Spicy, savory, salty and just the right amount of sweet - this pizza has it all! Using store bought crust makes it a quick & easy weeknight meal but we also included a link to our gluten free dough recipe in case you want to go all in.

If you’ve never tried hot honey on your pizza please be aware that it is highly addictive. Customize the spice level to your preference or just serve it on the side for those who can’t handle any heat. They’ll never know what they’re missing out on. 

Pair it with a simple side salad and you have a well-rounded meal and we’re not just talking about the shape of the pizza! 

Hot Manuka Honey

• ¼ cup PRI Manuka Honey 60+
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp hot sauce

Pizza Ingredients:

• 1 lb store-bought or homemade pizza dough 
• 1 jar pizza sauce (use as needed)
• 1 ½ cups low moisture mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 5-8 slices calabrese salami
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• fresh basil, thinly sliced for topping
• red pepper flakes, for topping
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning, for crust (optional)
• homemade hot manuka honey

Hot Honey Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine manuka honey, red pepper flakes and hot sauce.
2. Stir well on low heat, once it starts to bubble up (around 3 minutes) turn the heat off and continue to stir.
3. Strain the honey over a mesh sieve to remove the pepper flakes and transfer to a jar to cool. Set aside.

Pizza Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 475F, let pizza dough sit according to package instructions. 
2. Lightly flour a cutting board and roll out dough or use your hands to form the shape of pizza desired.
3. Place parchment paper over a pizza stone or pizza pan, then transfer the pizza dough onto it.
4. Cover the pizza with sauce, using as much or little as you like. Then top with a generous amount of low mozzarella, calabrese salami and red onion. Brush olive oil on the crust and sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on the edges.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden and the cheese has melted.
6. Remove from heat and top with fresh basil, red pepper flakes and a generous drizzle of hot honey over top.
7. Slice and enjoy!

Tis the season to be merry, as they say! But the holiday season can be the most stressful time of the year. The combination of large gatherings, the stress of gift buying, and significantly different eating habits can be rough on our bodies. During the holidays, there are many things you can do to protect your gut and support your health, without missing out on all the best parts of the holidays. 

• Reduce Stress and Make Time for Movement - Know your body and how to cope with stressful situations. Your digestive tract is also a muscle. Stress tends to slow the digestive process, including some time to relax or using the Moment to Myself Gift Box from PRI, time to exercise, and a simple walk can avoid heartburn and indigestion.

• Hydrate -  Drinking an adequate amount of water is necessary for flushing out our system, keeping our bodies balanced and can help to keep your digestive system hydrated and moving.

• Good Sleep - Sleep is a time to recover, get an adequate rest at least eight hours. Insufficient sleep can decrease the immune system, overall body and  muscle functionality.

• Take Prebiotics and Probiotics - Prebiotics are also important for your gut health, these foods feed the healthy bacteria in the gut. Probiotics help restore and rebuild the healthy bacteria in your gut, essentially helping remove the impurities.

• Improve Digestive Symptoms - Try to remember this season can create gastric distress that are associated with symptoms of constipation, bloating and reflux. To keep your digestive health in line, keep your fiber on your plate, don’t forget the fruits and veggies and try to eat more slowly to help avoid extra stress on your digestive system. Experts say that taking Manuka Honey is a popular home remedy to relieve digestive issues, the anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties can help heal and soothe digestion. 

Your gut is the foundation of your health and finding a good balance is vital. During this time gut health is often neglected. The holiday season should be spent enjoying time with family and friends, not worrying about your upset stomach. Give yourself the gift of good gut health, so you can enjoy this magical time of the year! 🎄

Resources:

https://www.cookinglight.com/eating-smart/nutrition-101/how-to-keep-gut-health-on-track-holidays

https://loveyourgut.com/news/gut-happy-holidays/

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/manuka-honey-uses-benefits#TOC_TITLE_HDR_6

· HONEY BEE COLONY AVERAGES 60,000 ·

it takes a large work force to produce Manuka honey. Honey Bees forage outside and collect nectar, pollen, and water. 

·IF THE QUEEN GOES MISSING, THE HIVE WILL NOTICE WITHIN 15 MINUTES ·

A main communication within the hive is pheromones, Bees communicate by touching antennas and pass along pheromones. Once the Queens pheromone levels drop they notice her absence and can become agitated. 

· FOR 1 POUND OF HONEY, BEES COLLECT NECTAR FROM 2 MILLION FLOWERS ·

Bees must visit a lot of flower blossoms to collect the watery nectar that will be transformed into honey. 

· ONLY FEMALE WORKER BEES STING ·

 If you get stung by a honey bee, it will be a female worker bee who does the job. Drones or male bees – do no work.  They do not forage or guard the hive so they do not need stingers. Honey bees are not aggressive but will sting in defense if they feel threatened. Bee stings hurt but they are not dangerous -if you are not allergic.

· WORKER BEES CHANGE JOBS OVER THE COURSE OF THEIR LIVES ·

 From nurse bees that feed young, to house bees who make honey and foragers who gather food.

· HONEY BEES ARE NOT NATIVE TO NORTH AMERICA ·

 Bees were brought over from Europe with early settlers. The bees liked life in the New World and spread into the forests.

• Ethical beekeeping places bee health and environmental stewardship above production quotas, ensuring stronger colonies and a sustainable ecosystem.

• Ethical beekeeping  utilizes remote, chemical-free foraging sites and minimal processing to preserve the honey’s natural enzymes and high MGO potency.

• Through independent lab testing and QR-code traceability, consumers can verify the authenticity and medicinal grade of every batch.

