Manuka Honey
Also known as: Honey, Leptospermum scoparium, Medical-grade honey, MGO 400+
The rare botanical with genuine research behind the hype — medical-grade manuka is FDA-cleared for wound dressings, which tells you the antibacterial claim isn't just marketing.
What It Does
Deep Dive
All honey is humectant and mildly antibacterial thanks to hydrogen peroxide release. Manuka is special because it also contains methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound unique to the Leptospermum scoparium plant that provides non-peroxide antibacterial activity — active even after dilution and heating. MGO-certified manuka (UMF 10+ or MGO 250+) is strong enough to be FDA-cleared as a medical wound dressing (Medihoney). In skincare, it's used as a barrier-friendly humectant that also helps with inflammatory acne. Safe for pregnancy. Watch for: non-MGO-certified "manuka" is often regular honey with marketing — check the certification. Infant botulism risk is a concern for internal consumption only, not topical use.
Health & Safety
Pregnancy Safety
Generally considered safe during pregnancy
