How to Use Manuka Honey for Maximum Health Benefits

Medicinal Manuka honey, renowned for its powerful antimicrobial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties, has become a popular natural remedy for a range of health concerns. From cold and flu relief to promoting gut health, boosting immunity, and supporting general wellness, its medicinal applications are diverse. But knowing how to use Manuka honey - the right strength, dose, and method for your specific health needs - is what separates good results from great ones.

Sourced from the nectar of native Australian Leptospermum (Manuka) trees growing in the remote bushland, forests, and rainforests of Queensland and New South Wales, Manuka honey contains a unique bioactive compound called Methylglyoxal (MGO) that sets it apart from all other honey varieties.

What is MGO?

MGO is the naturally occurring compound responsible for Manuka honey's potent antimicrobial activity. The higher the MGO number on the label, the greater the concentration of this bioactive compound, and the more targeted the therapeutic potential. Every batch of Biosota Manuka honey is independently laboratory-tested to verify its MGO rating, ensuring you receive the strength you pay for.

But how do you know how much Manuka honey to take, how to use it, and how often? Whether you're taking it straight from the jar, stirring it into warm water, or applying it topically to skin, the way you use Manuka honey matters as much as the strength you choose. 

Here are our recommendations on how to use Manuka honey, tailored to a range of health needs.

How to use Manuka honey for optimal gut health

Australian Manuka Honey MGO 880+	Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1200+

How to use Manuka honey for colds, coughs, sore throat and flu

Manuka honey is widely used as a natural option for colds, flu, coughs, and sore throats, thanks to its antimicrobial properties and soothing effect on irritated tissues.

This is supported by clinical research, including a 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, which analysed 14 studies and found that honey was more effective than usual care in reducing cough frequency, severity, and overall upper respiratory symptoms (3).

More recent findings continue to support this role. A 2023 systematic review in the European Journal of Paediatrics reported that honey may outperform over-the-counter cough medications in relieving symptoms in children over 12 months of age (4), further reinforcing its value as a gentle, natural alternative for respiratory support.

Recommended ways to use: 

From the jar: At the peak of your cold or infection, take one to two teaspoons of medicinal Manuka honey up to twice daily. This can help ease a sore throat, suppress coughing, and boost your immune system to fight off infection. As symptoms improve, gradually reduce your intake to one teaspoon a day.

Add to: Mix one teaspoon of Manuka honey into warm (not boiling) water or tea, with a squeeze of lemon for added vitamin C. Avoid high heat, as temperatures above 40°C may reduce its natural bioactivity, including MGO levels. This simple combination helps soothe the throat while gently hydrating and supporting overall wellbeing.

Make this: Honey and Ginger Tea - Add one teaspoon of Manuka honey, fresh ginger, and a dash of lemon to warm water. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of ginger and honey work together to soothe sore throats and coughs.

Which strength is best for colds, coughs, sore throat and flu?

Australian Manuka Honey MGO 550+	Australian Manuka Honey MGO 880+

Note: Do not give honey to children under 12 months of age due to the risk of infant botulism.

How to use Manuka honey for wounds and skin infections

Thanks to its high concentration of MGO, high-grade Manuka honey has strong antimicrobial properties that make it well suited for topical use on skin infections, wounds, and burns. It not only helps support the natural healing process, but also soothes, moisturises, and helps protect the skin from further infection.

This role is supported by a growing body of research. A 2024 systematic review and meta-analysis published in Nutrients found that honey dressings significantly accelerated wound healing time and improved overall healing rates compared to conventional treatments (5).

Additional studies reinforce these findings - research in AIMS Microbiology (2024) highlights its use in pharmaceutical wound care formulations (6), while a 2020 study in Scientific Reports demonstrated activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a strain resistant to many conventional antibiotics (7).

Together, these findings support Manuka honey’s role as a natural, effective option for topical skin care and wound support.

Recommended ways to use: 

For wounds, burns & infections: 

1. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the affected area.

2. Gently apply a liberal layer of Manuka honey directly to the cut, burn, or site of infection.

3. Cover with a sterile bandage.

4. Leave overnight and change the dressing when saturated, or as needed.

5. Repeat until healing is observed.

For skin conditions such as acne and eczema:

• Use as a cleanser by massaging the honey all over your face gently for a few minutes. Rinse and pat dry.

• Alternatively, apply as a mask, leaving it on for 15–20 minutes, then rinse off with water.

Which strength is best for skin infections and wound healing?

Skin infections: Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1200+	Wounds, ulcers and burns: Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1717+

For serious wounds or persistent infections, please consult a healthcare professional before use.

