Manuka Honey: Nature's Number One Disinfectant
There are a lot of creams and ointments sitting on the pharmacy shelves, but the best bacterial, fungal and yeast infection treatment is something that sits inside your pantry cabinet! Manuka honey is a mainstay in a lot of pantries in New Zealand (which exclusively produces it) and Australia. It is also popular throughout the world, particularly in the United States and Great Britain. What makes it antimicrobial?
This type of monofloral honey is considered as one of the world's best natural disinfectants, other than being one of the best tasting. This is due to a number of factors and components, which include: • Hydrogen peroxide – this piece of information could be a bit shocking: manuka honey, along with other types, contain a large amount of hydrogen peroxide. Yes, it's that boiling and searing liquid used to disinfect wounds. It is present in honey in large amounts: putting a teaspoon of it on a burn, wound or infection will definitely kill the microbes infesting it.
• Methlygloxal – also known as MG, it is present in all types of honey, but is found in concentrated amounts in the manuka variety. It is a
However, keep in mind that only manuka honey with a Unique Manuka Factor or UMF of 10+ has antimicrobial capabilities, with 20+ being the highest. Those that are 5+ and 8+ are only good for being toast and biscuit spreads, as well as sweeteners. What is it capable of curing? Manuka honey can treat a variety of microbial infections, as well as injuries. The most notable ones include the following: • Burns – first degree and mild second degree ones ones, can be treated with manuka honey. The liquid will prevent infection, further damage and will also speed up healing through nourishing the skin.
• Boils and acne – boils are caused by staph bacteria, along with ingrown hair follicles. Honey will help in eliminate the bacteria, and will lessen the inflammation, reducing scarring and further damage to the skin. Manuka honey also works well as a face mask, and can counter the horrendous effects of acne. • Ringworm – contrary to what its name suggests, ringworm is actually a type of fungus and NOT a worm. Commonly found on athletes and people with horrible hygiene, its famous manifestations include jock itch (affecting the groin) and athlete's foot. Applying manuka honey on the afflicted areas will kill the candida fungus and nourish the skin as well. Overall, manuka honey is one of Mother Nature's best gifts, and it can be used in a lot of ways. So, regardless if you're looking for a yeast infection treatment or a toast sweetener, this sort of honey is up for the challenge!