Key Differences Between Manuka and Regular Honey

November 21, 2025

One thing about operating a natural products shop is the conversations that I have with customers. And Manuka honey keeps surfacing in those conversations.

Manuka honey is a key ingredient in many natural skincare products. But what else is it good for? Here’s a detailed breakdown of what sets Manuka honey apart.

Manuka honey is uniquely prized for its medicinal-grade antibacterial properties, which are far stronger and more stable than those found in regular honey.

Key Differences Between Manuka and Regular Honey

1. Botanical Origin

Manuka honey is made from the nectar of the Leptospermum scoparium (Manuka bush), native to New Zealand and parts of Australia.
Regular honey comes from a wide variety of floral sources like clover, wildflowers, or acacia.

2. Antibacterial Power

Manuka honey contains methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its potent antibacterial effects.
Regular honey has hydrogen peroxide-based antibacterial activity, which is less stable and degrades over time.

3. UMF Rating System

Manuka honey is graded using the UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor) system, which measures MGO, DHA, and leptosperin levels to verify authenticity and potency.
Regular honey lacks a standardized medicinal grading system.

4. Therapeutic Uses

Manuka honey is used in wound care, skin treatments, sore throat remedies, and even in clinical settings due to its antimicrobial properties.
Regular honey is mostly used for culinary purposes and mild home remedies.

5. Taste and Texture

Manuka honey has a stronger, earthier, and slightly bitter taste with a thicker, creamier texture.
Regular honey tends to be sweeter and lighter, both in flavor and consistency.

6. Price and Rarity

Manuka honey is significantly more expensive due to limited geographic production, rigorous testing, and high demand.
Regular honey is widely available and more affordable.

7. Shelf Stability

Manuka honey’s antibacterial properties remain stable over time, making it ideal for long-term medicinal use.
Regular honey may lose potency as its hydrogen peroxide content degrades.