Manuka Honey Health Benefits
Although it makes a great spread on bread, honey is so much more than a delicious addition to a sandwich. For a long time now, it has served as a natural remedy for ailments ranging from an upset stomach to acne. The most fascinating aspect of this substance is that there are over 300 types of honey in the world today. Out of all of them, Manuka honey is well-known for its numerous health benefits, making it one of the tastiest superfoods out there. This honey is indigenous to New Zealand and has a whole range of benefits, here is a handful of them.
1. Strengthens Immune System
The immune system is the bedrock on which health is built on, keeping it nice and strong is the only way to ensure that you are guarded against pathogens. Manuka honey is right up there with citrus and yogurt, making sure that the immune system is strong and fortified. It has been known to increase the number of cells in the immune system, additionally, it is in control of the various immune responses that guard against infection. So, if you have been experiencing a recurring case of the flu, a teaspoon of manuka honey in a beverage of your choice could go a long way.
2. Guards Against Cancer
The big C is something that everyone dreads and for good reason too. Though there is so much uncovered ground when it comes to the disease, some food substances have been known to contain cancer protecting compounds. During a study, it was discovered that injecting manuka honey intravenously reduces the growth of tumors by 33%. It also proved that a mixture of the honey with a range of other anti-cancer drugs shrunk tumors by a whopping 61 %. Thanks to compounds called phenols present in the honey, they offer up a more natural way of dealing with cancer.
3. It is A Powerful Antibacterial Substance
While honey, in general, is recognized for its antibacterial attributes, manuka honey has cranked it up a notch. It is one of the most powerful antibacterial substances out there. This effective substance has the ability to destroy a wide range of deadly bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureu, which causes skin infection and even Clostridium which causes Sepsis. Its all-around effectiveness is as a result of its high non-peroxide activity, making it more powerful than all other kinds of honey out there. It works twice as fast and delivers twice the punch.
4. Helps With Dental Health
Thanks to its antibacterial attributes, Manuka honey is great when it comes to tackling all sorts of tooth infections. The proof of this was gathered from a study which was published in the Journal of Int Acad Periodontol. Each of the participants was given chewing gum infused with Manuka honey and they all recorded a notable reduction in plaque content. Of course, there was a control group that was not administered the same gum and they had a higher amount of plaque formation than their counterparts.
5. It Is Great For Digestion
Digestive health plays an important role in keeping the body up and running, with a little bit of manuka honey, it can get even better. It easily works on reducing inflammation caused by digestive disorders while also soothing all discomfort related to abdominal bloating. This is all thanks to the presence of a natural probiotic which plays a vital role in nurturing the helpful bacteria in the gut. In turn, this enables the digestive system to naturally reset itself. So, if you are experiencing indigestion, a bit of Manuka honey can remedy that swiftly and naturally.
6. Works Wonders On The Skin
Anyone on the market for a new and effective skin regimen is in luck because Manuka honey works wonders on the skin. As good as chemical based products are, this honey offers up a more natural solution to acne and other skin irritations. Additionally, thanks to its ability to absorb moisture directly from the air and redirect it to the skin, it is a great alternative to traditional face moisturizers. It can equally be used as a moisturizing or exfoliator, as well as a component for a refreshing bath.
7. It Is An Effective Hair Removal Substance
All DIY enthusiasts and lovers of natural products will appreciate this benefit. With Manuka honey as the main ingredient, you can make a mixture that will replace wax and hair removal creams. It does not take a lot of time and effort to prepare and it contains just 3 ingredients. 1/3 cup of Manuka homey needs to be boiled down with a cup of sugar and some lemon. The mixture can then be applied to the area that needs to be shaved using cotton strips and left to dry. Once it is all dried up, it can be pulled off quickly, thus taking all the hair there with it. The best part is that the strips can be rinsed out and used again.
8. It Is A Great Aftershave
Some people do not react well to hair removal, that is just one of the facts of life. For that reason, aftershaves were created. Rather than opting for a chemical-based aftershave, a thin layer of Manuka honey will suffice. Since it has powerful healing properties in general, it can first help to soothe and stop the beard itch then reduce the inflammation altogether. Its aftershave properties do not only work on the face, but the rest of the body can also benefit from it.
9. Treats Sleeplessness
Some people are lucky, once their heads hit the pillow they are instantly transported to dreamland. On the other hand, others need to count sheep, drink warm milk, take pills and do all sorts of things to no avail. A great way to tackle this naturally and fall asleep at night is by taking a spoonful of Manuka honey just before bedtime. This is because the honey goes a long way to balance blood sugar levels. This, in turn, leads to the release of glycogen which is in charge of keeping bodily functions in check while the body is asleep. Additionally, it makes it easier for the brain to release melatonin which is needed to achieve a good night’s sleep.
10. It Gives A Boost Of Energy
What do energy drinks, coffee and candy have in common? Well, they can all be used to get that surge of energy needed to carry you for a given period of time. Nevertheless, none of these options are as healthy as Manuka honey. This is all-natural sugar and as such, taking it in controlled doses can create the same effect. It is a much better alternative since it poses a more nutritious and all-around healthy route.
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