Manuka honey is widely recognized as a premium superfood, prized for its high methylglyoxal (MGO) content and unique antibacterial benefits. However, producing authentic honey from the short-blooming Leptospermum scoparium bush is difficult, especially given the remote terrain of New Zealand.

High demand and a narrow harvest window often lead to industry challenges like bee stress and honey fraud. Ethical beekeeping addresses these issues by prioritizing hive health over yield, ensuring purity and potency.

Pacific Resources International (PRI) has championed these sustainable methods for decades. This article explores how ethical beekeeping remains the gold standard for producing high-quality Manuka honey.

What is Ethical Beekeeping?

Ethical beekeeping is a method that puts the welfare of the honeybee at the center of all operations. It views bees as essential partners in a biological partnership rather than mere tools for production. 

This approach minimizes human interference and protects the environment to ensure the bees can thrive for years to come. It operates under the following key principles:

• Bee welfare first: The natural behaviors and health of the colony take precedence over reaching specific production quotas.

• Minimal intervention: Beekeepers limit hive inspections to what is strictly necessary. They use gentle techniques to keep stress levels low and provide hives with proper ventilation.

• Natural pest control: Instead of using synthetic chemicals or harsh pesticides, ethical beekeepers use hygiene and proactive monitoring to manage hive health.

• Sustainable harvesting: Beekeepers only take the surplus honey. They make sure the bees have enough of their own honey stores to survive the winter without needing artificial sugar syrups.

• Environmental stewardship: This involves protecting the native New Zealand terrain. Beekeepers place hives in pristine areas to avoid pollution and support local biodiversity.

• Respect for the ecosystem: Hives are not moved long distances unnecessarily. This local focus helps maintain a balanced environment.

The Importance of Ethical Beekeeping

Ethical beekeeping is essential for safeguarding bee populations and the environments they inhabit. By prioritizing the health of the hive and the ecosystem, these practices ensure a sustainable future for the industry and a superior product for consumers.

• Protects Bee Populations: Ethical standards protect bees from threats like habitat loss and disease by building stronger, more resilient colonies.

• Preserves Native Ecosystems: Responsible land management protects New Zealand’s unique flora and maintains environmental balance.

• Ensures Superior Quality: Ethical biokeeping introduces no contaminants during the process, allowing the honey produced to preserve its natural enzymes, pollen, and bioactive compounds.

• Supports Industry Sustainability: These methods provide a long-term path for the Manuka industry to meet global demand responsibly.

• Empowers Consumers: Buyers can trust that their purchase supports both their personal health and the well-being of the planet.

Key Aspects of Ethical Manuka Beekeeping

To produce authentic, high-potency Manuka honey, beekeepers must operate in harmony with nature’s strict timeline. Ethical beekeeping aligns with this requirement as it prioritizes the long-term health of the hive and the purity of the environment over mass production.

1. Strategic Site Selection

Hives are placed in New Zealand’s most remote regions to ensure bees forage almost exclusively on wild Manuka nectar. Ethical beekeepers select only chemical-free lands to protect the bees and prevent honey contamination.

2. Synchronized Blooming Cycles

Beekeepers must time hive placement perfectly with the short summer bloom. By respecting these natural cycles rather than forcing production, they ensure the honey captures the highest natural concentrations of bioactive compounds.

3. Natural Winter Rest

Unlike industrial operations that may overwork colonies, ethical practices allow bees to hibernate and rest naturally during the winter. This preserves the strength of the queen and the vitality of the hive for the following season.

4. Minimal Intervention Processing

To maintain the honey’s integrity, ethical producers use cool-processing and minimal filtration. This keeps the natural enzymes and pollen intact, exactly as the bees produced them.

5. Rigorous Independent Verification

Every batch is lab-tested to verify levels of MGO, DHA, and purity. This transparency ensures that the final product is authentic, monofloral Manuka honey that meets the highest safety and quality standards..

Overcoming Challenges Through Ethical Manuka Beekeeping

While the narrow production window for Manuka honey creates immense commercial pressure, ethical beekeeping transforms these challenges into a commitment to quality.

1. Patience Over Production

While the brief blooming period can tempt operations to rush, ethical beekeeping relies on meticulous planning to align with nature’s timeline without overworking the colonies.

2. Preventing Overharvesting

To avoid bee malnutrition, ethical beekeepers only harvest surplus honey, ensuring the hive retains enough of its own natural food stores to thrive through the winter.

3. Natural Pest Management

Rather than relying on harsh chemicals to combat threats like the Varroa mite, ethical producers use frequent monitoring and natural controls to maintain hive health and honey purity.

4. Combating Habitat Pressure

Ethical beekeepers act as stewards of the land, managing remote sites responsibly to prevent environmental degradation and ensure the Manuka bush remains a sustainable resource.

5. Eliminating Fraud Through Traceability

To protect consumers and manufacturers from industry-wide honey fraud, ethical brands utilize direct sourcing and QR-code technology, allowing customers to verify the authenticity and origin of every batch.

PRI: Healing the World With Every Jar

Ethical beekeeping is the only way to ensure that Manuka honey remains a powerful wellness tool. These practices protect the bees, the land, and the medicinal quality of the honey. 

At PRI, we’re committed to following these values to ensure that you receive Manuka honey that’s both effective and sustainable. Since 1987, we have partnered with New Zealand beekeepers who prioritize bee welfare and environmental stewardship. 

Our Manuka honey is 100% raw, cool-processed, and minimally filtered to preserve its natural potency. For total transparency, every independently certified jar features a QR code, allowing you to trace your batch and verify its MGO, DHA, and purity levels.

