Executive Summary
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English beekeeper Mary Bumby introduced bees to New Zealand in 1839, producing the first Manuka honey.
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Long before honey production, the Manuka tea tree had cultural significance for the indigenous Maori people of New Zealand, who used it for medicine, food, and tools.
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The Maori people referred to the Manuka tea tree as "treasure" or "taonga.".
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Manuka honey gained global recognition in the 1980s after the publishing of scientific research detailing MGO's potent antibacterial properties.
Manuka Honey: From New Zealand to Your Table
Manuka honey is no ordinary honey. It comes from the flowers of the Manuka tea tree, a plant that grows in the clean, untouched areas of New Zealand.
However, the history of Manuka honey is just as rich and original as the taste of this golden nectar itself. From its birthplace and traditional uses to its undeniable emergence as a superfood, this article dives into the vast and rich history of Manuka honey.
"From the untouched landscapes of New Zealand, Manuka honey brings nature's best to your table—pure, raw, and full of benefits."
The Birthplace of Manuka Honey
Manuka Honey's story began with the introduction of bees to New Zealand. In 1839, Mary Bumby, an English beekeeper, brought the first hives to the country and placed them on the North Island's East Coast.
This region was rich in Manuka tea trees, and it's believed that the first honey made in New Zealand came from these trees.
But the Manuka tea tree has a story of its own. Long before bees arrived, the Maori people of New Zealand used the tree in many ways.
Its strong and resilient nature made it valuable, and it was an essential part of their daily life.
The Manuka tea tree is unique to New Zealand and parts of Australia, thriving even in harsh conditions like droughts or wildfires.
Its nectar is what makes Manuka honey so special, as it contains unique compounds not found in other types of honey.
"The Manuka tea tree, found only in New Zealand and parts of Australia, is the heart of this super honey's unique qualities."
Traditional Knowledge and Use of the Manuka Tree
The Maori people arrived in New Zealand between 1320 and 1350, bringing with them their deep respect for nature.
They considered the Manuka tea tree a "taonga," meaning treasure, and used it in many aspects of their daily lives.
For the Maori, the Manuka tree was more than just a plant. They used its wood to craft tools, weapons, and even roofing.
Its leaves and bark were valued for their wellness-supporting properties, and its versatility made it an essential part of their culture
When Europeans settled in New Zealand, they learned about the many uses of the Manuka tree from the Maori. The name "tea tree" even comes from the tradition of brewing its leaves into tea.
"Centuries before the world discovered Manuka honey, the Maori valued the Manuka tree for its strength, resilience, and versatility."
The Global Rise of Manuka Honey
"Thanks to its unique MGO content, Manuka honey has become a trusted choice for supporting wellness worldwide."
Manuka honey has gained worldwide recognition for its unique qualities. One of its key compounds, methylglyoxal (MGO), is known for its antibacterial properties, which support general wellness and immune health.
In the 1980s, research highlighting the antibacterial effects of MGO brought Manuka honey into the global spotlight. By the 1990s, strict quality standards were introduced, requiring Manuka honey to undergo testing by independent organizations.
This helped consumers trust that they were purchasing genuine, high-quality honey.
"Strict testing ensures every jar of Manuka honey is authentic so that you can enjoy its benefits with confidence."
Manukora: Upholding the Manuka Honey Tradition
Manukora's journey began in 1998 with Bryce Hooton, our founding beekeeper, whose care and dedication set the foundation for our ethical practices.
Despite being blind, Bryce paid close attention to every step, ensuring that nature led the process. He believed in letting the bees thrive in their natural environment, only harvesting the honey when it was ready.
Today, we continue Bryce's legacy with what we call The Art of Ethical Beekeeping.
This means prioritizing the well-being of bees and their habitat while maintaining the natural balance of our planet.
We never move our hives, allowing the bees to do what they do best without interference.
By following these practices, Manukora produces "Honey With Superpowers™" that retains all its potent nutrients.
This ensures the highest quality Manuka honey and keeps our bees happy and healthy, supporting the ecosystems we all rely on.
"Discover your perfect MGO strength and experience why Manuka honey has become a global favorite for wellness."
The Sweet Future: Manuka Honey's Legacy Continues
Manuka honey has become a beloved addition to homes worldwide. Whether you enjoy it straight from the spoon, as a topping, or mixed into tea, this "super honey" fits effortlessly into any lifestyle.
With its rich history and unique nutrients like MGO, Manuka honey offers more than just great taste. It supports immunity, digestive health, and overall wellness, making it a trusted choice for many.
At Manukora, we're proud to continue this legacy with our carefully crafted selections, including high-strength options like MGO 850+ and MGO 1000+. Each jar reflects our commitment to producing "Honey With Superpowers™".
Curious about which Manuka honey is best for you? Explore our range of products, or take our MGO quiz to find the perfect fit.
With every spoonful, you're not just enjoying a delicious treat—you're experiencing the care and tradition that make Manukora's Manuka honey truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I verify the quality of Manuka honey?
Look for trusted certifications like UMF or MGO ratings on the label. Manukora offers QR codes on its jars for traceability and potency verification.
Can I use Manuka honey in cooking or baking?
Avoid extremely high temperatures such as with cooking or baking, as heat can reduce its beneficial properties. Instead, use it as a topping or mix it into warm beverages. It is completely fine to use in hot water, once it has cooled from boiling.
What are some creative ways to use Manuka honey?
Try adding it to smoothies, drizzling over fruits, or mixing it into yogurt for a natural boost of flavor and nutrients.
Is Manuka honey environmentally friendly?
Manukora prioritizes ethical beekeeping and sustainable practices, ensuring the health of bees and their habitats while producing high-quality honey.
How should I store Manuka honey?
Keep Manuka honey in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve its natural properties.
Can Manuka honey help with general wellness?
Yes, Manuka honey contains natural compounds that support overall wellness when included as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Conclusion
Manuka honey is more than just a sweet treat—it's a product of nature, tradition, and care. From its origins in New Zealand to becoming a global favorite, this "Honey With Superpowers™" continues to bring wellness and enjoyment to people everywhere.
Whether you're seeking its unique benefits or love its rich flavor, Manuka honey is a timeless addition to any lifestyle. With every jar of Manukora, you're not just tasting honey—you're experiencing the legacy of ethical beekeeping and pure, natural goodness.
Sources:
Mānuka. A honey of a plant. | New Zealand Story
