The Different Types of Honey and What They Are Best For
Honey is often used as a natural sweetener and is widely recognised as a pantry staple. But did you know that not all honey is created equal? With so many different types of honey available, it can be difficult to know which kind is best for you. Let’s explore the different types of honey and what they are best for, with a special focus on Mānuka honey.
Multifloral Honey
Multifloral honey, also often referred to as wildflower honey, is produced by bees that gather nectar from a variety of flowers. This type of honey has a complex flavour and aroma that varies depending on the region and season. Multifloral honey is often used in cooking, baking, and as a natural sweetener.
Monofloral Honey
Monofloral honey is produced by bees that gather nectar from a single type of flower. This type of honey has a distinct flavour and aroma that depends on the specific flower the bees visited. For example, clover honey has a light, floral taste, while lavender honey has a strong, herbal flavour. Monofloral honey is highly prized for its unique taste and therapeutic properties. It's often used in cooking, baking, and as a natural sweetener.
Mānuka Honey
Mānuka honey is a unique type of monofloral honey that is produced in New Zealand and has unique therapeutic properties. Mānuka honey is produced by bees that feed on the nectar of the mānuka tree, which is native to New Zealand. This honey has been gaining popularity in the health and wellness world due to its powerful healing properties.
One of the key components that makes Mānuka honey special is its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), which gives it its strong antibacterial properties. The higher the concentration of MGO, the stronger the antibacterial effect.
UMF
The Unique Mānuka Factor (UMF) is a rating system used to measure the potency and antibacterial properties of Mānuka honey. The UMF rating is based on the amount of MGO and other active compounds in the honey. The higher the UMF rating, the more potent the honey is. When shopping for Mānuka honey, it's important to look for a UMF rating to ensure you're getting the real deal.
Mānuka Honey in Skincare
Mānuka honey has also become a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Mānuka honey has been shown to help soothe and hydrate the skin, making it a great natural remedy for dry, irritated skin. Additionally, a study published in the National Library of Medicine found that Mānuka honey was effective in treating infected wounds and preventing bacterial growth.
Any type of honey makes for a great sweetener alternative. However, if you are looking for honey that is also nutritionally beneficial, Mānuka honey may be the best option for you. At Taylor Pass Honey, we take pride in producing the highest quality and sustainable New Zealand Mānuka honey. Every jar of our Mānuka honey is UMF® certified, so you can be confident that you are getting genuine, high-quality Mānuka honey.