Why Manuka Honey?

The science, the story and the power of true Australian Manuka

Manuka honey has earned global recognition as one of nature’s most extraordinary health foods. But to understand why it is so prized, you need to begin with the plant itself, the bees who transform it and the land where it grows. These three elements work together to create one of the most potent natural substances on earth.

The True Origins of Manuka Honey

Australian native Manuka plants and their unique chemistry

New Zealand may have popularised Manuka honey, but the story begins in Australia. Australia is home to eighty-seven species of Leptospermum, the native shrubs whose nectar becomes Manuka honey. Fourteen of these Australian species contain naturally high levels of dihydroxyacetone (DHA), the compound that bees later convert into methylglyoxal (MGO).

New Zealand’s Manuka industry is built largely on Leptospermum scoparium, a single species that originated here on Australia’s east coast. Over the past two centuries, vast areas of these plants were removed to make way for cotton, corn, sugarcane and now almonds. Yet hidden in Australia’s landscapes is a genetic treasure: diverse, high-active Manuka species capable of producing some of the strongest Manuka honeys in the world.

Why Australian Manuka Honey Is Superior

The power of biodiversity, climate and natural resilience

Australia’s natural diversity provides several advantages that cannot be replicated in single-species systems.

• Higher DHA and MGO potential
  Many Australian Leptospermum species produce nectar with extremely high DHA. This gives Australian Manuka the ability to reach ultra-premium MGO levels, including grades above MGO1200 and even MGO2200.
• Longer flowering season
  Multiple species bloom at different times. This extends the Manuka season and supports more consistent production.
• Natural resilience
  A diverse ecosystem is better able to withstand climate variability, pests and diseases. This translates into healthier bees and more stable honey yields.
• Rich and complex flavour profiles
  Australian Manuka honeys often show deeper, more complex notes because different species contribute unique minerals and aromatic compounds.

This natural advantage is at the heart of Gather By’s mission. We use science, regenerative agriculture and the Medicinal Honey Forest model to turn Australia’s biodiversity into a global strength.

How Manuka Honey Works

From flower to hive to jar

1. DHA-rich nectar from Australian Manuka flowers
   High-activity Leptospermum flowers contain DHA in their nectar. DHA is the essential ingredient that determines a honey’s MGO potential.
2. Bees convert DHA to MGO
   Inside the hive, bees use enzymes, evaporation and natural curing to convert DHA into MGO. This conversion continues over time, which is why Manuka increases in strength as it matures.
3. Natural maturation increases potency
   Stored correctly, Manuka honey continues to convert DHA to MGO in the jar, reaching peak strength at around 12 to 18 months.
4. Every batch is validated through scientific testing
   Gather By independently tests every batch for MGO, DHA, HMF, Leptospermum markers and purity. Each jar includes a secure QR code that links to authentic laboratory results for full provenance.

What Makes Genuine Manuka Honey?

Understanding authenticity and purity

To be classified as true Manuka honey, it must contain:

• Verified Leptospermum nectar
• Naturally occurring MGO from DHA conversion
• Non-peroxide antibacterial activity
• Unique compounds like leptosperin and methyl syringate
• Clean, unadulterated honey with no added sugars or blends

Gather By meets and exceeds the Australian Manuka Honey Association (AMHA) authenticity standards.

Understanding Gather By’s MGO Ranges

Your guide to choosing the right Manuka honey for your needs

Gather By produces premium Australian Manuka across four clearly defined ranges.

Everyday Wellness Range • MGO100 to MGO300

Perfect for daily support. Helps maintain general wellness, immune balance, digestive health and gentle, natural vitality. Ideal for families and everyday nourishment.

Restorative Wellness Range • MGO600 to MGO900

Stronger antibacterial levels for deeper immune support, gut repair, post-exercise recovery and moderate skin healing. A versatile strength for those seeking more from their Manuka routine.

Platinum Range • MGO1200 to MGO2000

Premium therapeutic honey. Often used for advanced natural healing, targeted wellness goals, intensive skin support and times when maximum strength is needed.

The Heirloom Collection • MGO2200+

Ultra-rare, limited release Australian Manuka. Produced only in exceptional seasons from high-activity Medicinal Honey Forest sites. These honeys represent the pinnacle of natural potency and are among the strongest Manuka honeys in the world.

The Benefits of Manuka Honey

Scientifically supported, naturally powerful

1. Immune Support
   High-MGO Manuka helps the body fend off harmful microbes and supports immune function during times of stress or seasonal illness.
2. Digestive Health and Gut Repair
   Manuka’s natural prebiotic properties help nourish the microbiome, soothe the digestive tract and support overall gut health.
3. Skin Repair and Regeneration
   Manuka honey is used in dermatology and medical-grade wound care due to its ability to maintain moisture, reduce bacteria and support healing.
4. Natural Energy and Performance
   Its unique carbohydrates provide steady energy without spikes or crashes, making it ideal for athletes, busy professionals and daily vitality.
5. Anti-inflammatory Support
   Manuka helps calm inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting the body’s recovery from modern lifestyle pressures.
6. Powerful Antioxidants
   High-activity Manuka contains natural phenols and flavonoids that help protect cells from free radical damage.

Why Choose Gather By Manuka Honey?

Regenerative agriculture, scientific validation and complete transparency

Gather By is built on a simple belief. Better honey comes from better ecosystems.

Our Medicinal Honey Forest model ensures:

• Regenerative land practices that restore biodiversity
• Stronger, healthier bees supported by diverse fodder plants
• Multiple Australian Leptospermum species selected for high DHA
  Resilient ecosystems across different bioregions
  Full QR-code traceability and independent lab testing
• Premium quality from hive to jar

Every jar supports Australian growers, protects pollinators and helps rebuild damaged landscapes.