How to use Manuka honey for immune support

Rich in antioxidants, enzymes, and natural bioactive compounds like MGO, Manuka honey is highly regarded for its potential to support and strengthen the immune system.

Recommended ways to use:

From the jar: Take one teaspoon of Manuka honey daily to support overall immunity, especially during cold and flu season. 

Add to: Add one teaspoon to your favourite smoothie, muesli or warm (not boiling) herbal tea to boost your nutrient intake.

Which strength is best for building immunity?

Australian Manuka Honey MGO 550+	Australian Manuka Honey MGO 880+

How to use Manuka honey for cancer support

Manuka honey may offer supportive benefits during cancer care because preclinical research suggests it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties.

A 2021 review in Nutrients found that honey and its flavonoids showed immunostimulatory and anti-inflammatory effects in preclinical studies, with potential as complementary adjuvants in cancer, although more research is needed (8).

In a separate UCLA study published in Nutrients, Manuka honey significantly reduced tumor growth in ER-positive breast cancer mouse models by 84%, reduced cancer cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, and appeared to enhance the effect of tamoxifen (9).

While these findings are promising, they are preclinical and Manuka honey should only be considered as a supportive food within a care plan guided by a healthcare professional.

Recommended ways to use:

Take one teaspoon of Manuka honey daily to:

• Bolster overall health & immune support: Helps combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation and fight infections.
  
  
• Ease the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation - Manuka honey helps protect organs from the toxic effects of chemotherapy drugs and assists in healing associated wounds such as mouth, throat and digestive ulcers.
  
  
• Provide an energy boost - Helps bolster natural energy and support digestion during treatment.

Which strength is best for supporting cancer recovery?

Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1200+	Australian Manuka Honey MGO 1717+

MGO Strength Quick-Reference Guide

Not sure which strength to choose? This table summarises the recommended MGO ratings covered in this guide.

For a full breakdown of MGO ratings and what the numbers mean, visit our Manuka honey MGO guide.

Explore Biosota's Medicinal Manuka Honey Range

Medicinal Manuka honey provides a natural complement to a wide range of health and wellness goals. Choosing the right MGO strength for your specific needs is key to experiencing its full potential.

If you’re unsure where to start, take our Manuka Honey Strength Quiz to find the right MGO for you

Explore our premium range of medicinal Manuka honey today to experience its unique bioactivity, or if you're new to Manuka honey, our guide to Manuka honey benefits is a helpful place to begin.

* Dosage and individual results may vary. Please consult your healthcare provider before beginning any treatment and if symptoms persist.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Use Manuka Honey

How much Manuka honey should I take per day?

For general wellness and immune support, one teaspoon (approximately 7–8 g) per day is a practical starting point. For targeted health concerns such as digestive flare-ups or active infections, 1–2 teaspoons up to twice daily is commonly recommended. Dosage and individual results may vary; consult your healthcare provider for personalised guidance.

Can I take Manuka honey on an empty stomach?

Yes. Taking Manuka honey on an empty stomach is often recommended for gut health applications, as it allows the bioactive compounds to reach the digestive tract without being diluted by food. For immune support or general wellness, timing is flexible.

Does heating Manuka honey destroy its properties?

Heat above approximately 40°C can degrade MGO and reduce the bioactivity of Manuka honey. Always add it to warm (not boiling or hot) water or food. Never cook with high-MGO Manuka honey if you intend to preserve its medicinal properties.

How long does it take for Manuka honey to work?

This varies depending on the health concern and the individual. Some people notice improvement in sore throat or digestive symptoms within a day or two of consistent use. For skin conditions and wound healing, results are typically observed over several days to weeks of regular application.

What is the difference between MGO 550 and MGO 1200?

MGO refers to the concentration of Methylglyoxal in the honey, measured in milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg). MGO 550 contains at least 550 mg/kg of MGO, while MGO 1200 contains at least 1,200 mg/kg. Higher MGO ratings indicate greater antimicrobial potency and are typically recommended for more targeted or intensive health applications.

Is Manuka honey safe for children?

Manuka honey is not suitable for infants under 12 months of age due to the risk of infant botulism. For children over 12 months, it is generally considered safe in the amounts used as a food. For health-specific use in children, consult a healthcare professional first.

Can I use Manuka honey alongside prescribed medication?

Manuka honey is best used as a complementary addition to, not a replacement for, any prescribed treatment plan. Always consult your healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, particularly if you are on medication or undergoing medical treatment.

References