Manuka Honey

Diverticulitis is a disease caused by an infection in the gut and although it has been thoroughly studied medical professionals still do not completely understand its cause. It is believed however to be due to a low fiber diet. When one consumes a low fiber diet the intestines have to work harder (push harder) to move digested food through the bowel. It is believed that this increased pressure is what causes the small pockets in the intestines to form. However, many people can have these pockets and never feel any pain from it while other suffer with fever, chills, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and belly pain. (1) These symptoms are caused when food gets trapped in the pockets and the area becomes infected. One of the bacteria’s seen to increase in people is the bacteria C. difficile which is a bacteria that naturally exists in the gut. However, in the presence of inflammation and infection the good gut bacteria are reduced and can no longer keep this C. difficile in check. This however, is not the only bacteria that can flourish in the presence of infection caused my diverticulitis.

Although there are no direct studies on Manuka and diverticulitis if we look at the research that exists on manuka honey and digestive disorders I think we can draw the conclusion that it would be helpful to those who suffer from this condition. Manuka has been reported to have an inhibitory effect on 60 species of bacteria, some species of fungi and viruses. (4)Therefore, it has the ability to limit bacteria growth and reduce the chances of an infection when food gets trapped in these pouches.

Manuka honey’s antibacterial agent Methylglyoxal has been proven to work against a wide variety of pathogenic bacteria. In a study done in Wales, using Manuka 18+, provided evidence that manuka honey does exhibit bactericidal action against bacterial infection from C. difficile. (2) One of the most common bacterial infections to hospitalize people with gastrointestinal infections.

Oral administration of honey has also been found to protect against gastrointestinal infection through blocking the attachment of pathogenic microorganisms to the intestinal epithelium. This represents a potential strategy for disease prevention in the area of gastrointestinal infections according to a study done in 2013. Manuka honey has also been found to increases and support the growth of Bifidobacterium via the presence of a variety of oligosaccharides. (3) Bifidobacterium is one of the good gut bacteria that works to keep the gut healthy. Recent studies also suggest that honey is able to inhibit inflammatory parameters caused by bacterial infections.(4)

But how do we know what or how much to take. This is an important key to know when using Manuka honey as an alternative treatment. The first step is to know is where the manuka honey is from. Most studies have confirmed that manuka from New Zealand or Australia have higher antibacterial properties than honeys from other countries. The two activity ratings that are accepted in the health food industry are UMF, which is your high grade activity, and biologically active, which is your lower grade of activity. For use as an alternative treatment for intestinal infection and inflammation 1 teaspoon twice a day of UMF 10-15+ should be used during flare ups. This can be taken straight off the spoon or diluted in warm water. For day to day maintenance however a biologically active honey of 10-15 should suffice in the most case of diverticulitis. This can be used freely as it is the lower activity. However, as UMF is the only regulated certification one should be wary of biologically active claims and make sure that your supplier is getting third party testing on the honeys activity and not just claiming its activity. Pacific Resources was the first to introduce Active Manuka Honey in 1989, has the largest selection and  has all of their biologically active honeys tested and will happily supply a certification on the rated level for their products from a reliable third party lab.

(1) http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/tc/diverticulitis-topic-overview#1

(2) Prakash, A., Medhi, B., Avti, P. K., Saikia, U. N., Pandhi, P., & Khanduja, K. L. (2008, August 07). Effect of different doses of Manuka honey in experimentally induced inflammatory bowel disease in rats. Retrieved March 20, 2017, from http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2523/abstract

(3) Eteraf-Oskouei, T., & Najafi, M. (2013, June). Traditional and Modern Uses of Natural Honey in Human Diseases: A Review. Retrieved March 20, 2017, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3758027/

(4) Hammond, E. N., & Donkor, E. S. (2013, May 07). Antibacterial effect of Manuka honey on Clostridium difficile. Retrieved March 20, 2017, from http://bmcresnotes.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1756-0500-6-188

This blog article is intended to give clarity to consumers that they are buying certified Manuka Honey that contains antibacterial properties. Mark Twain once penned, “There are lies, damn lies, and statistics!” Too often slick marketers confuse consumers through misdirection – and that includes manipulating the grading systems of Manuka Honey.

