Between the ages of seven and seventeen I had recurrent tonsilitis. It was grim. I never missed school as a result of this but it ruined many a school holiday. I’d manage to keep going all term and then it would hit me as school holidays began. Back then, GPs wanted to prescribe penicillin for tonsilitis but I am allergic to this. I did have alternative antibiotics sometimes but they never seemed to work, so we abandoned that along the way.

Gradually, over the years my parents and my grandma came up with ways to tackle this excruciating throat condition. My grandma would make me eat a tonne of orange wedges as the end of term approached and if/when tonsilitis hit my dad would make me this mixture which was basically TCP and water and I’d gargle it. It was disgusting but it took away the pain and it was antiseptic so it massively helped the infection. My mum and grandma would make me hot honey and lemon and I would drink this repeatedly until the infection cleared.

Fortunately, my children haven’t suffered with recurrent tonsilitis but nonetheless I’ve used the hot honey and lemon every time some one has been under the weather in our family. It’s an old method but it really works.

In a world where modern medicine is advancing rapidly, it’s easy to overlook the age-old remedies that have been trusted for centuries. Manuka honey, with its rich history and remarkable healing properties, is one such natural wonder that can play a pivotal role in supporting your family’s health. This article will explore the numerous benefits of Manuka honey and provide insights into how you can incorporate it into your family’s wellness routine. Trust me, it’s amazing stuff!

The Story of Manuka Honey

Manuka honey is a unique type of honey that originates from New Zealand, primarily from the nectar of the Manuka bush’s flowers. What sets it apart from other honeys is its extraordinary potency. Manuka honey contains a compound called methylglyoxal (MGO), which gives it its distinctive antibacterial and antifungal properties. This natural elixir has been used for centuries by the indigenous Māori people of New Zealand and is now enjoyed worldwide for its exceptional health benefits. Do you have any in your kitchen cupboard or pantry?

Supporting Family Health

So how can the magic Manuka Honey support your family’s health?

1. Immune System Booster: Manuka honey is renowned for its immune-boosting properties. Its high MGO levels help fight off infections and illnesses, making it a valuable addition to your family’s health arsenal. One recent lab-based study found MGO may inhibit the virus that causes Covid-19 – researchers found MGO boosted levels of powerful immune system cells to fight the virus while keeping potentially dangerous inflammation at bay. Consuming a spoonful daily or adding it to your tea can provide that extra layer of protection against colds, flu, and other common ailments.
2. Wound Healing: The remarkable antibacterial properties of Manuka honey make it an ideal choice for wound care and skin health. When applied topically, it can accelerate the healing process of cuts, burns, and minor wounds while preventing infections. I’ve found it quite helpful in tackling eczema with two of my children over the years and we’ve even used it on a toe infection caused by an ingrowing toenail!
3. Sore Throat Relief: Remember what I said about tonsilitis? Soothing a sore throat is a common concern in any household. Manuka honey can offer natural relief. Mixing it with warm water or herbal tea can provide comfort and help alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with sore throats – side note, it also tastes AMAZING!
4. Digestive Health: Manuka honey is also beneficial for digestive health. It can help balance the gut’s microbial environment, promoting better digestion and a healthier gut flora. Its antimicrobial properties can assist in addressing issues like acid reflux and indigestion.

Choosing the Right Manuka Honey

To fully reap the benefits of Manuka honey, it’s crucial to select the right type. The strength of Manuka Honey is measured using the MGO (Methylglyoxal) grading system. Scientists generally agree that MGO is the best way to establish a honey’s antimicrobial (bacteria killing) strength. When deciding on which Manuka Honey to buy, the greater the number, the stronger the antimicrobial activity. Additionally ensure that the Manuka honey that you buy has been independently tested to ensure the MGO rating is true to label.

The Manuka Doctor 100 MGO Squeezable Manuka Honey provides a fun way for children and grandchildren to incorporate the goodness of Manuka into their breakfast or lunch regime. Just squeeze onto yoghurt, cereal or even sandwiches for a healthy, happy meal! 

Incorporating Manuka Honey into Your Family’s Routine

1. Morning Routine: Start the day with a spoonful of Manuka honey mixed in warm water or herbal tea. This will give your family an immune system boost and set a healthy tone for the day.
2. Natural Sweetener: Substitute processed sugars with Manuka honey in your recipes. It’s a healthier alternative for sweetening your family’s meals and snacks. This is also way better than any artificial sweetener – no one needs those in their life! Use it in your baking instead of sugar, put it on cereal, and anywhere else you want some sweetness.
3. Topical Application: Keep a jar of Manuka honey in your medicine cabinet for quick access to its wound-healing properties. Apply it to minor cuts and burns to promote healing and prevent infection, it really does work wonders.
4. Sore Throat Remedy: When someone in the family has a sore throat, mix Manuka honey with warm water, lemon, and ginger for a soothing and healing drink. This combo is genius!
5. Digestive Aid: Include Manuka honey in your family’s diet as a natural way to support digestive health. Drizzle it over yogurt, mix it into smoothies, or spread it on whole-grain toast and pancakes, you can even drizzle it over vegetables, or use it in sauces!

Final Thoughts

Manuka honey is a time-tested, natural remedy that can play a crucial role in supporting your family’s health. Its immune-boosting, wound-healing, and digestive health properties make it a valuable addition to your wellness routine. By choosing high-quality Manuka honey and incorporating it into your family’s daily life, you can harness the power of this remarkable natural wonder to promote a healthier, happier household.