Pure Strength: Gather By Manuka Honey and Its MGO Power

What makes one spoonful of honey more powerful than another? In Manuka honey, it all comes down to three letters: MGO. 

At Gather By, we believe Manuka honey is more than a natural sweetener. It is nature’s medicine chest. Rich in flavour, packed with healing qualities, and nurtured in pristine Australian landscapes, our honey is renowned for its strength and purity. What sets it apart is its MGO (Methylglyoxal) content, the natural compound that gives Manuka honey its exceptional potency. 

In this article, we’ll explore what MGO is, why it matters, and how Gather By’s unique approach makes our Australian Manuka honey unlike any other. 

What Is MGO in Honey? 

MGO, short for methylglyoxal, is a naturally occurring compound found in Manuka honey. It is created when nectar rich in DHA (dihydroxyacetone) from the Leptospermum flower is transformed by bees into honey. The higher the DHA in the nectar, the more MGO forms in the honey. 

This is what gives Manuka honey its powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial qualities. While all raw honeys have some antibacterial activity, Manuka honey stands out because of its consistent, scientifically measurable levels of MGO. 

The higher the MGO rating, the stronger the honey. MGO ratings typically range from 100+ for everyday use, through to rare and powerful levels such as 2000+ and beyond, which are prized for medicinal applications. 

At Gather By, every jar of honey is independently tested to certify its precise MGO content. You can trust that the number on the label matches the natural power inside. 

Why Australian Manuka Honey Is Different 

When people think of Manuka, they often think of New Zealand. What many don’t realise is that Manuka honey actually originates in Australia. Australia is home to 80+ species of Leptospermum compared with New Zealand’s single variety. 

Through more than seven years of scientific research, Gather By has identified 15 Australian Leptospermum species that produce nectar high in DHA. This gives Australian Manuka honey a wider diversity of flavour, colour, and importantly, potency. Studies by Australian scientists such as Professor Peter Brooks have also shown Australian Manuka honey contains higher levels of phenolics and polyphenols, compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. 

By choosing Australian Manuka honey, you are not only enjoying honey with exceptional MGO levels but also supporting a more biodiverse and sustainable source of this natural treasure. 

The Health Benefits of High-MGO Manuka Honey 

1. Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Power 

MGO-rich Manuka honey has been shown to kill harmful bacteria including those resistant to antibiotics. This is why it is widely used for wound healing, sore throats, and minor infections. 

2. Immune Support 

Regular consumption of Manuka honey can help strengthen the immune system. A spoonful a day provides natural protection during cold and flu season. 

3. Digestive Wellness 

Manuka honey supports gut health by balancing bacteria in the digestive system. It has been used to ease reflux, IBS, and stomach ulcers. 

4. Skin Health and Healing 

Applied to the skin, Manuka honey can accelerate wound healing, calm acne, reduce redness, and support the repair of burns or cuts. It is also increasingly found in natural skincare products. 

5. Antioxidant Protection 

Packed with antioxidants, Manuka honey helps combat oxidative stress, protecting cells and supporting healthy ageing. 

Raw Honey vs Processed Honey 

Many supermarket honeys are heat-treated and heavily filtered, which can destroy enzymes and beneficial compounds. Raw honey retains its natural vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and antibacterial activity. 

Gather By’s honey is always raw, pure, and hand-crafted in small batches. This gentle processing ensures all the goodness remains intact. 

The Gather By Difference: Medicinal Honey Forest™ 

Our Medicinal Honey Forest™ model sets us apart. We model planting high-DHA Leptospermum alongside complementary species that provide pollen and nectar for bees year-round. This means healthier, stronger bees. 

The model improves biodiversity, and provides farmers and traditional landowners with diversified income streams. 

Highest MGO Levels Available 

From everyday wellness with MGO100+ through to our rare Heirloom Collection MGO2200+, Gather By produces honey across the full potency spectrum. Each level is designed for specific uses, whether it is stirred into tea, taken daily for immunity, or applied to wounds and skin. 

Sustainability at Heart 

We partner with local farmers and First Nations communities, ensuring that every jar of honey supports local agriculture. By choosing Gather By, you are not only protecting your health but also helping planting flowers for the bees