Natural Remedies: Manuka Honey

One of my very favorite superfoods, Manuka honey has become a part of my daily routine – a couple of teaspoons with warm water, apple cider vinegar, lemon and turmeric are a big part of my recipe for wellness.

Produced on New Zealand’s Coromandel Coast by bees that pollinate the native Manuka bush, this live honey’s beneficial properties make it unlike any other. It is super healing, anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, and has been shown effective in providing relief for everything from common viruses, to upset stomach, to damaged, problem skin.

Some tips for buying and using this healing honey:

When purchasing Manuka honey, it’s very important to look for and pay close attention to the Unique Manuka Factor, or UMF on the label. This number is a regulated, trademarked way of identifying pure, natural Manuka honey and the level of antibiotic properties associated with it. UMF’s range from 10+ all the way to 25+, the higher the number, the higher the potency (and consequently, cost attached).

As mentioned, Manuka is a live honey, so just like miso, it is important not to overheat. Also, as an FYI, Manuka does have its own distinct flavor – rich and earthy, it can take some getting used to, but it has become a taste that I love. XXJKE