Everybody knows that honey is the perfect ham glaze or sweetener to your lemon flu drink. While its food uses are infinite, most people are unaware of the sticky stuff’s health benefits. From wound healing to skin care, read on to find out about the healing properties of Manuka Honey.

 Oral Health

It may go against traditional thinking of ‘sweet stuff is bad for your teeth’ but Manuka Honey is a useful tool in promoting dental health. The high mineral content, calcium, phosphorous and zinc in the honey helps to build strong teeth that resist tooth decay, fight bad breath and help to prevent gum decay. Other than that, a study conducted by the University of Otago found that eating Manuka honey resulted in a decrease in plaque formation of up to 35%.

Sore Throats

We’ve all heard it before when the dreaded flu hits – ‘have a lemon and honey drink’. Aside from tasting good, honey is good for sore throats – soothing the lining of the throat and decreasing discomfort and irritation. Honey’s antiviral and antibacterial properties also help to reduce inflammation and attack the bacteria that causes throat pain.

Heals Cuts and Burns

Since ancient times, honey has been used to treat burns, sores and wounds. Manuka honey is exceptionally good for this due to its higher antimicrobial effect – aiding with disinfecting wounds, amplifying the regeneration of tissue and decreasing pain in patients suffering from burns. Remember don’t use regular raw honey as an option for wound care, as this could potentially spread infection rather than prevent it.

Treat Acne

Acne is usually caused by hormonal changes but can also be triggered by stress, a poor diet or bacteria growth when pores are clogged. The antimicrobial properties of Manuka honey, when used in combination with a low-pH product, can be used as a part of a skin care regime to ensure that the skin can be kept free of bacteria which aides in the healing process.

Sugar Alternative

A lot of people tend to use honey as a sugar substitute but is it really healthier for you? Packed full of minerals and vitamins, Manuka honey is a natural sweetener that is only subject to minimal heating which enables it to retain much of its natural goodness. These include its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which aren’t found in sugar that has zero nutritional value. Honey is also actually sweeter than sugar, so this means we use a lot less of it.