But First, Why Manuka Honey Is So Unique

Manuka Honey is sought after because it contains antibacterial activity. All honey starts out with these properties but when it is heated for pasteurization, the heat severely degrades the hydrogen peroxide inherent in honey and therefore degrades the antibacterial honey – but Manuka Honey still displays antibacterial properties even after pasteurization!

However, NOT all “marketed” Manuka Honey has these antibacterial properties, hence the creation of a grading system that measures the active ingredient methylglyoxal (MGO) responsible for these properties. Numbers can be misleading – it’s not always the higher the number the better the honey – it’s about the medicinal properties the honey contains and what grading system is used. For example, a UMF 10+ factor is much better than a KFactor 22 as explained below.

The Four Most Common Grading Systems and Which Are Best

• UMF 10+ (Unique Manuka Factor) – this grading is run by the reputable UMF Honey Association and is considered the gold standard by New Zealand as the most reliable grading method for non- peroxide activity (NPA) and purity.

Pacific Resources International (PRI) uses the UMF grading system for its UMF product range of Manuka Honey. The PRI Manuka range is tested for the combined peroxide (PA) and non-peroxide (NPA) activity. This range generally has a lower UMF rating so is not rated as UMF but still very effective. Independent lab tests are available for every jar of honey.

• KFactor 22 – this grading system was created and used exclusively by one Manuka Honey supplier. It is misleading in that their grading system (for marketing purposes) measures purity, NOT the antibacterial properties.
• Bio Active 24+ – Other companies use grading systems labeled ‘active’ or ‘bio-active’; these are misleading and do not contain significant quantities of antibacterial activity and may not be 100% Manuka.
• MGS – The Molan Gold Standard (MGS) was created by Dr. Peter Molan, the New Zealand scientist who originally discovered the antibacterial activity of Manuka Honey.

The Bottom Line – Bee Informed

Look for a product with the label designation of UMF Manuka Honey and MGS. Third party independent testing and verification ensure the quality of the honey that’s in the bottle will match or exceed what’s on the label.

You deserve the best and have confidence that you are buying the highest quality of Manuka Honey from New Zealand.

Manuka honey has been popularly known for its health benefits, with its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, many people have gained its goodness. But are you wondering what is so special in Manuka honey and why it should be an essential in your kitchen and your natural remedy cabinet?

Let us first talk about what is Manuka honey. It is a honey made by bees that pollinate the flowers of a native tree in New Zealand called the manuka bush.It’s been used for centuries for its medicinal effects such as for treating wounds, burns, soothes inflammation and improves digestive symptoms. Manuka honey is a great vitamins and mineral source.

What’s so special about Manuka honey is that it has a Unique Manuka Factor or UMF. It is a classification that determines the potency of Manuka honey. The numbers in the UMF Manuka Honey jars refer to the antibacterial property in the honey at the time of its packaging. A UMF Manuka honey 10+ and above is considered to be “medicinal grade”.

Choosing the right Manuka honey depends on your plans on how to use it. Here are several ways on how to make use of  Manuka honey and experience its health benefits.

•  As a cough elixir- just add 1-2 teaspoons of UMF Manuka honey into warm water mixed with a squeeze of half a lemon.  You can also try other Manuka honey product like the Propolis and Manuka Honey Cough Elixir. It contains NPA 10+ Manuka honey which can help relieve dry cough.
•  As an immune system booster- Mix UMF Manuka honey into your daily tea to boost your immune system.
• As a wound dressing- apply a thin layer of manuka honey on a bandage before putting it on the wound or skin. It’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties will aid in fast wound healing.
• For sleep troubles- Stir some Manuka honey into your warm milk or non-caffeinated tea and consume before bedtime to have a goodnight sleep.
• Prevent Gingivitis or Cavities- chew or have some Manuka honey, this will help reduce bacteria formation thus preventing tooth cavities and other gum problems.
• Use as a Face Mask- Manuka honey can be used as a great face mask. Keep your skin moisturized and nourished by adding manuka honey in your daily skin care routine. Put on a few drops of Rose oil to Manuka honey and New Zealand Sea Salt mixture to create a face mask. Apply on to skin and put on for 5-10 minutes then rinse.
• Use as a natural remedy for split ends and dry hair- Manuka honey mixed with olive oil makes a natural remedy for split ends and dry hair. Apply on to dry hair and leave it for 20-30 minutes, rinse and shampoo your hair well after.

