Is Manuka Honey Nature's Antibiotic? Exploring the Science and Benefits

For centuries, honey has been revered as nature's golden remedy. But in recent decades, a specific type of honey has stood out for its potent health-supporting properties: Manuka Honey. Sourced from the nectar of Australian native Leptospermum plants, Manuka Honey has gained international attention for its unique antibacterial characteristics - a key reason behind the growing interest in Manuka honey benefits such as wound healing, digestive support, and skin health. But is it accurate to call it a "natural antibiotic"? Let’s explore the science.

What Makes Manuka Honey Special?

Unlike regular honey, Manuka Honey contains high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its unique antibacterial potency. This compound is formed from dihydroxyacetone (DHA), naturally present in the nectar of some Leptospermum plants. The higher the MGO level, the greater the antibacterial activity.

Gather By's Raw Manuka Honey is independently lab-tested for MGO content, and we are proud to offer some of the highest MGO Manuka Honeys in the world — including rare releases of MGO2000+ and MGO2200+.

What Does the Research Say?

A growing body of peer-reviewed studies has confirmed the antibacterial efficacy of high-grade Manuka Honey. Key research includes:

• University of Waikato (NZ) and University of Technology Sydney (UTS) studies showing Manuka's effect against antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
• Clinical reviews demonstrating Manuka Honey’s ability to reduce inflammation, support wound healing, and prevent bacterial infections.
• Laboratory studies confirming its ability to break down bacterial biofilms and inhibit the growth of harmful pathogens.

While these findings are remarkable, it's important to note that many studies are based on medical-grade Manuka Honey used under clinical supervision.

Can Manuka Honey Be Called a Natural Antibiotic?

Scientifically, yes — Manuka Honey demonstrates broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. However, in Australia, unless your product is registered with the TGA, it cannot be promoted as a medicine or a therapeutic good. Therefore, while Gather By shares the science for educational purposes, we do not make therapeutic claims.

We prefer to say:

"Manuka Honey supports natural health and wellbeing, with properties that have been widely studied for their antibacterial and healing potential."

Why Gather By Manuka Honey Stands Out

At Gather By, we are committed to producing raw, cold-extracted, additive-free Manuka Honey that preserves nature's original integrity. Our honey is:

• Sourced from wild and cultivated high-DHA Manuka forests in Australia
• Free from sugar-feeding, chemicals, or antibiotics
• Independently tested for MGO and purity
• Certified BQUAL, HACCP, Halal, and Department of Agriculture accredited
• Packaged in biophotonic glass jars to preserve quality and potency

We also lead the way in regenerative farming. Our Medicinal Honey Forests (MHF™) feature scientifically selected Manuka plants and bee fodder species to support year-round bee health and honey productivity. Over 200,000 plants have been established, with a further 125,000 planned.

Final Thoughts

While we cannot promote our Manuka Honey as a medicine, we believe in the power of nature backed by science. The raw Manuka honey benefits we deliver are a result of a decade of research, passion, and respect for the land and our beekeepers.

Explore the world's highest MGO Manuka Honey and experience the richness of Australia’s natural ecosystems in every jar.

This blog is intended for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.