5 Unconventional Ways Manuka Honey Can Improve Your Wellness Routine
Un-bee-lievable hacks
Whether you’re looking to elevate your skincare routine or find natural remedies for everyday woes, the benefits of Manuka honey go way beyond soothing sore throats.
When you think of honey, you probably picture it being drizzled over pancakes or stirred into tea. But what if there is a honey that is even more powerful than the kind you’re used to?
Enter Manuka honey—nature’s liquid gold, celebrated for its distinct flavour and exceptional healing properties. This versatile powerhouse goes beyond soothing sore throats and supporting your health, but what exactly sets it apart from regular honey?
The secret lies in methylglyoxal (MGO), the compound behind its superior health benefits. Sourced exclusively from the Manuka bush, native to New Zealand and parts of Australia, Manuka honey contains a much higher concentration of MGO compared to regular honey. If you’ve ever noticed a number on a jar of Manuka honey, that’s the MGO rating—the higher the number, the stronger its antimicrobial effects. While regular honey contains small amounts of hydrogen peroxide, a natural antiseptic, Manuka honey’s elevated MGO levels make it a standout for everyday use.
From beauty staples to creative culinary twists, here’s how you can make the most of this golden superfood.
A NATURAL MOISTURISER
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When it comes to skincare, Manuka honey stands out for its powerful humectant properties—a moisture-attracting substance that draws water from the air and locks it into your skin, keeping it soft and hydrated. If you struggle with dry, flaky, or irritated skin, Manuka honey’s high MGO levels can be a game-changer as its healing properties promote cell regeneration, helping your skin recover faster.
For those who want a simple yet effective solution to dry skin, using Manuka honey as a face mask is an easy way to boost hydration and skin health.
NOTE: Make sure to do a patch test on an inconspicuous part of your body before applying this concoction to your face!
DIY Manuka honey face mask
Ingredients:
- One tablespoon Manuka honey
- One tablespoon yoghurt
Instructions:
- Mix Manuka honey and yoghurt in a small bowl
- Apply the mixture to clean face, avoiding the eye area
- Leave it on for 10-15 minutes
- Rinse off with lukewarm water and pat dry
ACNE TREATMENT
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Manuka honey boasts powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help to combat acne-causing bacteria, reduce redness and swelling, and calm irritated skin. Its gentle, healing nature also aids in balancing and nourishing your skin, making it ideal for sensitive or breakout-prone complexions.
Pairing Manuka honey with other anti-inflammatory ingredients is a great way to naturally clear blemishes and keep future breakouts at bay.
DIY acne treatment
Ingredients:
- One teaspoon Manuka honey
Instructions:
- Apply Manuka honey to acne-prone areas of your face
- Leave on for 10-15 minutes
- Gently rinse off with warm water and follow up with a soothing moisturiser
DIY exfoliating body scrub
Ingredients:
- One tablespoon Manuka honey
- Two tablespoons coffee grounds
- Few drops of any essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine Manuka honey, coffee grounds and essential oil (optional)
- Apply scrub in a circular motion while gently massaging the skin, paying particular attention to dry areas like the knees and elbows
- Rinse off with cool water
HAIR CARE
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Struggling with dry, dull hair? Manuka honey’s humectant powers aren’t just great for skin—they work wonders for your hair too. It promotes a healthier scalp by soothing irritation, combating dryness, and reducing flakiness—creating the perfect environment for stronger, more resilient hair growth. Plus, its natural antibacterial properties help keep your scalp clean and balanced, preventing issues like dandruff and itchiness.
Combining Manuka honey with natural oils can improve hair strength and prevent split ends.
DIY deep-conditioning hair mask
Ingredients:
- One tablespoon Manuka honey
- One tablespoon coconut oil or olive oil
Instructions:
- Mix Manuka honey and coconut/olive oil in a bowl
- Apply the mixture generously to damp hair, focusing on the ends and scalp
- Leave on for 30-45 minutes
- Rinse thoroughly and shampoo as usual
GUILT-FREE SYRUPS
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If you’ve got a sweet tooth but crave a more sophisticated twist, an Earl Grey-infused syrup is a must-have in your pantry. Traditionally made by steeping Earl Grey tea leaves in a sugar syrup, you can opt for a healthier option by swapping sugar out for Manuka honey. It adds a rich, floral sweetness that enhances the tea’s citrusy, bergamot notes, while bringing the added bonus of Manuka honey’s health benefits—so you can indulge in your favorite treats or drinks without the guilt.
Earl Grey syrup recipe
Ingredients:
- One cup water
- Two Earl Grey teabags
- ¾ cup Manuka honey
Instructions:
- In a saucepan over medium-high heat, bring water to a boil, keeping the lid on to prevent evaporation. Once boiling, remove from heat and add the tea bags. Cover and let steep for at least 10 minutes
- Remove the tea bags, then stir in the Manuka honey. Return the mixture to heat just until it starts to simmer—avoid boiling to preserve the honey’s beneficial properties
- Remove from heat and set aside to cool
- Store in an airtight container and refrigerate
TO IMPROVE OVERALL HEALTH
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Soaking your favourite nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or cashews in Manuka honey makes for a delicious and nutrient-dense snack. Apart from adding a natural sweetness, Manuka honey aids the absorption of healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants found in nuts. This pairing creates a convenient snack that supports brain function, reduces inflammation, and provides sustained energy throughout the day while promoting gut health.
Homemade Manuka honey-soaked nuts
Ingredients:
- One cup raw nuts of your choice
- ¼ cup Manuka honey
- One tablespoon water
Instructions:
- Rinse the nuts and pat dry with paper
- In a small saucepan, combine Manuka honey and water
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for five minutes, or until the honey has slightly thickened
- Remove saucepan from heat and stir in the nuts
- Spread the nuts on a baking sheet and set aside to cool
- Store the honey-soaked nuts in an airtight container. Keep at room temperature for up to two weeks
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