Manuka Honey and Your Health

What is Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey is a special type of honey produced in New Zealand from the nectar of the manuka tree. It is particularly dark and viscous with a unique, strong flavour which is often described as being aromatic, rich and complex.

Manuka is one of the most nutrient dense honeys in the world. It is renowned for its potent antibacterial and antioxidant properties. In fact, it has been used to clear up infections and topical wounds. This unique type of honey also has an anti-inflammatory action that can help ease pain and inflammation.

The special antibacterial compound found in Manuka honey is known as MGO. The higher the concentration of this component in the honey, the stronger the antibacterial effect. The potency of Manuka honey is rated on a Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) scale. Honey with a rating of UMF 10+ is considered therapeutic.

Research has shown that Manuka honey is effective in treating conditions such as eczema and dermatitis. It can also help soothe coughs and sore throats as well as being beneficial for digestive health.

Steens Manuka Honey

Steens Manuka Honey is raw, unpasteurised Manuka honey produced in New Zealand. Most Manuka honey is heated during production to prevent it from fermenting and make it easier to package, this destroys a lot of its natural flavours and beneficial nutrients.

Steens believe that nature knows best and maintain temperatures that occur naturally in the beehive during processing. Steens then controls fermentation in the honey by strictly controlling its moisture level. This means that Steens put a lot more time and care into their product in order to ensure its quality.

This special procedure means that Steens honey has:

• A high protein profile
• Better nutrient content
• Natural properties that help with digestion
• A natural, thick texture

The Anytime Range:

Steens Anytime Range Multifloral Honey is ideal for keeping in your cupboard. It works great as a natural sweeter or as a substitute to sugar that adds to your everyday wellness routine.

Try it out in your tea, as a substitute to sugar or syrups in your cooking and baking or in one of Steens easy and wholesome recipes.

The Daily Range:

Steens Daily Range has a high UMF rating. It is perfect as a daily nutritional supplement to support your immune system.

Try it by the spoonful or add it to porridge, smoothies, cereals, toast or over fruit. Make sure that you do not heat this honey above 40ºC in order to preserve its beneficial properties.

The Targeted Range:

Steens Targeted Range has an even higher UMF rating. This range is ideal for those with specific health goals. It is best for skin care, minor wounds, cold sores, digestion and sinus care.

Take 1 teaspoon of Steens Targeted Range UMF20+ Manuka in the morning and another before bed. You can also use this honey as a replacement for refined sugar.

Apart from its culinary uses, Steens Manuka Honey can also be used in DIY face masks and as a topical skin treatment.

Learn more about Steens from their website, Facebook page and Instagram.