Magnificent Manuka
The Manuka Story & its Benefits
The Manuka plant (Leptospermum scoparium) has been a part of New Zealand’s story for centuries. The Maori used its bark, gum, and leaves for various types of healing before its honey ever came to fame, and while we know now that Manuka honey is a superfood, it wasn’t until the late 80’s, that New Zealand scientist Dr. Peter Molan confirmed the presence of unique, antimicrobial properties.
Before this, Manuka was often fed to livestock, and many of our generational beekeepers still remember this! In fact, it was these very livestock, with their improved health, that encouraged Dr. Molan along with a group of beekeepers to undertake more research.
- Immune support for coughs, colds, and sore throats
- Digestive support for a healthy gut
- Wound Healing for cuts, grazes and ulcers
- Creams and Lotions to help treat eczema, rosacea and other skin issues
- Minerals, enzymes and trace elements which help fortify your bones, teeth, and red blood cells
Manuka Honey has a characteristic dark cream to dark brown colour. It is a delicious, thick, thixotropic honey with a strong mineral flavour. Once you get a taste for its flavour and benefits you never want to go back!
This gold standard in honey can be tricky to produce though! While it is a hardy shrub, and grows prolifically on both the North and South Islands of New Zealand, Manuka plants bloom for only a few weeks a year. This means hives are often moved multiple times to ensure the maximum amount of nectar can be captured from its delicate flowers, and beehives can often be found in some of the most remote, untouched parts of New Zealand. iManuka partners with some of the best beekeepers in the business, who’ve produced Manuka for decades, ensuring the finest grade of Manuka makes its way into our products.