Explore the PRI Manuka honey collection today. Experience the goodness of honey produced with integrity and care for the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ethical Beekeeping With PRI

Why is Manuka honey so expensive?

While the price of Manuka honey may seem high, it reflects the rigorous standards required to ensure a pure, potent product. This cost is driven by the extreme scarcity of the Manuka bush, which blooms for only a few weeks in remote regions of New Zealand, and the complex logistics of harvesting in rugged terrain. 

Furthermore, unlike mass-produced alternatives, authentic Manuka requires significant investment in independent laboratory testing and ethical beekeeping practices that prioritize hive health over volume.

Is Manuka honey bee-friendly?

Yes, if it’s sourced correctly. PRI ensures that honey is only harvested from surplus stores. This leaves the bees with plenty of food for the winter. Ethical beekeepers focus on colony health and natural behaviors to keep the bees strong.

How do I know if honey is ethical?

Look for brands that offer total transparency. Authentic honey should have clear lab certifications for MGO or UMF levels. Check for QR codes that lead to independent test results. Manuka honey from New Zealand should be traceable back to the beekeeper. PRI provides this level of detail to guarantee that our honey is produced without chemicals or habitat destruction.

• Manuka honey health benefits and uses include serving as a functional, non-curative adjunct for soothing throat irritation and supporting digestive health through its unique bioactive compounds and viscous texture.

• Beyond oral consumption for energy and immunity, medical-grade Manuka is utilized professionally for minor wound management and as a humectant in dermatological care.

• For optimal results, a daily intake of 1 to 2 teaspoons is recommended, ideally consumed straight or in lukewarm liquids to preserve the integrity of the MGO levels.
  

Manuka honey has gained a significant reputation as a premier superfood. Sourced from the native Manuka bush in New Zealand, this unique honey contains high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO). This specific compound provides Manuka with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that far exceed those of standard table honey. 

In this article, we cover the seven primary science-backed health benefits of this golden nectar. You will also learn how to incorporate it into your daily routine, including advice for those monitoring their sugar intake.

7 Manuka Honey Health Benefits

While ordinary honey is a pleasant sweetener, high-MGO Manuka is a functional food now prized globally for its therapeutic potential. Here are 7 Manuka honey health benefits you should know about to understand that Manuka honey is more than just a fad:

1. Immune System Support

Manuka honey is a reliable tool for strengthening your body’s natural defenses. Its bioactive compounds help the immune system respond to external pressures more effectively. Many Pacific Resources International (PRI) products also feature a combination of Manuka honey and propolis, a resinous substance collected by bees that acts as a natural shield for the hive. Together, these two products provide a broad spectrum of support for your overall well-being.

2. Natural Energy Boost

Unlike processed sugars that lead to a sudden “crash,” Manuka honey offers a steady source of energy. It consists of a unique balance of fructose and glucose. This composition allows for a more sustained release of energy into the bloodstream, making it an excellent choice for a pre-workout snack or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up when you need to maintain mental clarity and physical stamina.

3. Cough and Sore Throat Relief

If you’re dealing with a nasty cough or a scratchy throat from the flu, Manuka honey can be a wonderful palliative measure to relieve the discomfort associated with upper respiratory issues. While it doesn’t replace pharmacological treatments, such as prescription antibiotics, including intravenous treatments like Amikacin, it serves as a practical adjunct for symptom management.

4. Aids in Digestive Care

Manuka honey acts as a natural prebiotic, which means it helps feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for efficient digestion and even influences your mood and immune health. Many people find that a small daily serving helps reduce bloating and supports a more balanced digestive tract.

5. A Mindful Alternative for Blood Sugar Management

While all honey contains natural sugars, Manuka honey has a lower glycemic index (GI) than standard table sugar. This means it is digested and absorbed more slowly, resulting in a more gradual rise in blood glucose levels rather than a sharp spike.

For those managing diabetes, Manuka can be a strategic substitute for refined sweeteners when used in moderation. Some studies suggest that the high antioxidant content in Manuka may offer protective effects for the pancreas, the organ responsible for insulin production. However, because it is still a sugar source, it should always be integrated into a balanced diet and discussed with a healthcare professional to ensure it fits your specific glycemic targets.

6. Burn and Wound Treatment

In clinical settings, an increasing amount of evidence points to the use of medical-grade Manuka honey as a natural alternative to supporting the healing of minor burns and wounds. The honey creates a moist, antibacterial environment that prevents infection and promotes faster tissue regeneration. Its low pH level and high MGO content make it difficult for harmful bacteria to survive, which is why it is frequently used in specialized bandages and ointments.

7. Soothing Skin Care

Topical application of Manuka honey can help address a variety of skin concerns. Its anti-inflammatory properties are effective at calming redness and irritation associated with acne or eczema. Additionally, it acts as a humectant, meaning it draws moisture into the skin to keep it hydrated and soft. You can apply it as a simple spot treatment or mix it into a hydrating face mask.

Practical Tips for Your Wellness Routine

To gain the most from your Manuka honey, you should focus on consistency and proper handling. Because the enzymes and compounds like MGO are sensitive to extreme environments, how you store and consume the honey determines its effectiveness. 

Here are the best ways to take Manuka honey for its health benefits:

• Daily Intake: To support general immunity, take 1 to 2 teaspoons daily. You can eat it straight from the spoon or drizzle it over yogurt and oatmeal.

• For Throat Comfort: Dissolve a teaspoon in warm (not boiling) water with lemon. Alternatively, keep Manuka honey drops or lozenges nearby for convenience.

• Diabetic-Friendly Swaps: Use a small amount in smoothies or dressings. Pairing the honey with cinnamon can also help support stable blood sugar.

