Honey, regardless of the type, is highly known for its health benefits. This is the main reason growing number of people are using honey as a sugar substitute in foods, drinks, as well as a natural treatment for wounds. In the past, sugar could not be easily obtained and the only available source of sugar was honey. However aside form its sweet taste, the main use of honey was to treat wounds. Honey with its antibacterial properties, can prevent infection and help heal the wound.

Nowadays, honey is known to contain additional antibacterial properties derived from various plants and bee derived chemicals. But what puzzles many is which one is a healthier choice: raw or Manuka honey? Following are the differences between Manuka and raw honey, including their health benefits.

Raw Honey

Raw honey can be sourced from any plant and doesn’t undergo any heating process before it is sold. This ensures a product with higher bio-active compounds intact. Raw honey often contains a greater assortment and amount of bio-active compounds than Manuka honey, but as it can be made from any plant, the quantity and variety of the derived compounds are very variable.

Bio-active compounds found in raw honey are known to help promote digestive system health and boost the immune system. Also the antioxidant properties of the honey help the body protect itself from a range of diseases associated with oxidative damage.

Manuka Honey

Manuka honey is sourced from a specific plant, the manuka tree and does not contain mixtures of various types or honey. When you buy Manuka honey online or offline what you get is a honey with consistent bio-active compounds present.

When compared to raw honey, Manuka honey contains high levels of the natural antibacterial compound called methylglyoxal. This antibacterial compound is very heat resistant which means it remains intact even after the heating process. Studies have shown that this compound can inhibit many of known pathogenic bacteria including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Also consumption of the Manuka honey offers antibacterial benefits for the health of the digestive system.

As you can see, both types of honey contain antibacterial compounds and offer numerous health benefits. However, Manuka honey is much more consistent in its content and is proven for its antibacterial properties.

You can buy manuka honey online or offline from almost any store that sells natural health products. Considered among many as the nature’s most amazing antibiotic, the Manuka honey has been helping many boost immunity and well-being.