Why is Manuka Honey a Superfood for Your Skin?
It's been coined the ultimate superfood. But why? Manuka honey is just a honey, right?
Manuka honey benefits for health and beauty have been celebrated for centuries. It was first used by the Maori community in New Zealand in the early 1900s because of its incredible anti-bacterial and healing properties (rumor has it, it can be used as an effective hay fever remedy). Plus, celebrities including Gwyneth Paltrow and Scarlett Johannsson are said to be big fans!
Keep scrolling for the reasons why you should consider stocking your cupboards with the gold elixir that is Manuka honey, and not just for your kitchen, but for your bathroom too!
What is Manuka Honey?
Produced by the bees that pollinate the Manuka bush in New Zealand, Manuka honey is widely regarded as one of the most unique and beneficial forms of honey in the world. There are many Manuka honey benefits, but it’s mainly loved for its antibacterial properties, said to heal sore throats, mend digestive problems, cure infections, and aid gingivitis (more on this later for your skin).
Studies have found that even though it’s not a raw honey – the type typically associated with health benefits – there are many proven Manuka honey benefits. So, it begs the question: are there downsides to using the stuff?
The price tag seems to be the only one, with jars ranging from $15 to $45, and that all depends on the UMF rating.
What is UMF Manuka Honey?
As you may have guessed, it’s a specialist type of Manuka honey. According to the experts, to really see and feel the Manuka honey benefits, you need to buy the proper stuff (sadly, not all honey is created equal). So, before you splash the cash, make sure that you’re getting the real deal. Proper Manuka honey comes from New Zealand and will have a UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating of 10+ or more on its label. Cheaper imitations are likely to be less effective.
For your reference:
- The UMF number refers to the level of anti-bacterial property in the honey at the time of packaging.
- Manuka Honey with a UMF of less than 10 has a low level of activity and may not be effective for some medical conditions.
- The ideal potency is generally considered to be between UMF 10 and 18.
- Don’t go OTT: some have reported sensitivity to Manuka honey above UMF 20 because of its strength.
It’s recommended that to reap the Manuka honey benefits, you should take a dose of about 1 to 2 tablespoons a day. The easiest way to do this is to eat a spoonful straight (although, it’s flavor is intense so test it out first before you dive into the full tablespoon). If it’s not to your liking, you could incorporate it into your meal or daily snack by:
- Spreading it on a slice of toast
- Adding it to your yogurt or oatmeal
- Spooning it into a cup of tea for added sweetness
Manuka Honey Health Benefits
The best uses for Manuka honey range from treating a sore throat, STAPH infections, to applying it topically on your skin! Here are 4 main benefits of manuka honey:
- Healing
Manuka honey’s healing properties make it a great all-round wonder food. It has anti-viral, anti-microbial, and anti-bacterial properties. It can be used to boost the immune system to help fight off illness and to improve skin conditions. It also soothes a sore throat, and can be used externally on cuts, wounds, and ulcers to assist with the healing process!
- Reduce Colds & Sore Throats
Manuka is perfect to treat and shorten the length and severity of a sore throat. It fights bacteria and viruses while also boosting the immune system. It’s incredibly soothing while doing the heavy lifting of reducing the length of your illness; take a spoonful neat, with warm water, or with warm water and lemon juice (not boiling) at the onset of a sore throat to help prevent it taking hold!
- Improves Digestion
Some experts believe that Manuka honey can improve the health of your gut and reduce bloating. Are you searching for a way to reduce inflammation, digestive disorders, abdominal discomfort, or bloating? Manuka can help as it contains a pre-biotic important for nurturing the gut’s good bacteria. This helps the digestive system rebalance itself naturally!
- Boosts Energy
Pure Manuka honey is an ideal staple to give you a buzz when you’re feeling tired. The honey’s high nutrient density makes it a great natural energy booster!
Manuka Honey Benefits for Skin
There is a whole heap of Manuka honey health benefits, but did you know the condiment/healing agent can be used as a beauty product too? It really does it all! Manuka Honey is the perfect natural alternative for curing acne and skin infections by its antibacterial properties. It’s also a natural moisturizer, pulling water from the air in to dry skin to nourish and replenish it with hydration! Not only that, but it can also:
- Fight fine lines and wrinkles
- Heal acne scars
- Fight free radicals
- Soothe and help remedy psoriasis, eczema, shingles, and rosacea
This honey can really do it all. To find out more about manuka honey for your skin, check out Wild Naturals online store, filled to the brim with face, body, and hair products all featuring manuka honey!