• Wound and Skin Use: For minor scrapes, apply the honey directly to the area and cover with a clean bandage. For a face mask, leave a thin layer on clean skin for 15 minutes before rinsing.

• Propolis Combination: Use a propolis tincture alongside your honey for a more comprehensive approach to seasonal wellness. You may also go for a ready-made version that combines both in one package.

Sweeten Your Wellness Routine With PRI

The diverse health benefits of Manuka honey make it a valuable addition to any pantry. Whether you’re looking for digestive aid, wound care, or a natural energy source, the quality of the honey matters.

At PRI, we provide authentic New Zealand Manuka honey that you can trust. As a family-owned company and the original importer of Manuka to the U.S., we prioritize potency and purity. Every jar we sell features a QR code on the lid. This allows you to verify the independent lab results for the MGO and DHA levels in your specific batch.

With PRI Manuka honey products, you’re getting a raw, minimally processed product that retains all its natural bioactive compounds. Browse our collection of pure honey, lozenges, and propolis products today to start supporting your health naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions About Manuka Honey Health Benefits

How much Manuka honey should you eat in a day for health benefits?

For general throat support and wellness, the standard recommendation is one to two teaspoons (approximately 5 to 10 ml) per day.

Because Manuka honey is a concentrated source of sugar, it should be consumed in moderation. Individuals managing blood sugar levels or metabolic conditions should consult a healthcare provider to determine an appropriate amount that fits within their specific dietary requirements.

What is the best Manuka honey for health benefits?

For general wellness, MGO 263 to 500+ is usually sufficient, such as the PRI Manuka Honey MGO 300+. Stronger ones are ideal in intensive immune support and other supportive uses like soothing a sore throat. Go for high strength ones like the PRI Manuka Honey MGO 1000+.

What is the best time to eat Manuka honey?

The timing depends on the desired outcome. If it’s just for general wellness, it’s recommended to take it on an empty stomach, roughly 30 minutes before a meal, to allow the honey to coat the digestive tract without interference from other foods.

Can you eat Manuka honey straight from the jar?

Yes. Consuming Manuka honey directly from the spoon is often considered the most effective method for soothing the throat. If you do choose to mix it with tea or water, it’s best to wait until the liquid has cooled to a drinkable temperature to avoid degrading the honey’s unique properties with excessive heat.

Manuka Honey is a monofloral honey produced from the nectar of the Leptospermum scoparium tree. Unlike regular honey, its potency is measured by Methylglyoxal (MGO), a stable antibacterial compound. Used for wound care, digestive health, and immune support, it is considered a 'medical-grade' functional food.

1. The Basics
2. What Is MGO: Manuka Vs Regular Honey
3. Uses Of Manuka:
3a: Burn & Wound Treatment
3b: Acne & Other Skin Concerns
3c: Oral Health
3d: Sore Throat
3e: Digestive Health
3f: Influenza Vs Manuka
3g: Allergy Symptoms Vs Honey
3h: Manuka For Pets
4. Monofloral Vs Multifloral Manuka Honey
5. Australian Vs New Zealand Manuka Honey
6. What To Look For When Purchasing To Ensure You Are Getting Real Manuka Honey
7.Different Manuka Labels And What They Mean (MGO, UMF, K-Factor)
8. How To Read The Test Results (+ The Other Key Compounds In Manuka)
9. How To Choose The Right Strength For Your Needs And Recommended Dosage
10. Other Ways To Incorporate Manuka + Our Top 10 Food & Beauty Recipes To Get Your Creative Juices Flowing!

Want us to cover a topic you don’t see here? Reach out on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram or go old school and give us a ring, Monday through Friday at (805) 684-0624

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What makes Manuka Honey different from regular honey?

​​Manuka Honey is made in New Zealand & Australia by bees who pollinate the Manuka tree and contains MGO, short for methylglyoxal,  a compound not found in other types of honey. This compound gives Manuka honey unique health benefits.

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MGO vs. Regular Honey: Why Manuka is Unique?

There are many different types of honey, each with its own unique characteristics but the most common question we get is: how is Manuka honey different from regular honey? 
To answer that, we first need to determine what “regular” honey is! Let’s say it can fall into two categories:

1- Multifloral, processed & pasteurized honey, often mixed with other sweeteners

2- Raw honey, from multi or monofloral sources excluding Manuka
Assuming we can agree that any raw honey is far superior to the first category,  let’s dive into the differences between manuka honey and other raw honey types. 

The biggest difference, of course, is the MGO! Yup, you’ll hear that abbreviation a whole lot around here & find it prominently displayed on the front of our jars. That’s because MGO stands for methylglyoxal and it is what gives manuka its magic. Not found in any other honey, MGO has a range of anti-inflammatory and antibacterial benefits. 

Now you might say that regular raw honey also has these benefits and, technically, you would be correct. However, with these honey types, the benefits come from peroxide activity. This activity doesn’t do much for the human body. Since too much peroxide is bad for us, we have an enzyme called Catalyse which quickly breaks peroxide down into water and oxygen making its effects very short-lived.

Your body's defenses do not attack MGO, so you can take full advantage of its benefits inside and out! 

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Therapeutic Uses and Health Benefits of Manuka Honey

The therapeutic power of Manuka honey stems from its unique 'Non-Peroxide Activity,' driven primarily by high concentrations of Methylglyoxal (MGO). This stable, bio-active compound allows Manuka to maintain its antibacterial potency where regular honey falters, making it a versatile tool for everything from soothing internal digestive pathways to supporting external skin repair.

