What is manuka and why is it so popular?
Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) is a shrub native to New Zealand and Australia, known for its exceptional antibacterial and healing properties. Its honey,manuka essential oil and extracts are widely used in phytotherapy and cosmetics to treat skin ailments, boost the immune system and improve digestion.
What are the benefits of manuka?
Manuka is recognized for its many therapeutic virtues:
- Powerful antibacterial properties: Fights infections and resistant bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus.
- Accelerated healing: promotes the regeneration of wounds, burns and skin irritations.
- Immune system support: Helps boost natural defenses and prevent winter infections.
- Soothing action on the skin: Ideal for treatingeczema, acne, redness and itching.
- Beneficial effect on digestion: relieves digestive disorders, gastric reflux and intestinal inflammation.
- Antifungal and antiviral properties: Effective against mycosis, warts and mouth infections.
What makes manuka honey unique?
Manuka honey is distinguished by its concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound with high antibacterial and healing properties. The higher its MGO index, the more powerful its therapeutic effects. It is commonly used to :
- Treat sore throats and soothe mouth inflammations.
- Promote digestion and relieve gastric ulcers.
- Healing wounds and burns.
How can manuka honey be used for health benefits?
Manuka honey can be consumed or applied to the skin, depending on the desired effect:
- By mouth: One teaspoon every morning boosts immunity and improves digestion.
- Skin application: Apply directly to wounds, burns or pimples to accelerate healing.
- Mouthwash: Dilute in water to combat mouth ulcers and gum inflammation.
- In hair care: mixed with shampoo to purify the scalp and combat dandruff.
What are the benefits of manuka essential oil?
Manuka essential oil is a powerful antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory agent. It is ideal for :
- Treating acne and skin blemishes.
- Disinfect small wounds and cuts.
- Relieving respiratory infections by inhalation.
- Fight fungal infections such as mycosis.
- Soothe insect bites and skin irritations.
Always use diluted in a vegetable oil before applying to the skin.
Can manuka honey be used for digestive problems?
Yes, manuka honey is an excellent ally for digestive health. It :
- Soothes gastric inflammation and reduces heartburn.
- Promotes the proliferation of good intestinal bacteria, improving digestion.
- Helps fight Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium responsible for gastric ulcers.
Regular consumption contributes to better intestinal health.
Is manuka effective against skin infections?
Absolutely. Honey and manuka essential oil are used for :
- Acne and blemishes, thanks to their purifying and anti-inflammatory action.
- Wounds and burns, promoting rapid healing.
- Skin mycoses and warts, thanks to their antifungal properties.
Particularly recommended for sensitive and reactive skin.
Is manuka honey suitable for children and pregnant women?
- Manuka honey is safe for children over 12 months of age, but not recommended before that age.
- Manuka essential oil should not be used on pregnant women and children under 6 years of age without medical advice.
What are the possible side effects of manuka?
Manuka is generally well tolerated, but certain precautions should be taken:
- Honey can cause an allergic reaction in people sensitive to beehive products.
- Excessive use of manuka honey can raise blood sugar levels, and should be used sparingly by diabetics.
- The essential oil should always be diluted before application to the skin, to avoid irritation.
Where can I buy quality manuka honey?
It is essential to choose certified manuka honey with a high MGO or UMF index to guarantee its effectiveness.Manuka essential oil must be 100% pure and organic for optimum action. These products are available in pharmacies, organic stores and specialized stores.
