The closest and most direct alternative to Manuka honey is Kanuka honey, which is derived from a similar, closely related plant (Kunzea ericoides) and possesses similar antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. Other top alternatives for antibacterial strength include Jarrah honey (high antimicrobial power, low GI) and Buckwheat honey (high antioxidants).
High in minerals and antioxidants, Buckwheat Honey is an excellent native alternative to Manuka Honey.
The healthiest Australian honeys are typically Stingless Bee Honey (Sugarbag) for its low GI and unique sugars, and high-activity Jarrah or Manuka honeys, known for strong antibacterial properties (high MGO/TA ratings) and antioxidants, making them great for wellness, immunity, and even wound care. Raw, unprocessed varieties, like those from Eucalyptus species (Jarrah, Marri), preserve more beneficial compounds, offering superior health benefits over heated honey.
Manuka honey is generally considered safe for pregnant women to consume. However, it should never be given to infants under one year of age due to the risk of botulism. Pregnant women with diabetes or gastrointestinal issues may need to limit or avoid honey consumption.
Manuka Honey hails from New Zealand and is the healthiest honey in the world! It has more Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties than any other honey! Manuka Honey is packed with Nutrients and Enzymes, and works great on your skin for any kinds of cuts or scrapes!
The specific type of honey matters, too. A variety known as Manuca honey contains antibacterial agents in greater concentrations than other honeys, as well as several other distinct compounds that make it uniquely well-suited for healing.
The Science Behind It: Why Australian Manuka is Stronger
Recent studies show that Australian Manuka Honey contains up to three times more Leptosperin than New Zealand Manuka. Leptosperin is a natural compound that confirms the authenticity and potency of Manuka honey.
Morning sickness is a very large issue that is almost always a big problem during pregnancy, it may make you feel like not consuming any food or you may even need to vomit, this is a big problem as your body is already creating high demand for nutrients, thankfully Manuka can be used to start the day off right and can ...
Raw honey may contain allergens
Unlike processed honey, raw honey may contain small amounts of pollen grains. According to literature, there were cases of allergic reactions after ingestion of raw honey that contained pollen. Symptoms could range from itching in the oral mucosa to anaphylactic shock.
No. Capilano honey is 100% pure Australian honey.
The "best" Manuka honey in Australia depends on your needs (daily health vs. potent remedy), but top brands known for quality and high potency include Biosota Organics (offering very high MGOs like 2000+), AB's Manuka, Australia's Manuka, and Manuka Health, with potency measured by MGO (Methylglyoxal) or UMF ratings, where higher numbers mean stronger antibacterial activity. Look for independent testing and higher MGO/UMF for therapeutic use, while lower MGOs (like 100+) are great for everyday wellness.
Yes, Capilano Pure Honey is marketed as 100% pure Australian honey, meaning nothing is added, just honey from Australian bees, hand-harvested and blended from eucalypt and ground flora. While past investigations (like the ACCC's regarding Allowrie honey) raised concerns about adulteration in the wider market, Capilano states their products undergo rigorous testing to ensure purity, delivering what they describe as natural, untainted honey.
Is UMF or MGO Better? UMF is a more comprehensive grading system, while MGO is simpler and more direct to test. Because they measure different aspects of mānuka honey, neither system is inherently more reliable than the other.
Look for MONOFLORAL Manuka: Authentic New Zealand Manuka honey should be clearly labelled as "MONOFLORAL". This indicates that it comes from bees that primarily feed on the nectar of the Manuka flower, ensuring higher concentrations of beneficial properties.
Other names include white manuka, makahikatoa (white warrior wood), white tea tree and heath like manuka, (ericoides means heath like).
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.
The body metabolizes Manuka honey differently than processed sugars, thanks to its natural sugars and unique compounds like MGO (methylglyoxal). Research suggests that these natural components can have a less pronounced impact on blood sugar levels, making it a suitable alternative for those with diabetes.
We also know that each jar must have a substantial amount of MGO to be an authentic Manuka, so we would recommend buying a minimum of 100+ MGO. Which Manuka honey should you buy? We recommend Manuka honey with a minimum of 100+ MGO.
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.
Topical applications of Manuka honey is used in the treatment of burns, ulcers and non-healing wounds. It has also been shown to combat antibiotic-resistant strains of infections, such as MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus).
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with Honey. Honey might slow blood clotting. Taking honey along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
The "best" Manuka honey brand depends on your needs, but top contenders consistently praised for quality, purity, and testing include Comvita, Manuka Health, New Zealand Honey Co., and Biosota Organics, with many experts recommending high-U M F (Unique Manuka Factor) or MGO (Methylglyoxal) ratings (e.g., 20+ UMF/850+ MGO) for potent benefits, but always check for independent lab results and UMF certification for authenticity.
It's from New Zealand
Look for honey that has been harvested, packed, and labelled in New Zealand. This will be written on the jar. In 2017, the UK trademark registry gave the New Zealand Manuka Honey Appellation Society a certification mark for the term 'Mānuka honey'.
The "best" Manuka honey in Australia depends on your needs (daily health vs. potent remedy), but top brands known for quality and high potency include Biosota Organics (offering very high MGOs like 2000+), AB's Manuka, Australia's Manuka, and Manuka Health, with potency measured by MGO (Methylglyoxal) or UMF ratings, where higher numbers mean stronger antibacterial activity. Look for independent testing and higher MGO/UMF for therapeutic use, while lower MGOs (like 100+) are great for everyday wellness.