There are so many benefits to manuka honey both when used externally and internally and we’ve listed some of our favorites below.  As always, we’ve included study links, but also encourage you to do your own research! There are far more amazing uses and studies related to manuka honey than we could ever cover here.

3a:  Burn & Wound Treatment - Historically, honey has been recognized around the world for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help promote healing, tissue regeneration, and reduce pain.  It has even been found effective against many antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria. Combined with its humectant effect, this makes manuka honey uniquely superior to many traditional treatments. Read more here.

3b: Acne and other skin concerns - More & more studies are finding what traditional medicine knew all along: That honey is efficacious in treating a range of skin disorders from acne to eczema & psoriasis. You can add manuka honey to your daily skincare routine to improve your skin’s appearance by fighting bad bacteria and inflammation, and keeping your skin healthy, moisturized, and nourished. 

3c: Oral Health : Manuka Honey will help reduce plaque by preventing the development of biofilms, which make plaque harder to remove. It also restricts bacteria formation preventing tooth cavities and other gum problems like periodontal disease, gingivitis, bleeding, receding gums, dry mouth, and bad breath.

3d: Natural Relief for Sore Throats, Coughs, and Colds: Recent studies have shown that manuka is more effective than OTC products against sore throat & cough due to its unique anti-bacterial, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been shown to inhibit the development of strep throat and even stimulate immune cells! 

 3e: Digestive Health: Manuka has been found to act as a prebiotic by stimulating the growth of good bacteria, while at the same time its antibacterial effects actively fight against disease-causing bacteria. It has shown promise in treating a range of digestive issues from IBS and ulcerative colitis to C. diff. 

3f: Influenza vs Manuka: A recent study showed that manuka honey may be just as, if not more effective, against the flu than the popular OTC drugs. Tested against a common flu strain and also against other types of honey, manuka showed the highest potency and ability to actually inhibit the growth of the virus. Additionally, it has been found more effective than traditional treatments such as antibiotics in treating symptoms of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs)

3g: Allergy Symptoms: Despite what you may have heard, studies show that honey cannot cure your allergies. Even local honey and yes, even our honey! That said, the unique antibacterial & anti-inflammatory properties of manuka honey are shown effective against a range of allergy symptoms and related diseases making it a great natural allergy relief alternative to OTC options. Read more here.

3h: Manuka for Pets: Many pets can appreciate the same benefits from Manuka honey that we do. It's used widely to treat burns, wounds, hot spots & other skin issues on all sorts of animals, especially dogs, cats and horses. Dogs can also take advantage of its benefits internally for oral health, as a prebiotic, for added immune protection & much more. Read more about its uses, as well as how much to give your pet based on their size, here.

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Mono vs Multi-Floral Manuka Honey

While most monofloral honey (i.e. clover, orange blossom, etc.) is pollen tested to prove its’ source, Manuka honey regulations are even more involved.  

In order for Manuka honey to be certified as Monofloral, the nectar must be predominantly Manuka and when tested the honey must contain a higher level of two of the four naturally occurring markers. Monofloral Manukas tend to come in higher strengths as the concentration of Manuka is higher.

Multifloral Manuka is created when honeybees forage from the Manuka flower and other floral sources. To be classified as Multiflora Manuka, the honey must contain mainly Mānuka nectar and meet four naturally occurring markers.  Here is an example markers test.
 
What does this mean for you? If you wish to obtain the optimal benefits that Manuka offers, Monofloral is your ticket. However, if you’re looking for smooth, tasty honey that still has more naturally occurring benefits and is cost competitive vs other raw honey, Multifloral is for you!

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Australian vs New Zealand Manuka Honey

Manuka was discovered in New Zealand and thought to occur only there until much more recently. We now know Australia is host to over 80 species of Leptospermum, including the exact same plant - Leptospermum Scoparium - as is found in NZ. 

Due to the larger variety of manuka species, Australian manuka honey has a different flavor and color profile & is less likely to crystalize. There is also less government oversight, a larger territory, and a longer Manuka flowering season, all factors which contribute to its lower price point. 

The key factor is that both our Australian & New Zealand manuka lines are independently tested for and contain the active ingredient, MGO (methylglyoxal), giving Manuka its unique potency. You can see test results for both lines via the QR code on the jar lids. 

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What to look for when purchasing to ensure you are getting real Manuka honey.

By now you know that no matter what the label says (UMF, K-Factor, NPA) what you need to look for is the MGO concentration. If you cannot find the MGO amount…well, buyer beware!
 
On our New Zealand Manuka Honey Labels, we are required by the NZ MPI  to include the following statement:  “The 100% raw Manuka Honey in this jar was independently tested to ensure it has an MGO content of over 200+ mg/kg. This honey is compliant with Manuka Honey standards set by the NZ Ministry for Primary Industries. Product of New Zealand.”
 
While this is not currently required for manuka honey exported from Australia, we still put it through the same independent testing that our New Zealand line must go through, and, just like with our NZ line, you can access those test results via the QR code on the jar’s lid. Being able to access test results is important to ensure you are purchasing genuine manuka honey.
 
It is also prudent to look for where the honey was jarred. For instance, our jars read: “Sourced, packed and independently tested in New Zealand exclusively for and distributed by: PRI…” 
 
Some brands export manuka from NZ in bulk containers and then mix it with other honey before jarring since there are no regulations for manuka in other countries, while others jar in NZ but hide their MGO content in order to sell you low-strength manuka at a higher price. This is why it’s important to look for both the MGO content and where the honey is jarred. 
 
As the original importers of manuka to the U.S., we brought in manuka before they even knew what MGO was!! Having been there are all stages of knowledge about this amazing natural product, we have always strived to provide the most transparency possible. If you’d like to learn more about this & why our new labels are so important, click here.

