Manuka honey is produced in New Zealand and is made from nectar from the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), which has beautiful white or pink flowers. To produce Manuka honey, beekeepers move their bees to areas where Manuka is the predominant vegetation type when the tree starts to bloom, usually from spring to early summer depending on the region in New Zealand.
Manuka honey has gained international recognition for its unique properties because it has high antibacterial activity. Plus, it tastes so good! It can be eaten as is spread throughout the day, in tea, or as an exclusive topping. Honey is an excellent sweetener that also contributes to health.
What can Manuka honey contribute?
- Amino acids, B vitamins (B6, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid), calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc.
- Generally beneficial for colds and soothes sore throats.
- Provides energy.
- Supports digestion and relieves mild digestive discomfort.
- Prevents plaque and gum inflammation.
- Helps with problematic skin, acne, and acne scars during facial treatments.
DIY Facial Masks with Manuka Honey
- 1 tsp Manuka honey (all skin types).
- 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1 tsp rose water (all skin types).
- 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1 tsp lavender water, and 1/2 tsp spirulina powder (all skin types).
- 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1 tsp tea tree water, 1/2 tsp matcha powder (oily skin).
- 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1/2 tsp lemon juice, 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder (all except sensitive skin).
- 1 tsp Manuka honey, 1 tsp rose water, 1/2 tsp turmeric (all skin types but especially mature skin).
Why is Manuka honey expensive?
Manuka honey is unique to New Zealand. It is harder to extract and has a limited harvest period because it is only collected at certain times of the year. However, the unique properties of the honey are understood by consumers worldwide, creating continued high demand despite the high price.
What is UMF?
The UMF logo is recognized worldwide as a standard that identifies and measures the strength of the unique antibacterial activity in Manuka honey. UMF® stands for “Unique Manuka Factor.” The UMF mark is followed by a number indicating the strength of the UMF activity. The higher the UMF, the more potent the product. To be potent enough for medicinal use, it should have a UMF rating of at least 5+.
UMF® is a registered name and trademark of AMHA (Active Manuka Honey Association) and can only be used by licensed users who meet established criteria, including monitoring honey quality. They must have the UMF name clearly indicated on the front label. The honey must be packaged and labeled in New Zealand. The honey must come from a New Zealand company licensed to use the UMF name.
