Honey has been treasured for its natural sweetness and medicinal properties for thousands of years. Among the various types of honey, one variety stands out for its unique and potent healing abilities—Manuka MGO honey. Derived from the nectar of the Manuka tree, native to New Zealand and parts of Australia, this honey is not only a sweetener but a powerful natural remedy. What sets Manuka honey apart from other varieties is its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound that gives it its potent antibacterial and healing properties. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the healing benefits of Manuka MGO honey, understand how it works, and learn how you can incorporate it into your daily routine for enhanced wellness.
What is MGO in Honey?
MGO, or methylglyoxal, is a naturally occurring compound found in some types of honey, but it’s particularly abundant in Manuka honey. This compound is responsible for Manuka honey’s antibacterial and healing properties, making it a standout choice for those seeking natural remedies. The level of MGO in honey can vary significantly, and the higher the MGO content, the more potent the honey’s healing abilities. The MGO level is now often used as a measure of quality in Manuka honey, with the number reflecting the concentration of methylglyoxal.
Manuka honey with high MGO levels is particularly effective for healing wounds, improving digestive health, boosting immunity, and fighting off infections. It’s no wonder that Manuka MGO honey has gained recognition not only in natural health circles but also in mainstream medicine for its wide range of therapeutic applications.
Healing Properties of MGO Honey
1. Antibacterial Power
One of the most celebrated properties of MGO honey is its potent antibacterial effect. Unlike regular honey, which may have mild antibacterial properties due to its natural hydrogen peroxide content, MGO honey remains effective even when the hydrogen peroxide breaks down. This is due to the stable presence of methylglyoxal.
Studies have shown that MGO honey can fight off a range of harmful bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (the bacteria responsible for staph infections) and Helicobacter pylori (associated with stomach ulcers). This makes it an ideal natural remedy for treating bacterial infections, both externally on the skin and internally in the body. In particular, MGO honey has been recognized for its effectiveness in treating wounds, burns, and skin infections, often outperforming conventional treatments.
2. Wound Healing and Skin Health
MGO honey’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent option for wound care. Research shows that applying MGO honey to wounds can help speed up the healing process, prevent infection, and reduce inflammation. When applied to the skin, the honey forms a protective barrier that keeps out harmful bacteria while promoting the regeneration of new tissue.
This makes MGO honey useful not only for healing minor cuts and scrapes but also for more serious wounds like ulcers, burns, and surgical wounds. Many hospitals and clinics around the world now use medical-grade Manuka honey dressings to treat chronic wounds, particularly in patients with compromised immune systems or antibiotic-resistant infections.
Additionally, MGO honey can help with common skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritated skin, while its antibacterial action helps reduce the presence of harmful bacteria that can exacerbate these conditions. For acne sufferers, applying a thin layer of MGO honey to the affected area can reduce inflammation and promote clearer skin over time.
3. Digestive Health
Beyond its topical uses, MGO honey is also a powerful tool for promoting digestive health. The antibacterial properties of MGO help to balance gut bacteria, potentially reducing the growth of harmful pathogens in the digestive tract. This can help with conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and even stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.
Many people use MGO honey to soothe digestive discomfort, reduce bloating, and promote overall gut health. Taking a spoonful of MGO honey daily or mixing it into warm tea can help to balance the digestive system, particularly when dealing with infections or inflammation in the gut.
4. Boosting the Immune System
Consuming MGO honey regularly can provide a significant boost to your immune system. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties work together to strengthen the body’s defenses against a wide variety of pathogens. The natural enzymes in MGO honey also contain antioxidants, which help to neutralize free radicals and protect the body from oxidative stress—a key factor in aging and chronic disease.
Whether you’re looking to fend off a cold or strengthen your body’s overall resilience, incorporating MGO honey into your daily diet can help. Many people find that taking MGO honey during cold and flu season helps them recover more quickly from infections or avoid them altogether.
5. Oral Health
Another surprising benefit of MGO honey is its positive effect on oral health. Though honey is often associated with sweetness, and thus with tooth decay, the antimicrobial properties of MGO honey make it an exception. Research shows that MGO honey can help reduce the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, which contributes to conditions like gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth decay.
Gargling with diluted MGO honey or using it in oral care products can help keep harmful bacteria at bay, reduce plaque buildup, and promote overall gum health. It’s a natural alternative to chemical mouthwashes and can be used regularly to support a healthy mouth.
Choosing the Right MGO Honey
When selecting MGO honey, it’s important to pay attention to the MGO rating. This number reflects the concentration of methylglyoxal in the honey, and higher numbers indicate a stronger antibacterial effect. Typically, MGO honey is graded as follows:
- MGO 100+: Suitable for everyday wellness and general immune support.
- MGO 250+: Effective for digestive health and mild skin conditions.
- MGO 400+: Useful for treating more serious conditions, such as ulcers or chronic wounds.
- MGO 550+ and above: Strongest potency, often used in clinical settings for severe infections or wound care.
For most people, an MGO level between 250 and 400 is sufficient for general health benefits and mild to moderate skin or digestive issues.
How to Use MGO Honey
Incorporating MGO honey into your routine is simple and versatile. Here are a few ways to use it:
- Topically: Apply directly to wounds, cuts, burns, or acne-prone areas.
- Orally: Take a teaspoon of MGO honey daily to boost your immune system and support digestive health.
- As a sweetener: Add to tea, smoothies, or yogurt for a nutritious and healing alternative to sugar.
- In face masks: Mix with natural ingredients like oatmeal or yogurt to create a soothing and antibacterial face mask.
Conclusion
The healing properties of MGO honey make it a unique and valuable natural remedy for a wide range of health issues. From wound care and skin health to digestive support and immune system strengthening, this honey’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects are unmatched. By choosing high-quality MGO honey with the appropriate potency for your needs, you can harness the power of nature to promote healing and maintain optimal health. Whether you’re using it as a daily supplement or a topical treatment, MGO honey offers a simple and effective way to enhance your wellness naturally.