Surely, Manuka honey has proven its versatility with its different uses. It is up to you on how you maximize the health goodness Manuka honey gives.

Manuka honey has been popular since the earliest times. Apart from being generally used as food, it has literally been used during ancient years to treat multiple conditions. Due to the rise and the discovery of antibiotics in the 20th century, it has lost its reputation. Today, health care practitioners are looking for effective and natural products that combat infection and limit resistance to antibiotics, that’s why they are taking another look at this “wonder food”.

Manuka honey is the most commonly used honey today. It is produced by the bees that pollinate Manuka trees from Australia and New Zealand. It is known to have the highest level of antibacterial activity of all honey.

MGO and UMF Manuka Honey

Most honey has hydrogen peroxide which gives its antibiotic nature. Aside from hydrogen peroxide, Manuka honey has other ingredients that have antibiotic qualities.

One major antibacterial component of Manuka honey is Methylglyxal (MG). It comes from the conversion of another compound, dihydorxyacetone, which is found in high concentration in the nectar of manuka flowers. The antibiotic effect of Manuka honey is stronger if the MG concentration is higher. [1]

Unique Manuka Factor is a scale used to rate the potency of manuka honey. It reflects the concentration of MG. To be considered potent enough to be therapeutic, manuka honey needs a minimum rating of 10 UMF. Honey at or above that level is marketed as "UMF Manuka Honey" or "Active Manuka Honey.

Medical Grade Honey

A medical- grade honey has undergone different processes to ensure it is free from contaminants. Gamma irradiation, filtration and lab controlled conditions are a few of those processes that secure its efficacy.

Manuka honey has antibacterial properties that help fight infections and contribute to wound healing. It eliminates Gram- positive and Gramo negative pathogens as well as fungi and yeasts. It is also useful against various organisms such as drug resistant organisms like methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and vancomycin-resitant enterococcus. The acidic properties of honey keep the pH relatively low (3.5-6), that inhibits growth and promotes healing of wounds. [2] It has also anti- inflammatory capabilities that speed up healing of wounds.

Pacific Resources International, Inc. offers various natural products for your needs from high MG and UMF Manuka honey jars, Manuka honey candies, body care and health care products. You may also check our website: www.shoppri.com for your convenience.

Manuka Honey is a great source for many healthy benefits. Here are 6 great reasons why you should be eating more honey!

1. Alleviate Allergies
2. Increase Athletic Performance
3. Help you Sleep
4. Fight Infections
5. Treat Dandruff
6. Treat Wounds

1. Honey can help reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergies. Natural raw honey contains small amounts of pollen and after repeated exposure the body becomes accustomed to their presence resulting in a lesser allergic reaction.

2. An excellent source of all-natural energy. Studies have found that UMF Manuka Honey can maintain glycogen levels and improve recovery time after a workout. At just 17 grams of carbohydrates per tablespoon, this natural unprocessed sugar can directly enter the bloodstream and can deliver a quick boost of energy. The rise in blood sugar acts as a short-term energy source for your workout, especially in long endurance exercises.

3.  Honey can help you sleep. Sleeping problems are a common but thankfully honey can be used as a health aid for sleepless nights. Similar to sugar, honey can cause a rise in insulin and release serotonin which is a neurotransmitter that is known to improve mood. Try the famous milk and honey tip. Before going to bed, take glass of warm milk and mix it with a spoon of pure honey.

4. Assist in fighting infections. studies have found that Manuka Honey may be effective for the treatment of infection. Dr. Rowena Jenkins and colleagues, from the University of Wales Institute, reported that Manuka Honey kills bacteria by destroying key bacterial proteins.

5. Honey can be used to treat dandruff due to its antibacterial and anti fungal properties, as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis are often caused by an overgrowth of fungus on the scalp. “Honey also has anti-inflammatory properties, which address the redness and itching on the scalp,” Dr Matthew Brennecke says.

6. Great for treating wounds and burns. Many studies have confirmed these properties help wounds and helping the cut or burn heal faster.

Honey can be used for many different ways. Pacific Resources’ New Zealand Manuka Honey is the perfect honey for whole body care!

Visit our website for all your favorite NZ Manuka Honey.

