Yes, Manuka honey appears good for acid reflux (GERD) because its thick, viscous nature coats the esophagus, offering a protective barrier against stomach acid, reducing inflammation, and potentially promoting healing, with studies showing significant symptom improvement in patients. Its anti-inflammatory properties and prebiotic effects also support overall gut health, making it a promising natural remedy, though it's best as a complementary treatment alongside diet and potential medication, and you should consult a doctor if symptoms persist.
There's good news if you suffer with acid reflux.
That's because Manuka honey could help your symptoms, according to a study in the Journal of Food Science and Nutrition.
Dosage Recommendations. Research published in the British Medical Journal suggests that consuming 5 ml (one teaspoon) of raw honey can reduce symptoms of heartburn. Mix honey with warm water, tea, or milk to enhance its soothing effect.
Studies have found Manuka honey to be effective against acid reflux, gastric reflux, GERD and gastritis. Its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties help the body to heal and protect itself against any nasties that threaten our stomach and digestive health.
These medicines — known as proton pump inhibitors — are stronger acid blockers than H-2 blockers and allow time for damaged esophageal tissue to heal. Nonprescription proton pump inhibitors include lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) and esomeprazole (Nexium).
Manuka Honey has a pH of ~3.9 (acidic), creating an inhospitable environment for bacteria growth. Low pH levels improve tissue oxygenation which increases resistance to infection and promotes healing.
We recommend the following Manuka honeys from New Zealand Honey Co. for stomach problems and gastritis:
For fast acid reflux relief, try over-the-counter antacids (like Tums, Rolaids) for immediate neutralization or baking soda in water for quick buffering, but also consider lifestyle fixes like staying upright and elevating your head to sleep, or natural options like ginger tea or a banana, though these provide temporary relief; for persistent issues, stronger acid reducers (H2 blockers or PPIs) may be needed from a doctor, notes Cleveland Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine.
Having honey for acidity is the best way to reduce the burning sensations that you are going through as the viscosity of honey helps in coating the esophagus. Many people drink milk for the same reason but, drinking milk can give relief to the food pipe temporarily as milk produces excessive acid in the stomach.
Green tea mixed with manuka honey
There has been evidence showing a notable difference between people who suffer from gastritis who drank tea and honey only once a week. In addition, Manuka honey has proven to have antibacterial properties, allowing it to keep H. pylori from leaving its boundaries.
Thanks to its natural prebiotic compounds, Manuka can help feed the good bacteria in the gut, supporting a healthy microbiome. Research suggests it may also aid in fighting harmful bacteria like H. pylori and C. difficile, which are linked to stomach ulcers and food poisoning.
Lemon juice is generally considered very acidic, but a small amount of lemon juice mixed with warm water and honey has an alkalizing effect that neutralizes stomach acid. Also, honey has natural antioxidants, which protect the health of cells.
Taking manuka honey in the morning or pre-workout can give you an energy boost. You can also take it in the evening as part of your wind-down ritual. Whenever you choose to take manuka honey, just remember to opt for a reputable brand and UMF™ graded, like ours.
The best way to eat manuka honey is raw, since you'll reap all the benefits. Never mix it with boiling liquids, as the heat will sterilise the honey, taking away its antimicrobial properties. Here are a few ways to eat manuka honey: stir into your favourite tea.
To help manage acid reflux at home, try:
Having acid reflux doesn't necessarily mean you have a medical condition. GERD, on the other hand, is a chronic medical condition. This means it is an ongoing disease with acid reflux causing symptoms two or more times a week.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are drugs that block the three major pathways for acid production. PPIs suppress acid production much more effectively than H2 blockers. PPIs heal erosive esophagitis in many patients, even those with severe esophageal damage.
Manuka honey should start working straight away. For wound and burn care the area should be soothed and show noticeable changes overnight. For skin conditions it should soothes the skin quickly and then might take a few applications to get a good result.
Heat and liquids alter the viscosity of honey, so adding honey to warm water or tea may change the properties of honey that are useful for acid reflux. Honey could potentially work best when consumed by itself after meals to maintain its viscosity and coat the contents of the stomach.
Does manuka honey need to be refrigerated? No, you should avoid refrigerating your manuka honey. It is best stored in a cool, dark place like a cupboard or pantry. Refrigeration of any honey — not just the special manuka variety — can cause crystallisation.
Its potent anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the stomach lining and alleviate irritation. Coating and protecting the stomach lining, Manuka honey can also form a protective barrier, reducing the impact of stomach acid on the ulcer and allowing the tissue to heal.
Taken daily, and throughout the day in small amounts as you feel your symptoms arise, Manuka Honey has been found by many to support them on their journey with reflux and indigestion. The best Mānuka Honey for reflux and indigestion support is the Steens® Targeted Collection.