Mānuka's Superpowers

Exploring the Antifungal Properties of Manuka Honey: Facts and Findings

Krista Bugden

Published at: September 27, 2023
Updated at: December 4, 2024

6 minutes

Executive Summary:

Unlike regular honey, Mānuka honey contains a wealth of bioactive components that support wellness. Its methylglyoxal (MGO) is of particular interest for its beneficial properties.
Mānuka honey's unique nutrients have been shown to inhibit the growth of a wide range of microbes, supporting overall health.
The unique nutrient profile of Mānuka honey makes it a beneficial addition to a healthy lifestyle—especially as it supports a healthy microbiome.

Summary of Key Studies on Mānuka Honey's Properties

Study Location	Organism Tested	Result
University of Auckland	Malassezia furfur	Growth significantly inhibited by Mānuka honey
Malaysia	Candida albicans	High inhibition rates compared to other honeys
In vitro study	Malassezia pachydermatis	Supported performance of other agents

Mānuka Honey: Unraveling Its Unique Qualities

Honey has been used to support health for thousands of years, and now, thanks to modern science, we understand why.

Honey contains over 200 components, making it a naturally rich source of helpful nutrients—many of which exhibit beneficial properties.

Yet, not all honey is created equal. The nutrient profile of honey varies depending on what nectar it is derived from.

Scientific studies have demonstrated that Mānuka honey, derived from the nectar of the Mānuka bush in New Zealand, contains unique nutrients and bioactive compounds that significantly enhance its beneficial properties compared to other types of honey.

Mānuka honey's properties are of particular interest and are drawing the attention of scientists all over the world. So, let's explore these further! What should you know?

The Science Behind Its Unique Properties

Fungi are microscopic organisms that are all around us—yeast, mold, and mushrooms are examples of familiar fungi. Sometimes the spores of fungi can embed themselves in human tissue (from contact or inhalation) and cause irritation.

Mānuka honey is being rigorously studied for its potential as a natural way to support the body's defenses. Its unique components, such as methylglyoxal (MGO), leptosperin, and methyl syringate, are shown to affect microbial cell walls and inhibit growth, offering a promising addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Unlike regular honey, which forms hydrogen peroxide, Mānuka honey contains:

Methylglyoxal (MGO): A naturally occurring bioactive component that supports the body's natural defenses.
Leptosperin and Methyl Syringate: Potent antioxidants that support cellular health.
Oligosaccharides: Helpful prebiotics that help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

The unique properties found in Mānuka honey are of special significance in scientific studies and reviews.

Empirical Studies and Their Findings

Mānuka honey is being studied in various universities worldwide.

University of Auckland: Components found in Mānuka honey were confirmed to inhibit the growth of Malassezia furfur, a yeast that can affect skin health. Compared to a range of other honeys, Mānuka exhibited the greatest beneficial properties.
2016 Study on Mold Strains: Tests confirmed that the nutrients present in Mānuka honey inhibited the growth of 12 out of 13 different strains of mold. Further tests were recommended to determine how to apply these properties effectively.
Support for Other Agents: Mānuka honey's nutrients supported the performance of other agents when used in conjunction to support skin health in animals.
Malaysian Study: Tests done on monofloral honey, including Mānuka honey, confirmed its significant properties. It was noted that Candida albicans was notably affected by the honey’s components.

Practical Applications

While there is still much to learn about the unique composition of Mānuka honey, there are several ways to enjoy its beneficial nutrients to support general well-being.

Supporting Gut Health

Mānuka honey can be consumed to support a healthy gut microbiome. Its prebiotic properties help promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the digestive system. Take a heaped teaspoon (14g) of Mānuka honey daily, either on its own or stirred into your morning tea, coffee, or lemon water.

Enhancing Wellness

Mānuka honey's unique nutrients can be a valuable addition to your daily routine:

Build Your Routine: Start each day with 1 heaping (14g) teaspoon dose.
For Maximum Benefits: Savor it straight, or stir it into your morning beverage.
Boost Your Benefits: Add 1-2 more heaped teaspoons throughout your day as needed.
Consistency is Key: Daily intake helps maintain overall wellness.

Discover Manukora's Premium Mānuka Honey

At Manukora, we understand that the only way to experience the unique and powerful properties present in Mānuka honey is to enjoy the best quality available. Every batch of our honey is tested and authenticated so that what you see on the label (and QR code) is what's inside the jar—Honey With Superpowers™.

We now offer three main grades to suit your needs:

MGO 600+: Superhoney Starter Kit MGO 600+
MGO 850+: Superhoney Starter Kit MGO 850+
MGO 1000+: Superhoney Starter Kit MGO 1000+

Find out which one will suit you best.

Potential Implications for Health and Wellness

The unique nutrients present in Mānuka honey support the fact that a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated. Incorporating Mānuka honey into your daily routine is a natural and effective way to support your body.

Remember that Mānuka honey isn’t a medicine; it is simply a naturally occurring source of nutrition—nutrition that supports your body and enhances your wellness. It shouldn’t be used as a cure or in place of prescribed medication.

Conclusion

The nutrients in Mānuka honey exhibit unique properties that are being studied and explored worldwide. It has the potential to support gut and skin health and maintain a healthy microbiome.

Whether you're looking to experience the exceptional potency of Mānuka Honey MGO 600+, MGO 850+, or MGO 1000+, Manukora offers a range of options to integrate this super honey into your daily routine.

At Manukora, we believe in providing high-quality Mānuka honey that you can trust. Every jar is traceable to its source, ensuring purity and authenticity.

A natural source of energy, beneficial properties, and a powerhouse of antioxidants make Mānuka honey so much more than a delicious treat. It’s a smart addition to a healthy lifestyle and an investment in your overall well-being.

Find out more about the benefits of the unique nutrients present in Mānuka honey and how to enjoy this golden nectar in fun and interesting ways.

FAQs

1. What makes Mānuka honey unique compared to regular honey?

Mānuka honey contains methylglyoxal (MGO), leptosperin, methyl syringate, and oligosaccharides, which give it unique properties, setting it apart from regular honey.

2. How does Mānuka honey support overall wellness?

Studies have shown that Mānuka honey can help inhibit the growth of certain microbes, supporting overall health and wellness. Its unique composition makes it effective in maintaining a healthy microbiome.

3. Are there scientific studies supporting the properties of Mānuka honey?

Yes, several studies, including those at the University of Auckland and in Malaysia, have confirmed Mānuka honey's unique properties, showing its effectiveness against various strains of microbes.

4. Can Mānuka honey be used as a medicine?

Mānuka honey is not considered a medicine but is a natural source of nutrients that support a healthy lifestyle. It should not replace prescribed treatments, and consultation with a healthcare professional is advised for medical conditions.

5. How can Mānuka honey be incorporated into a daily routine?

Mānuka honey can be consumed directly or added to food or beverages. Enjoy a heaping teaspoon daily to support general well-being.

6. What should consumers look for when purchasing Mānuka honey?

It’s important to buy high-quality Mānuka honey that is tested and authenticated. Look for a reliable source like Manukora, which provides a range of MGO concentrations, ensuring the product's purity and potency as indicated on the label and QR code.