What is Manuka Honey? Origins & Uses

What is Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey is a distinctive type of honey produced by bees that collect nectar from Leptospermum species, commonly known as mānuka or tea tree plants.

Known for its rich flavour and unique botanical origin, Manuka honey has attracted growing interest in both food and complementary medicine products.

In this article, we'll explore where Manuka honey comes from, how it differs from other types of honey, the naturally occurring compounds it contains, and how it is commonly used in complementary medicine products available in Australia.

Manuka honey is produced when bees forage on the flowers of Leptospermum species, particularly Leptospermum scoparium.

These flowering shrubs are native to New Zealand and parts of Australia, where they grow naturally in coastal and temperate regions. While both countries produce Manuka honey, grading systems and industry standards may differ between markets.

Quick Fact Table

The Leptospermum Scoparium Plant

Leptospermum scoparium is a flowering shrub native to New Zealand and parts of coastal south-eastern Australia. The plant typically grows as a dense shrub or small tree and produces small white or pink flowers during the flowering season. These blossoms provide the nectar source used by bees to produce Manuka honey.

Australian Manuka Honey vs. New Zealand Manuka Honey

Both Australia and New Zealand produce Manuka honey from Leptospermum species. The main differences relate to geography, plant populations, and the grading systems used by each industry. Australian and New Zealand producers may use different testing methods and terminology to describe honey composition and quality.

Australian vs New Zealand Comparison Table

Manuka honey is a type of honey derived primarily from Leptospermum species, whereas regular honey may be produced from nectar collected from many different flowering plants. Its botanical origin contributes to a distinct chemical profile and characteristic flavour.

Manuka vs Regular Honey Comparison Table

Monofloral vs. Multifloral Honey

Monofloral honey is produced predominantly from the nectar of a single plant species, while multifloral honey contains nectar gathered from many different flowering plants. Manuka honey is generally considered a monofloral honey when it is sourced primarily from Leptospermum flowers, although multifloral Manuka honey products also exist.

Key Naturally Occurring Compounds in Manuka Honey

Manuka honey naturally contains a variety of compounds that contribute to its composition and characteristics. These include methylglyoxal (MGO), hydrogen peroxide, dihydroxyacetone (DHA) and leptosperin, along with naturally occurring sugars, amino acids and other plant-derived substances.

Constituent Table

Several grading systems are used to describe Manuka honey. Two of the most commonly recognised are UMF® (Unique Manuka Factor) and MGO (Methylglyoxal). These systems provide information about composition and authenticity and are commonly displayed on product labels.

Grading Comparison Table

What is UMF (Unique Manuka Factor)?

UMF® is a grading system used primarily in New Zealand to assess the authenticity and composition of Manuka honey.

The UMF number is derived from testing specific naturally occurring markers associated with Manuka honey. Higher numbers indicate higher concentrations of the measured markers, although the grading itself should not be interpreted as a therapeutic claim.

What is MGO (Methylglyoxal)?

MGO stands for methylglyoxal, a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey. MGO grading indicates the measured concentration of methylglyoxal present in the honey and is commonly used by producers in both Australia and New Zealand. It serves as one of several methods used to characterise Manuka honey.

What Does the NPA Rating Mean?

NPA stands for Non-Peroxide Activity. It is a grading measure sometimes used within the Australian Manuka honey industry to assess specific characteristics of Manuka honey.

NPA ratings may appear alongside other grading systems and help provide additional information about the product's composition.

The Leptospermum plant has a long history within both Māori culture and early European settlement in New Zealand. Over time, interest expanded from traditional botanical uses to broader food and complementary medicine applications.

Today, Manuka honey is widely recognised as a unique honey derived from Leptospermum species.

Manuka Honey in Māori Traditional Practices

The mānuka plant has traditionally been used in rongoā Māori, the traditional healing practices of Māori communities.

Historical records describe the use of various parts of the mānuka plant in cultural and practical contexts. These traditions form an important part of the plant's historical significance and cultural heritage.

Manuka Honey in Contemporary Complementary Medicine

Today, Manuka honey is included in a variety of complementary medicine products and formulations. It continues to attract interest among consumers seeking products traditionally used in complementary medicine as part of general wellbeing and everyday throat comfort.  

Manuka honey is commonly included alongside other ingredients in throat lozenge formulations. In some products, the combined formulation is designed to help coat and soothe the throat and provide relief during colds, winter and seasonal changes.  

How Manuka Honey is Used in Combination Formulas

Manuka honey is often combined with complementary ingredients such as Black Elderberry in lozenge and other oral formulations.

Consumers may notice a range of grading systems and product formats when shopping for Manuka honey. Looking for clear labelling, recognised grading information can help consumers make informed choices.

Supplement Format Table

Reading Manuka Honey Labels in Australia

Australian Manuka honey labels may include information such as MGO ratings, NPA ratings, country of origin and other product-specific details.

For complementary medicines, consumers may also see an ARTG listing number (AUST L). Reading labels carefully can help consumers understand the characteristics and intended use of a product.

Common Forms of Manuka Honey in Complementary Medicine

Manuka honey may be found in a variety of complementary medicine formats, including liquid honey products, throat lozenges, capsules and topical preparations. The format chosen often depends on individual preference and the intended use of the product.

Formats Table

What does Manuka honey taste like?

Manuka honey is often described as having a rich, earthy and slightly herbaceous flavour compared with many standard honeys. Taste can vary depending on floral source, region and grading.

What is the difference between UMF and MGO in Manuka honey?

UMF® is a grading system that measures several markers associated with Manuka honey, while MGO refers specifically to the measured concentration of methylglyoxal. Both systems are commonly used to characterise Manuka honey products.

Is Manuka honey produced in Australia?

Yes. Australia produces Manuka honey from native Leptospermum species that grow in several regions of the country. Australian producers commonly use grading systems such as MGO and NPA.

Can Manuka honey be used in throat lozenges?

Yes. Manuka honey is commonly included as an ingredient in throat lozenges and other complementary medicine formulations.