Source:

Farah, F., Desi Blitz: “Why you should be eating honey,” http://www.desiblitz.com/content/why-honey-is-so-good-for-you

So what can you do if seasonal allergies are hitting you harder than ever? Due to climate change, seasonal allergies may be getting worse. Experts say climate change is causing more pollen to be released into the air, it also means sneezing, itching, runny nose and watery eyes symptoms. 

One of the remedies touted is using an all-natural alternative like local honey. The belief is that when you consume and ingest small amounts of local pollen it builds up immunity. There are some hopeful studies showing that this natural sweetener could help, but the scientific evidence is limited.

A 2002 study at the University of Connecticut compared three groups, with the first receiving locally-produced, unfiltered honey, the second with nationally-produced, filtered honey and the third honey-flavored corn syrup. There was no difference between the three in reducing the symptoms. 

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology wind blown pollen is what most are allergic to and bees don’t pollinate these sources, therefore the pollen from these sources doesn’t make it into the honey. 

Additionally, very very little pollen makes it into honey at all. Even if you are allergic to a plant source the bees DO pollinate, there is no way of knowing if that particular pollen is in your local honey without testing and it’s unlikely to be consistent from batch to batch.

One study suggests that it might also be about the type of honey but the bottom line is no honey can actually cure your allergies. For the best natural allergy symptom relief, give Manuka honey a shot! Manuka has a number of health benefits that other honey does not have. It is the only honey that exhibits non-peroxide activity due to the MG or Methylglyoxal component that is present. It is the compound that makes Manuka Honey unique. It contains antioxidants, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that have been shown to help alleviate the symptoms of allergies and recover faster. This is what we’re searching for!

For delicious allergy relief without all the toxic ingredients found in most OTC products & prescriptions incorporate other natural herbs into a honey infusion. Honey is hydrophilic, which means it draws water from plants. When honey is infused with fresh herbs, it creates a syrup-like infusion filled with flavor and benefits of the herbs used. 

Snacking has become a part of everyone’s daily routine. Adults and children need snacks. Snacks are essential for giving us energy, vitamins and nutrients throughout the day. It keeps us from being hungry and overeating at mealtime. For children, snacks give them energy they need to grow and play.  The drawback is that excessive snacking can lead to health problems and sometimes obesity. That is why we need to know how to snack healthy.

Manuka Honey Nuggets are healthy natural treats for not just for children but to all ages as well. These are perfect for everyday snacks, great for your sweet cravings, suited for sporting events and you can just even add it as a sweetener in your hot beverage. These treats come in different flavors:  Manuka Honey, Ginger and Lemon and contain Manuka Honey 5+.

Manuka Honey Nuggets are 100% natural, with no artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, certified by QAI, a leader in orgarnic certification services. These are gluten free and made in U.S.A.

 Enjoy the taste of these guilt free Manuka Honey Nuggets anytime, anywhere.

Buy now at Pacific Resources International and grab the BUY ONE GET ONE FREE offer for the Ginger Nuggets for a limited time only! 

Are you having a hard time looking for that perfect gift to give your mom, your sister or your friend? Finding that ideal gift can be very stressful. To reduce your stress and anxiety, Pacific Resources International offers you awesome gift boxes for different special people and for different occasions, from starter kits, stay well kits to beauty kits that they will surely love.

Manuka Honey Box is a delightful box full of Manuka honey goodies. A combination of Manuka honeys, manuka classics, manuka treats and skin essentials all in one box. There are 9 boxes to choose from, each with a different set of manuka favorites.  

Here are 9 amazing Manuka Honey Boxes to choose from:

1. Manuka Starter Kit
2. Summer Kit
3. "Honey, I love You" Kit
4. Beauty Kit
5. Salty BBQ Kit
6. Stay-Well Kit
7. Sweets Box
8. Manuka TLC Box
9. *NEW* Manuka Lemon Bliss Box

Visit www.shoppri.com and get that perfect gift now!

