The Buzz About Manuka Honey and Propolis

Bees have blessed mankind with their honey and propolis for thousands of years, with honey being used topically for wound treatment by Egyptians, Greeks, Romans and Chinese from over 600 years ago. More popularly known now for its antibacterial effects, Manuka honey is a dark mono-floral honey produced from the nectar of flowers of Manuka trees in New Zealand and eastern Australia.^1,2 

The Methylglyoxal (MGO) in Manuka Honey

All the hype around manuka honey centers around the methylglyoxal (MGO) which gives rise to the honey’s antibacterial effects. In fact, the higher the MGO, the stronger its antibacterial activity. It is most popularly known for its ability in treating burns, wounds and ulcers through facilitating tissue growth and wound debridement as well as reducing inflammation.³ That being said, the jar of manuka honey in the kitchen should not be a major part of one’s first aid kit.

Benefits of Manuka Honey

The MGO in manuka honey is nothing without its plethora of phytochemical sidekicks such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds and defensins. They work synergistically with MGO to combat germs and give its antioxidant effect, which protects our cells from free radical damage. This kind of oxidative stress is linked to debilitating conditions such as high cholesterol, heart disease, cancer, arthritis, respiratory diseases, immune deficiency, and other inflammatory conditions.^4,5 As an oral health booster, manuka honey may soothe coughs, sore throats, inflamed gums, and other periodontal conditions.^6,7 Also, it may improve digestive health and ease bacteria-related digestive disorder such as acid reflux, stomach ulcers and stomach aches.⁸ However, note that honey is still an added sugar, hence consumption should be limited.

Manuka Honey Grades: MGO vs UMF

While the benefits are clear, the varying degrees of manuka honey is classified by its MGO or Unique Manuka Factor (UMF). The MGO rating merely states the amount of MGO in honey. Conversely, UMF indicates the quality and authenticity of manuka honey and reflects the amount of tested antibacterial activity via its content of Leptosperin, Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and MGO. The UMF rating is only given to honey tested and verified by a laboratory licensed by Active Manuka Honey Association (AMHA).^9,10

Comparison of MGO and UMF, taken from Manuka Health New Zealand.¹¹ 

What is Bee Propolis?

Bee propolis is a remarkable resin-like substance made by bees to build their hives. Commonly sold in capsules, sprays, topical products, toothpaste, mouthwashes and honey, propolis contains over 300 compounds, most of which are antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and inflammation.^12-14

Benefits of Propolis

Propolis is reported to have activity against bacteria, viruses, fungi and intestinal parasites in the context of oral, skin, gut and vaginal health, making it a great immune booster. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects may help fight chronic conditions such high cholesterol, diabetes, heart diseases and brain-related disorders such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis. In skin health, propolis may aid diabetic and acne wound healing. Interestingly, some studies identify propolis as complementary anti-cancer treatment in suppressing tumor growth.^12-14

Now, thousands of years after its discovery, we still look to the healthy goodness of bee produce. Manuka honey and propolis are excellent health boosters sold in pharmacies for those looking for all-rounder health supplements. Be sure to visit a CARiNG Pharmacy store to learn more!