Honey is a natural sweetener that has been used for thousands of years as a food and medicine. It is a complex mixture of sugars, enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that offer various health benefits.
One of the primary benefits of honey is its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to treat and prevent infections, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing. Studies have shown that honey can be effective against a range of bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains, and can help to boost the immune system.
Honey is also a rich source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Honey has also been shown to improve digestion, soothe sore throats and coughs, and promote restful sleep.
The use of honey as a natural sweetener can help to reduce the consumption of refined sugar, which is associated with a range of negative health effects. Overall, honey is a delicious and nutritious food that can offer numerous health benefits when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Raw Honey
Raw honey is a type of honey that has not been pasteurized or filtered, and therefore retains all of its natural enzymes, antioxidants, and nutrients. It is harvested straight from the beehive and can include bits of beeswax, propolis, and pollen.
The production process of raw honey involves extracting the honey from the honeycomb, straining it to remove any debris, and bottling it for sale. Raw honey is often sold in its crystallized form, which is a natural process that occurs over time and does not affect the quality or nutritional value of the honey.
There are many different varieties of raw honey available, each with its own unique flavor and nutritional profile. Some popular varieties include: clover honey, wildflower honey, acacia honey, and buckwheat honey.
The flavor and nutritional content of raw honey depend on the types of flowers that the bees visited to collect nectar. For example, clover honey has a mild, sweet flavor, while buckwheat honey has a dark, rich flavor and is high in antioxidants. The different varieties of raw honey offer a range of health benefits and can be used in a variety of ways, from sweetening tea to enhancing the flavor of baked goods.
Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is a type of honey that is produced by bees that collect nectar from the Manuka bush, which is native to New Zealand. The production process of Manuka honey is similar to that of other types of honey, with the exception that it comes from a specific plant source. The nectar from the Manuka bush produces a honey that is darker in color and has a stronger, more distinctive flavor than other types of honey.
Manuka honey is known for its unique properties and health benefits. It contains a high level of antibacterial activity due to the presence of a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which is produced by the bees that collect nectar from the Manuka bush. MGO is a natural antibacterial agent that can help to fight infections and promote healing. Manuka honey has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective remedy for sore throats, coughs, and other respiratory ailments.
Manuka honey is graded on a scale of 0 to 1000+ based on its MGO content. This is a measure of its antibacterial activity. The higher the MGO content, the more potent the honey is in terms of its antibacterial properties.
A rating of 100+ indicates that the honey has a minimum of 100mg of MGO per kilogram, while a rating of 1000+ indicates that the honey has a minimum of 1000mg of MGO per kilogram. The grading system allows consumers to choose a Manuka honey that is suited to their specific health needs and preferences
Differences: Raw Honey VS Manuka Honey
The debate between raw honey and Manuka honey is a popular topic in the world of health and wellness. Both types of honey have gained a reputation for their health benefits and unique properties, but they differ in several ways.
Properties and Health Benefits
Raw honey is a natural, unprocessed honey that contains enzymes, antioxidants, and other beneficial compounds that are destroyed during processing. It is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments.
Manuka honey, on the other hand, is known for its high levels of antibacterial activity due to the presence of MGO. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used to treat respiratory infections, wound healing, and digestive issues. While both types of honey offer health benefits, Manuka honey's antibacterial properties are particularly noteworthy and set it apart from other types of honey.
Price and Availability
Manuka honey is generally more expensive than raw honey due to its limited availability and unique properties. It can only be produced in specific regions of New Zealand and is subject to strict quality control measures to ensure its purity and authenticity.
Raw honey, on the other hand, is widely available and can be sourced from various regions around the world. Its price varies depending on the type and quality of honey.
Which One to Choose?
If you're looking to buy the best honey in NZ online, it's important to consider sourcing it organically. Raw honey is a natural and holistic option that offers a range of health benefits, while Manuka honey's unique properties make it a more potent and effective remedy for certain health issues. The choice between raw honey and Manuka honey ultimately depends on individual preferences and health needs.
If cost is a concern, raw honey may be a more affordable option.
If antibacterial properties are a priority, then Manuka honey may be the better choice.
It is important to note that not all Manuka honey is created equal, and consumers should look for organically sourced products that are certified and graded to ensure their quality and purity.