New Zealanders or Kiwis possess a powerful ingredient known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial benefits—the manuka honey. Manuka honey is an edible substance produced and created from the Manuka bush’s nectar. In 1981, the health benefits of this sweet substance were discovered by Dr Peter Nolan. His immersive study led to the revelation of the multiple advantages that this specific type of honey can bring.
The most notable health benefits of manuka honey are as follows:
- Reduce the development of free radicals in the body
- Protect the body from oxidative damage
- Boost the system’s immunity against viruses
- Soothe and heal burns and eye infections
- Prevent irritation and infection on open wounds
- Speed up the healing process of injuries
- Alleviate digestive problems such as diarrhea and constipation
- Increase the production of B vitamins, calcium, iron, potassium, protein, and zinc
- Fight off bacteria-causing stomach ulcer and inflammation
- Add a stronger layer of protection for teeth and gums against plaque, germs, and decay
- Unclog pores, get rid of acne, and prevent it from resurfacing and spreading
Since honey is edible, nutritionists highly recommend that people try to include it in their daily diet. Preferably, it should be eaten raw. In this manner, your body can absorb all the nutritious ingredients and properties that it offers. But, if you are not comfortable eating manuka honey in its original form, you can always try other equally delectable options:
1. Replace sugar with it.
Do you love coffee or tea? If so, why not replace the usual sugar with a healthier sweetener? Mixing manuka honey in your morning and afternoon cup is said to pack more flavour and a tolerable dose of sweetness in your taste buds.
2. Make a salad dressing.
Yes, you read that right. Some people combine manuka honey with vinegar and olive oil and use it as a dressing for their salad. Some pour the sweet substance as it is on their favourite bowl of greens.
3. Use it as a smoothie base.
Healthy smoothies make for a guilt-free and tasty dessert. Unfortunately, some smoothies either taste too sweet or lack flavour. One of the best solutions to make smoothies more delicious is—you guessed it right—adding a good dose of New Zealand honey into the ice-cold mixture.
4. Pair it with bread, pancakes, and peanut butter.
The faint taste of bread complements the sweetness of the honey. Spread it on your morning toast, or combine it with peanut butter to make a delectable sandwich. Pour it over a tower of fluffy pancakes for that added satisfying syrupy touch.
5. Transform it into a dip.
If you prefer eating honey in smaller and more controlled portions, why not use it as a dip for kale chips, roasted almonds and nuts, and even fried fish? You may not know it, but honey is quite a versatile ingredient because it can be added to enhance both sweet and savoury dishes.
6. Create a signature barbecue glaze or sauce.
Impress your family and friends by creating a delectably tangy barbecue sauce or glaze using manuka honey. Combine it with apple cider vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and your choice of additional spices.
7. Make it the star of your baking recipes.
There are tons of baked goodies that honey can help make more irresistible. You can make brownies, cupcakes, and fudge infused with the gooey goodness of honey.
Manuka honey is good for your taste buds and your health. The next time you want to spice things up in the kitchen, make sure to try the sweet and tempting suggestions listed above!
Author bio: Helen Harry is a freelance writer and a GOT fan. Apart from writing Technologies, she likes to read & write fiction. More than anything, she loves to spend her time with her family, explaining technologies to the elders.