicious flavor profile of Manuka honey can do so in various ways. It’s an incredibly versatile treat, making for a delightful addition to various snacks and meals, including:
- Drizzled over a bowl of fresh fruit, granola, and Greek yogurt for a protein-packed breakfast
- Stirred into a cup of tea or coffee as a yummy sweetener
- Mixed into a no-bake energy ball recipe as a binding sweetener
- Drizzled over ice cream for a sweet dessert
- Blended into a power green or fresh fruit smoothie for a kick of sweetness
- Brushed over freshly roasted vegetables as a glaze
- Combined with spices to create a sweet and spicy marinade for meats or vegan options
- Brushed over freshly roasted meats, such as a beautifully cooked filet of salmon
There is one important note you should always keep in mind when cooking with Manuka honey. High temperatures degrade the natural and beneficial nutrients that this liquid gold has to offer. Thus, it’s always best to add it after your food or beverage has cooled.
However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t incorporate it into hot foods, like freshly roasted salmon or a toasty cup of tea. On the contrary, it means you simply need to add it at the end. So, if you use it as a glaze for salmon, brush it on right before serving and after the salmon is cooked. If you stir it into a cup of tea, let your beverage cool for a minute or two before stirring it in. This way, you can enjoy the mouthwatering flavor while also ensuring you obtain all the goodness this honey contains!
Enjoy Honey’s Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Qualities
Whether enjoyed for its general wellness support or its mouthwatering flavor profile, Manuka honey holds a special place in the hearts of many. It’s the perfect addition to any daily routine, adding a bit of sweetness to your life and day!
The antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities of Manuka honey are only the tip of the iceberg. This golden treat has much more to offer, courtesy of its intriguing nutritional profile. Explore more about Manuka honey’s benefits.
Curious about diving headfirst into the world of Manuka honey? Consider integrating Manukora’s high-quality products into your daily wellness routine. From our MGO 850+ to stick packets, Manukora has something for every honey lover.
Sources
Antibacterial activity of Manuka honey and its components: An overview
Health Benefits of Manuka Honey as an Essential Constituent for Tissue Regeneration