Methylglyoxol (MG) is found in a range of food products including wine, beer, roasted coffee, bread, dairy products, soy sauce and lipids (fats). But the reason we are talking about it is because it also constitutes the major part of the total antibacterial activity found in New Zealand Manuka honey. MG is thought to increases significantly in plants that are exposed to stressors such as salinity, drought and cold. Fortunately for us Manuka honey grows well under just these types of conditions. It is often found on the steep erosion prone hill country of New Zealand and under these stressful condition it produces an excess of MG which is then transferred to the honey. (2)

MG occurs within honey as a non-enzymatic reaction, which is also known as caramelisation or The Maillard reaction. This process is desirable, as it is known for creating the desirable tastes and colors of cooked foods. It is also what gives honey its golden hue. (2) MG was pinpointed as the non-peroxide activity (NPA) of Manuka honey in 2008 by two independent laboratories. It occurs over time through the natural chemical transformations of DHA (dihydroxyacetone) a naturally occurring phyto-chemical present in the nectar of the Manuka flower. This naturally occurring substance has the ability to react with DNA and RNA. Therefore theoretically it could be toxic to humans, however there has been no evidence found that it does this. Instead it appears to have a selective toxicity only for bacteria cells making it the perfect product for reducing scaring and preventing bacterial infections when used either orally or as a wound dressing. (1)

Now that MG has been identified as the component that makes Manuka honey what it is, New Zealand is experimenting with growing Manuka plantations. Farmers often have land, which is not conducive to grazing and seek other opportunities to make money with this extra space. Until recently more often than not this land was leased to companies as logging plantations.

However, a study conducted in 2016 has show that plantation Manuka grown in specific provinces can produce Manuka nectar that contains double the amount of MG than indigenous Manuka. Indicating  the potential of farmers to produce high UMF honey and opening up a whole new avenue for revenue for local New Zealand Farmers. (3)

Sources

1. Carter, D. A., Blair, S. E., Cokcetin, N. N., Bouzo, D., Brooks, P., Schothauer, R., & Harry, E. J. (2016). Therapeutic Manuka Honey: No Longer So Alternative. Frontiers in Microbiology, 7, 569. http://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2016.00569
2. Adams C. J., Boult C. H., Deadman B. J., Farr J. M., Grainger M. N. C., Manley-Harris M., et al. (2008). Isolation by HPLC and characterisation of the bioactive fraction of New Zealand manuka (Leptospermum scoparium) honey. Carbohydr. Res.343 651–659. 10.1016/j.carres.2007.12.011
3. Millner J. P., Hamilton G., Ritchie C., Stephens J. (2016). High UMF honey production from manuka plantations. HSC Symposium. https://www.grassland.org.nz/publications/nzgrassland_publication_2772.pdf

Snacking is everyone’s favorite pastime. We eat to live but live to eat as well. With so many food options and the constant bombardment of the media, advertising, and our own sweet tooth, we seem to be thinking about food all the time. The downside of snacking is that it can lead to health problems and contribute to obesity.

Why Kids Need to Snack

In our society, children are the most vulnerable to peer pressure and outside influences. That’s why good parenting includes not only teaching good eating habits but also feeding them nutritious meals and of course, healthy snacks. Snacking is important for children because they have smaller stomachs along with a higher metabolism, unlike adults, so they need topping up more often. Children should snack every 3 to 4 hours throughout the day outside their meal times. Small, healthy snacks throughout the day prevent patterns of boredom eating or eating based on emotional factors.

Healthy Snacking

Studies have shown that children need to refuel throughout the day to maintain focus on academics and keep their energy levels up. That’s where snacking plays a crucial part. It’s also important that snacks be health-conscious and meet certain nutritional requirements to gain less weight and produce proper immune growth as they age.

Smart Snacking Ideas

Eating healthy in childhood builds a foundation of smart choices for a lifetime. Fruits, veggies, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products help prevent disease later in life. Sending healthy snacks with your children to school will help sustain your child throughout the day and give them a healthy start in life. Of course, children also want sweets, which may go against the grain of a “healthy diet.” However, there are snack treats from New Zealand available for children. Pacific Resources International (PRI) prides itself in providing healthy and tasty snacks made with nature’s best Manuka Honey as excellent alternatives to processed sugar products that have little or no nutritional value. Snack Healthy, Live Long!

The Truth About School Snacking

When we say goodbye to our children each morning as they toddle off to school, we hope they make good choices – of friends, in learning and eating. Junk food companies target kids because they know how “good” their products taste. How do you compete with a Twinkie vs celery! It’s crucial for parents to counteract these negative influences with teaching children “right from wrong” choices in snacks and empowering them to make the healthy choices. Thankfully there are many tasty and healthy snacks available. And today, kids can tell the difference with a little help from their parents!