Most of us have heard of the new miracle remedy called Manuka honey. Manuka honey is made by bees that collect nectar from the manuka bush which grows wild in New Zealand. Manuka honey has traditionally been used for its health benefits and is renowned for warding off infections, and promoting natural healing and general wellbeing. The honey has been researched for decades, but only recently has a team of researchers from Germany identified its active ingredient, called methylglyoxal.
Methylglyoxal (MGO ) is a naturally occurring antibacterial agent. It can be measured by laboratory test and is expressed as “MGO” with a number indicating its strength. This strength usually varies between MGO100 and MGO400. To ensure antibacterial activity, only MGO Manuka honey available in health stores should be purchased.
Manuka honey’s antibacterial activity has been proven by researchers the world over, it works wonders for infected wounds, leg ulcers, stomach infections, and stubborn colds. Manuka dressings are already being used in many hospitals today. Recently, the Sligo Institute of Technology has joined the ranks of this research and is now collaborating with a US based pharmaceutical manufacturer to bring its research to the public. Several studies prove Manuka honey’s ability to kill MRSA in vitro, which is a major advantage.
To speed up wound healing, put some Manuka Health MGO400 strength on a wound plaster and place it on your wound, replace it once or twice daily.
Manuka can kill bacteria that cause inflammation and tummy trouble. Simply take a teaspoon full of MGO100 or MGO400 in a cup of herbal tea before meals or any time during the day to soothe the tummy.
Manuka Health, Bee Venom, & Glucosamine has been formulated for joint pain. It combines the anti-inflammatory benefits of manuka with the cartilage building benefits of Glucosamine.
The bacteria-fighting properties of manuka make it a very useful remedy to prevent colds and flu at any time of the year. Just sweeten your breakfast with some Manuka MGO100 or MGO400 honey or eat as dessert with natural yoghurt after dinner.
For more information and to purchase Manuka honey locally, contact your local Evergreen Healthfoods store. With stores at Moycullen, Barna, Westside, Galway Shopping Centre and Mainguard Street, and online at www.evergreen.ie there’s a store near you!
