What is Medical Grade Honey (And Should You Use It?)
When it comes to natural remedies, medical grade honey is a standout choice, known for its exceptional purity and potential health benefits. But what makes medical grade honey different from the regular honey you might add to your tea or yogurt? Let’s look into what medical grade honey is and explore its uses beyond the kitchen.
What Exactly Is Medical Grade Honey?
Medical grade honey is a specialised type of honey that is sterilised and processed under strict quality controls, ensuring it is free from contaminants. While it is similar to the honey you might buy in a store, medical grade honey is specifically prepared to have consistent antibacterial properties. It often comes from the nectar of the Manuka bush in New Zealand, though other varieties are also used and Australian varieties are becoming more widely known.
How Does It Differ from Regular Honey?
The main distinction between medical grade honey and typical table honey is in its preparation and purity. Medical grade honey is treated to remove any impurities and is tested to ensure it maintains a high level of antibacterial activity. This makes it a preferred choice for those looking for a more potent version of honey for personal use.
Why Opt for Medical Grade Honey?
Natural Skin Care
Many people find medical grade honey to be an excellent choice for natural skincare. Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can be used as a face mask or a soothing remedy for minor skin irritations.
Home Remedy for Minor Burns and Wounds
At home, medical grade honey can be applied to minor burns, cuts, and scrapes to help protect against infection and support the healing process. Its ability to draw moisture out of wounds helps keep them clean and aids in faster healing.
Supporting Digestive Health
Some folks also turn to medical grade honey to support digestive health. Although not a replacement for medical treatment, it is sometimes used as a soothing agent for minor throat irritations or digestive issues.
Practical Uses of Medical Grade Honey
While medical grade honey can be a potent natural remedy, it's important to use it wisely. Here are some practical ways to incorporate it into your home care routine:
As a skin treatment: Apply directly to the skin or mix with other natural ingredients to create soothing masks.
For minor wounds: Use it as a salve for small cuts, burns, or abrasions.
In beverages: Add it to warm tea or water as a soothing drink.
Things to Consider
Not everyone should use medical grade honey. Those with allergies to bee products should avoid it, and it's always a good idea to test it on a small area of skin first if you're using it topically. Always source your medical grade honey from reputable suppliers to ensure you're getting a high-quality product.
Conclusion
Medical grade honey is more than just a sweetener; it's a versatile natural remedy that many people find beneficial for various personal health and skincare uses. While it's not a cure-all, its unique properties make it a worthy addition to your home wellness toolkit. Whether you're using it for minor wounds, skin care, or simply as an enhanced natural sweetener, medical grade honey offers a touch of nature's magic.
Albert Van Dijk
