Organic Living Food - Manuka 15+ Honey - Organic

IFOAM accredited, USDA approved

Found only in a few areas of New Zealand, active honey contains an additional antibacterial component found only in some Manuka honey. This factor is tested on a scale of 0-20 for antibacterial activity.

Manuka Honey is rated by its activity levels which can range from 5+ to 20+. The different activity in the honey can be used for different purposes, for example, a honey with an activity rating of 25+ is typically used topically on wounds where as a honey with an activity of 12+ is more commonly used internally, although is also effective when used externally. Active Manuka can be effective against superbugs like E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Helicobacter pylori.

The activity, also known as the non hydrogen peroxide activity, has been compared to having the same strength of carbolic acid (phenol). For example a honey with an activity that ranges from 5 to 25 has an equivalent anti-bacterial strength of a 5% to 25% solution of carbolic acid. The higher the number, the more powerful its anti-bacterial activity.

Manuka honey contains the highest antioxidant levels of any honey, plus it can help stimulate the immune system and deals with infection.

Batches vary from season to season. Below is a chart showing the different activity ratings.

* Activities between 0 and 4+ contain a low level of OMA activity and can be used for nutrition only.

* Activities between 5+ and 8+ contain a medium level of OMA activity which can be used for general well-being.

* Activities between 9+ and 16+ contain a superior level of OMA activity, which can be used for digestive maintenance.

* Activities between 17 and higher are used for topical applications only.

The activity in Manuka Honey, is similar to wine, it increases with age. So a honey that is 12+ can be retested in six months showing its activity level has increased to 15+. Organically Certified Manuka Honey has no expiry date so has a long shelf life!