Question: What’s the secret behind Legolas’ shiny locks, the Maoris’ fortitude and the ALL BLACKS 2015 Rugby World Cup victory?
Answer: Manuka Honey! (well... maybe!)
Produced by bees that pollinate the New Zealand Manuka tree, its honey is thought to be the nectar of the Gods that reside high on Mount Cook. Its antibacterial qualities have kept them sniffle-free (and immortal) through a millennia of cold seasons.
What’s so special about this honey (other than its steep price tag)? Well, let me get my nerd hat on for a second: Like most honeys, Manuka contains methylglyoxal (MG). This antibacterial compound makes it a natural antibiotic that locals have relied on for ages to heal cuts or burns. MG is found in most honeys, but usually only in very small doses. The higher potency in Manuka makes it a much stronger antibacterial warrior.
Make sure to pay attention to the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) levels of your honey indicating the purity and quality. The higher, the healthier, the pricier: if the UMF is lower than +10, don’t bother and go with a local product. UMF 10-15 is considered ‘useful’ and +15 offers superior high grade levels of health supporting benefits and will make you break out in a spontaneous Haka.
It’s earthy, herbaceous aroma tastes wonderful in tea, over yogurt or a slice of bread.
- Kirstin