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Different Manuka labeling and what they mean (MGO, UMF, K-Factor)

With so many different manuka labels, it can be hard to figure out which manuka honey to purchase & which brand you can trust. What do all of those abbreviations even mean? 

Let’s start by looking at what the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries says: 

“Honey labeled as mānuka for export must be tested by an MPI-recognised laboratory to make sure it meets the new mānuka honey definition.”

The mānuka honey definition is made up of a combination of 5 attributes (4 chemicals from nectar and 1 DNA marker from mānuka pollen).”

Now that we know what is required for manuka honey to leave the shores of NZ, let’s look at some different terms you see on various manuka honey labels and what they really mean:

#1 - MGO. Short for methylglyoxal, MGO is the key medicinal component in manuka honey. Per MPI requirements all genuine manuka labeling should be based on this marker and indicated on the label. We put our MGO number right up front, so you don’t have to search for it. 

#2 - UMF. Short for “Unique Manuka Factor”. UMF is a grading system, based on the NPA level of the honey & developed by a privately funded club: The UMF Honey Association. They will grant a license to a company's product if it is tested and found to meet the specific UMF standards & give permission to use their logo on the label. This logo does add more cost to the end product and according to the new rules laid out by MPI, UMF can only be used as a purity grade, not an activity grade so you still need to look for the MGO number on the jar. 

#3 - K-Factor. This labeling does not indicate the medicinal quality and/or activity of manuka honey. The company that uses this labeling states that their definition of k-Factor is built around 5 key factors: “Traceability from hive to home, raw & unpasteurized, non-GMO verified, produced & packed in NZ, and free of antibiotics, glyphosate, and pesticides.” None of these tell you anything about the activity (MGO) content and antibacterial ability of the product, nor will you find the MGO level anywhere on their jars. 

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Beyond MGO -  the other key compounds in manuka. Plus, how to read your test results:

MGO may be the hero with the most star power, but it couldn’t even exist without these other key compounds, along with four markers the NZ MPI looks for and are required for the export license: 

• DHA (Dihydroxyacetone) - This gives Manuka Honey its antibacterial properties, the higher the concentration, the stronger the antibiotic effect. MG is derived from the compound DHA.

• NPA: short for “non-peroxide activity”, this is the original term to describe Manuka’s unique activity and is the same as UMF.

• HMF: This is a marker used to ensure the honey is properly stored and has not been heated in any way. 

But don’t worry - when you are reading your test results you don’t have to keep track of all of them! You really just need to look at the MGO and DHA numbers. For full instructions and an example test result, click here or learn via video.

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How to choose the right strength for your needs. 

Let us help you save some money honey…or, honey money? Not sure, but either way, we’re all tightening our spending right now and the reality is…you don’t need the highest strength to get the benefits.

In fact, your body can only use so much at a time anyway! Here is a chart to help you choose the right one for your needs & lifestyle:
 
What is a good strength for Manuka Honey?  See the uses and Manuka Honey ratings table below.

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Other ways to incorporate manuka + our top 10 recipes to get your creative juices flowing  😋

Drink it, dip it, blend it, bake it, take it - incorporating manuka into your daily routine couldn’t be easier!   

Whether you simply add a tablespoon a day as part of your wellness routine, incorporate it into your favorite foods, make your own skincare recipes or add it to your beverages the possibilities really are endless. Here are our top 5 edible recipes and our top 5 body care recipes to get your creative juices flowing:
 
#1 - Strawberry Honey Lime Mimosas: why not add benefits to your bubbles?
 
#2 - Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar Using Scraps: upgrade your ACV shots with the power of MGO!
 
#3 - Sweet Potato Mocha Ice Cream: we cracked the code and made a nutritious ice cream that doesn’t make us miss our Ben & Jerry’s. 
 
#4 - Lemon Twist Dessert Hummus: already a delicious & nutritious dessert, we made it even better with our Lemon Twist Manuka Honey. 
 
#5 - Honey Boba Tea: tastes just like the boba you love only this one is dairy & refined sugar-free. 
 
BODY CARE
 
#1- Manuka Honey & Propolis Salve by GrowForageCookFerment: toss your Neosporin, this simple salve has all the same pros, with none of the cons. 
 
#2 - Manuka & ACV Cuticle Treatment: protecting your cuticles is key to having healthy nails. This treatment also protects against fungus and has only 4 ingredients!
 
#3 - Manuka Exfoliator: the single ingredient method to gently exfoliate. Technically not a recipe but absolutely necessary information!
 
#4 - Moisturizing Bath Soak: This one is so easy, we’ll just drop it here. Dissolve two tablespoons of manuka into a cup of warm water, add to the bath, and enjoy.
 
#5 - Manuka Honey Facial Spray: spray the dry skin away with green tea & nature’s best humectant - Manuka honey!
 
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Verified by David Noll, Founder of PRI and the original pioneer who introduced Manuka Honey to the U.S. in 1987. With 40 years of experience in New Zealand honey sourcing, David ensures every fact in this guide meets our purity and transparency standards
 

At P.R.I., we're all about savoring the sweet moments in life while nourishing our bodies. That's why we're excited to bring you a delectable wholesome treat: Healthy “Snickers” Frozen Yogurt Bars! These bars are not only scrumptious but also packed with ingredients that provide whole-body benefits. Bonus: they taste just like a Snickers ice cream bar!

Let’s dive into the beneficial ingredients and what they do:

1. Unsweetened Coconut Yogurt: Starting with a creamy base, coconut yogurt adds a rich texture while being dairy-free. It's also a source of healthy fats and probiotics that support gut health. Feel free to swap with regular, organic yogurt if you can eat dairy!

