by Sarah Waldrop
Manuka honey is proving to be no ordinary treat. The native New Zealand honey holds many healing remedies that will have you experimenting, mixing and cooking with manuka honey rich potions. You can take a spoonful to soothe your throat in tea, add a layer to toast, or even use it as a face mask.
This dark coloured honey is rich in flavour and can be a bit more expensive than other honey types. This is because manuka honey is a monofloral honey and is only produced by bees that pollinate one species of flower. These busy bees are not only attracted to specifically the manuka flower, but also only come out for a few weeks in the summer whilst the flower is in bloom.
Each jar of manuka honey is categorized on a scale that identifies its antibacterial potency called the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). Honey that is tested and verified to have a level of 10 or more on this scale is referred to as ‘Active’ manuka honey. The ideal UMF levels are between 10 and 15 in manuka honey jars to access the health benefits, so keep a keen look out for those numbers!
Immunity: Manuka honey has high antibacterial levels to keep sore throats, cold sores and other infections away. Having a little in the morning will help build your immunity, keep your energy levels up and prevent a cough or cold from worsening.
Skin: Manuka honey can be used topically as a treatment for many skin conditions such as eczema, scars and burns. You can even transform this delicious treat into a face mask to decrease inflammation or topical agent to soothe sunburns.
Digestion: From bloating, acid reflux to irritable bowel syndrome, manuka honey can aid in calming many uncomfortable stomach pains. Take a spoonful into a mug of tea or hot water for a try.
Supercharge your honey sessions with Steens Raw Manuka Honey 20+ (£32.95), that’s a high potency right there!
For a mid manuka value on a budget, opt for Manuka Doctor Active Manuka Honey 15+ (£22.99).
Now how about this for an ingenious idea. A manuka honey boost on the go, without any fear of risking a sticky mess! Wedderspoon Organic Active Manuka Honey On The Go (£16.99) comes in small and sleek snap release capsules that mean you can carry them with you for a spontaneous addition to a hot tea, yoghurt pot or bread, whenever you like.