During the cold and flu season, everyone has their go to remedies. Some people are obsessed with certain natural cough syrups. Or green juices loaded with ginger. Some swear by chicken noodle soup. Or homeopathic immune boosters. But one of the very best remedies that has gained in popularity over the past few years – for good reason – is Manuka honey. 

What is Manuka Honey?

You’re obviously familiar with honey. But what sets Manuka honey apart?  Named after the bush that the bees that produce this honey pollinate, this New Zealand honey is thicker than regular honey. Unlike other varieties, genuine Manuka honey has a UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating on every bottle. This is similar to SPF rating you see on sunscreens in that it ranks how much of the beneficial properties are in the product to determine if it’s right for you. UMF rating tells you how much of the antibacterial properties are in the jar – the higher the number, the more potent the antibacterial benefits and the more pure the honey.

What are the Benefits?

The benefits of Manuka honey are potent and plentiful. The health benefits of honey in general has been wildly known since ancient times. For Manuka honey, those benefits are ten fold. As stated earlier, it is highly anti bacterial as well as anti microbial. This makes it excellent for wound healing internally and externally.  It is also anti viral, which helps ward off and remedy viral infections. And anti inflammatory, which also helps heal infections and reduce pain and other illnesses. Finally, it is considered a prebiotic, making it excellent for balancing bacteria in your gut.

How can I use it?

All of this information is well and good, but how can you use Manuka honey in your day to day life?

The first way that you can use it is on wounds! Originally an ancient practice, this method has studies to back it up, and the FDA approved Manuka honey wound dressings in 2007. So next time you get a little cut or burn, try some as a topical treatment! (Obviously, serious wounds should always be dealt with by a health care professional.) Some even use the honey in facials and say it improves the look and feel of their skin!

Similarly, ingesting Manuka honey can help with internal wounds. Studies done have shown evidence that it can help heal ulcers and improve oral hygiene by reducing tooth decay. Taking a teaspoonful daily can help, or using it as you would any other honey. Remember, it is much thicker and depending on potency, can taste a little different than regular honey you’re used to. 

Particularly in cold and flu season, the best way to use Manuka honey is to help soothe a sore throat and take advantage of the anti viral and anti bacterial properties. A spoonful in a hot cup of tea is amazing way to ingest it, and some brands even make delicious lozenges! You can buy Manuka honey and similar products at Organic Roots.