2. Peanut Butter: Peanut butter introduces a delightful nutty flavor, along with protein and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats to help keep you satisfied for longer.

3. Vanilla Protein Powder: Boost your protein intake with a scoop of vanilla protein powder. Protein aids muscle repair and keeps you full, making it an ideal post-workout snack. 

4. PRI Manuka Honey 500+ MGO: Our star ingredient, Manuka Honey 500+, infuses natural sweetness and its remarkable antibacterial properties. It's a delicious way to support your immune system and overall wellness.

5. Chopped Nuts: A blend of peanuts, cashews, and almonds provides a satisfying crunch and a dose of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Serves: 2 big ice cream bars or 4 small ice cream bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsweetened coconut yogurt
• ⅓ cup runny peanut butter
• 3 tbsp vanilla protein powder (optional)
• 1 tbsp PRI Manuka Honey 500+
• 3 tbsp mini chocolate chips
• 2-3 tbsp chopped nuts (we used a blend of peanuts, cashew, and almonds)
• 1 cup chocolate chips
• 2 tbsp coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Mix unsweetened coconut yogurt, runny peanut butter, vanilla protein powder, and PRI Manuka Honey 500+ in a bowl. This blend delivers a protein-packed, probiotic-rich batter that's a feast for your taste buds.

2. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips for a burst of sweetness and crunch.

3. Spoon the mixture onto parchment paper in a circular shape, creating the base of your bars. Insert a popsicle stick and layer on more batter until it covers the stick.

4. Top your bars with a generous sprinkle of chopped nuts. Nuts not only add a delightful texture but also provide essential nutrients for overall well-being.

5. Freeze your bars for 1-2 hours until they become firm.

6. After your bars have firmed up, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil until smooth. Use this heavenly mixture to coat your bars. A chocolaty shell adds an exquisite touch to your creation.

7. Freeze your bars for an additional 10 minutes to set the chocolate.

8. Finally, remove them from the freezer, and voilà! You're ready to enjoy!

These bars are not only delicious but also a easy & fun!. They make for the perfect treat that brings joy to everyone. Tag us on social media when you make these bars. We'd love to see your creations!

Featuring your Favorite PRI Manuka Chocolate Patties

Unsolicited opinion incoming: Edible cookie dough will never ever go out of style. Did you know that recipes for “eatable cake mixes” have been found dating back to the 1800s? Basically, they were the OG edible cookie dough. What do you think? Will edible cake dough be the next big thing? 

In any case, we made these cookie dough bites with our best-selling Raspberry Manuka Chocolate Patties in place of chocolate chips. If you aren’t a fan of raspberry, don’t worry, they come in five other amazing flavors: orange, salted caramel, coffee, ginger, and mint. We’ve also added vanilla protein powder for extra nutrition.

That said, we would never present you with a recipe that swaps flavor and texture for health.  As we always say, we believe in having, eating, enjoying, AND getting benefits from your dessert.

Healthy Cookie Dough Bites

Ingredients:

• 2 cups oat flour
• ¼ vanilla protein powder
• ½ cup almond butter
• ⅓ cup PRI Manuka Honey 200+
• 3 tbsp milk of choice. Add more if needed
• ½ tbsp vanilla
• 4-5 PRI Manuka Chocolate Patties, we used raspberry

Instructions:

Whisk almond butter, manuka honey, vanilla, and milk in a large bowl until combined. Then sift in oat flour and vanilla protein powder. Stir until a thick dough forms. If it’s too dry add 1 tbsp of milk at a time until you get a consistency in which you can roll the dough into a ball. Next, chop up manuka chocolate patties and gently stir them into the dough until combined. Scoop the doubt and roll into balls. Freeze for at least 30 minutes, and then enjoy!

Sweets for your sweet: 5 easy treats anyone can make for their honey.

With Valentine's Day around the corner, it's time to start thinking about something special you can do for your honey or yourself! 

Whether they enjoy something sweet, tart, chocolatey, crunchy, or boozy, we have you covered with our Valentine’s Day recipe round-up.

Here are five of our most popular easy treats anyone can whip up:

#1 - Chocolate Fudge Truffles: starting with our dairy-free sweetened condensed milk base, this no-bake recipe might have you drooling over the pan. 

#2 - Peach Pistachio Cardamom Honey Tart: if you want a treat that looks and sounds fancy but is secretly simple, this recipe is for you! 

#3 - Honey Buns: The name alone makes this the perfect Valentine's Day treat. Plus, what's better than the aroma of freshly baked buns, especially when you can make them in your air fryer? 

#4 - Chocolate Caramel Popcorn: Perfect for an intimate movie date and just fancy looking enough to show you put in some effort! This recipe uses our chocolate patties which come in six flavors so that you can pick their favorite. 

#5 - Strawberry Honey Lime Mimosas: If a special cocktail is more your jam, these mimosas taste amazing and are pretty too!

It’s back to school and the season of snack swapping, make sure you give them something good. Bonus points if they don’t want to swap it 🤪 Maybe that’s wishful thinking? Creating snacks that are quick, inexpensive, nutritious and something all the kids want to eat can feel like a mythical quest. 

