• How is Manuka honey produced?
• How does Manuka honey differ from regular honey?
• What are the benefits of Manuka honey for the skin?

How is Manuka honey produced?

The Manuka plant, also known as jelly bush or tea tree, is a shrub-like, flowering tree native to New Zealand. When it blooms during the early summer months, bees pollinate it to create Manuka honey.

How does Manuka honey differ from regular honey?

The quality of regular honey remains unaffected by flora and fauna. Once honey is collected from the bee hive, it is segregated by type—raw, organic and table honey—so that it can undergo the right kind of processing.

On the other hand, Manuka honey is produced only when the Manuka tree is pollinated. This means, to collect Manuka honey, one must wait for early summer—its pollination period. Since this process is relatively lengthy and tedious, Manuka honey is much more expensive. It also comes with its own UMF rating (Unique Manuka Factor) based on quality.

What are the benefits of Manuka honey for the skin?

Manuka honey has a deeper flavour, creamier texture and a much earthier, stronger taste as compared to regular honey. Its beauty benefits have been exploited by the Maori tribe since ancient times.

It is an excellent humectant, drawing moisture from the environment and infusing it into the driest of skin types.

Manuka honey is known to be such a potent anti-bacterial agent that it can be applied raw to cuts and wounds to stave off infection. By the same logic, you can use it on acne and pimples too! Given that it is also anti-fungal in nature, it assists in quick healing and scarring.

To make a Manuka honey face pack for oily, acne-prone skin, mix a tablespoon of it with 2 teaspoons of milk, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and a pinch of cinnamon. Apply this mixture on your face and neck and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off.

Milk will moisturise your skin and the combination of Manuka honey with lime and cinnamon will help reduce oiliness and hold off pimples.