Manuka honey and regular honey differ in several key aspects, ranging from their origin and composition to their medicinal properties and uses. In short, anything regular honey can do, Manuka honey does better while also doing things regular honey cannot. Here is the long version:
Antimicrobial Effects
Regular honey mainly relies on hydrogen peroxide activity to eliminate bacteria. Hydrogen peroxide levels can degrade over time or in certain environments.
Manuka honey not only contains hydrogen peroxide, it is also renowned for its NPA or Non Peroxide Activity through it's powerful antibiotic compound Methylglyoxal (MGO). This means that Manuka does not need to rely on its hydrogen peroxide content to kill bacteria making it far more potent against a far larger array of bacteria. Like most honey, Manuka contains oligosaccharides that have been shown to have prebiotic effects, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria like bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, however the unique antimicrobial compounds in Manuka honey (like MGO) might also affect gut flora differently compared to regular honey. Studies suggest that while Manuka promotes beneficial bacteria, it can inhibit pathogenic bacteria.
Anti-inflammation
Manuka honey contains an abundance of Leptosperin which acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory, whereas regular honey relies solely on its phenolic compounds and flavonoids for anti-inflammation.
Phenolic Compounds and Flavonoids
Manuka honey generally contains far more phenolic compounds and flavonoids than regular honey making it a more powerful antioxidant. These compounds are also enhance by the effects of the Leptosperin.
Mineral Content
Studies and analyses have shown that Manuka honey can contain up to four times more conductive minerals than regular honey. These minerals include:
Potassium - Essential for heart function and fluid balance.
Calcium - Important for bone health and neuromuscular function.
Magnesium - Necessary for muscle and nerve function, as well as energy production.
Sodium - Vital for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function.
Hopefully this makes choosing your next honey for your daily regimen easier.
