Manuka 10+: unique healing effect
Originating from New Zealand, it has reached us via the UK: manuka honey. Not another magic potion of some obscure origin. Instead, a very special honey from down under, with a unique antibacterial effect that enjoys worldwide scientific recognition. Surprised? Just google for 'manuka honey' for a moment. Then we will continue our talk. And yes: manuka honey tastes great in your sauces and marinades or in combination with smoked salmon.
Far, farther, farthest: New Zealand. Completely on the other side of the globe a shrub called manuka thrives. (pronounce as 'Mah-nə-kah'). The shrub makes do with little and is therefore one of the first plants to retake deforested or burned areas. The manuka sometimes grows into a fifteen metre high tree, but usually sticks to the size of the bamboo plant or the fuchsia in your garden.
Antibacterial effect
What is it that makes manuka honey so special? The very dark honey with its butter-like structure has an exceptional antibacterial effect. Now you should know that this is the case for all kinds of honey to a certain extent. Honey contains the glucose oxidase enzyme, which gradually produces small amounts of hydrogen peroxide once it has been absorbed by the body. And as you know, hydrogen peroxide can be bought in bottles at any pharmacy as a disinfectant.
'Super honey'
However, honey also contains the methylglyoxal enzyme. This enzyme does not produce hydrogen peroxide, but has an immediate and direct antibacterial effect. Regular honey contains very small amounts of methylglyoxal ranging from 20 to 50 mg per kg. However, 1 kg of manuka honey contains 800 mg of methylglyoxal. This enzyme is much more resistant to heat, light and ageing than glucose oxidase. The New Zealand 'super honey' therefore retains its antibacterial effect much better and longer.
Healthy and healing
What this means in practice? That a daily portion of manuka honey can increase your resistance considerably. That people eating manuka honey will recover more quickly from e.g. heartburn, stomach ulcers, sore throats, eye infections and digestive disorders. And that manuka honey, processed into an ointment or applied directly, is very helpful to accelerate the healing of wounds, ulcers, burns and skin inflammations. Professor Peter Molan of the Honey Research Unit of the University of Waikato (New Zealand) conducted pioneering research in this field.
In addition, you should not forget that manuka honey is also delicious. Really delicious. Connoisseurs say it tastes a bit like candied orange peel with oak and a touch of nutmeg. Curious? You can find your 375 g Selected by Meli Manuka Honey jar in any upscale supermarket at 7,75 €.
Also available through "Mail order" on this site.