The great thing about manuka honey is that it’s packed with brain and body boosting benefits but it’s also sweet and tastes great with most everything (re: kid approved). For as little as $1/day you can incorporate manuka into your kid’s snack routine and it can help:

• Promote better sleep
• Support their immune system by fighting disease causing bacteria and promoting good gut bacteria
• Support brain function

Here are five easy snacks we think you and your kiddos will love:

1. Easy Air Fryer PB&H, three ways!
2. Honey PB Apple “Cookies”
3. Gluten & Yeast Free Soft Pretzels with Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce
4. Air Fryer Shiitake Mushroom Jerky
5. Peanut Butter Manuka Honey Cereal Bars 

Check out our reel for other fun ideas that don’t need a recipe! Or, if you want something super duper quick and portable, check out our manuka honey sticks!

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of bread
• peanut butter 
• 1 tbsp PRI Manuka Honey 60+
• sandwich cutter
• Optional fillings: banana slices, raspberries, jam
• Butter

Instructions:

Ingredients:

• 2 large red delicious apples
• ½ cup peanut butter
• ½ cup chocolate chips
• ¼ cup walnuts
• ¼ cup slivered almonds
• ¼ cup shredded coconut 
• 2 tbsp PRI Manuka Honey (or more if you like it sweeter)

Instructions:

• 4.5 cups oat flour
• ¼ cup tapioca starch or arrowroot starch
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp PRI Fine Sea Salt
• 2 tbsp PRI Manuka Blend
• ½ cup unsweetened coconut yogurt
• 1 ½ cups water (warm to the touch)
• ¼ cup baking soda (for the bath)
• 5 cups water

Toppings:

• Egg wash (1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp water)
• PRI Flaky Sea Salt

Instructions:

• Preheat the oven to 425ºF, and line your baking sheet with a silpat mat or parchment paper.
• In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: oat flour, tapioca or arrowroot, baking powder, cornstarch and sea salt.
• Next, pour the dry mixture into a stand mixer with the dough hook attachment.
• Pour in the warm water and turn it on low speed.
• Slowly add in the manuka honey, let it mix for a few seconds and then very slowly add in the coconut yogurt, increase the speed to medium.
• The dough should start to come together and resemble a yeasty dough. If it’s too wet add 1 tbsp of oat flour at a time, if it’s too dry add in 1 tbsp of water at a time.
• Once the dough is formed into a ball. Let the dough sit for 5 minutes. While doing this, bring 5 cups of water and ¼ cup of baking soda to a boil.
• Slice the dough into 8 sections, roll each section in a long rope and then form a horseshoe shape, cross the ends over the other and make a loop, then twist the ends again and loop up to create a pretzel shape. Complete until you have all your pretzels shaped.
• Next, once the baking soda bath has started to boil, drop in 1-2 pretzels at a time with a spatula with holes. Cook each pretzel until it starts to look brown 1-2 minutes, you can flip if you’d like for an even bake and coating.
• Continue until all the pretzels have soaked in the baking soda bath and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
• Create an egg wash but combine 1 egg yolk with 1 tbsp water, and brush it on. Top with PRI Flaky Sea Salt. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
• Once golden brown, remove from the oven and let cool before serving with honey mustard dipping sauce. Feel free to add more salt if preferred at this point. Store in an air-tight container or ziplock bag.

Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup dijon mustard (with or without seeds)
• 3 tbsp  PRI Manuka Honey
• ¼ cup mayo (dairy free works great too!)
• 1 tbsp yellow mustard
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• ¼ tsp chili powder (optional)

Instructions:

• Mix the dijon mustard with the honey and vegan mayo. Stir until well combined.
• Next, add in yellow mustard, the lemon juice and optional chili powder.
• If your dijon mustard has seeds, throw it in a high speed mixer and blend until more smooth.
• Pour into a sauce dish and dip your pretzels in! Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 2 - 8 oz. packages of shiitake mushroom
• ½ tbsp toasted sesame oil 
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos
• 1.5 tbsp rice vinegar
• ½ tbsp PRI Manuka Honey 60+
• ½ tsp liquid smoke
• ½ tsp soy sauce 
• ¼ tsp minced ginger
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder 
• ¼ tsp Salt
• ⅛ tsp black pepper

Instructions:

• Rinse the mushrooms and pat them dry with a paper towel. 
• Next, create your marinade by adding all the ingredients into a small bowl and stirring until well combined. 
• Place your mushrooms into a glass container with a lid and pour in your marinade. Place the top on and refrigerate overnight (preferred) or for at least a minimum of 2 hours. Shake the container regularly so the marinade is distributed throughout. 
• Next, remove your mushrooms from the fridge, they should have absorbed most of the liquid, but strain whatever excess marinade there is.  
• Place the mushrooms on a paper towel and pat dry again. 
• Next, place your mushrooms flat in the air fryer and airfry at 180F for 60 minutes. Spray with cooking spray.  After 30 minutes, flip the mushrooms over so they can cook evenly. At 60 minutes, check if they are your desired texture, if not, keep in the airfryer until desired consistency. Remove from airfryer and place on a paper towel one last time to absorb the excess oil. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

• 6 Cups Of O-Shaped Cereal
• 1 Cup Unsalted Peanut Butter
• ¾ Cup PRI Manuka Honey
• 2 Tbsp  Coconut Oil
• 1 Tsp Vanilla
• ½ Tsp PRI Fine Sea Salt 

Instructions:

• Line an 8x8 square baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.
• In a large saucepan, combine peanut butter with manuka honey and coconut oil and stir on low heat until well incorporated throughout (2-3 minutes). 
• Turn the heat off and stir in vanilla and sea salt. Then add in 3 cups of cheerios and stir until they are covered in the peanut honey mixture. Pour in the remaining 3 cups and gently stir until well incorporated. It should be similar to rice crispy treats and stick together.
• Pour the cheerio mixture into the parchment lined pan and refrigerate overnight or for a few hours until firm.
• Slice into bars and enjoy! Store in an airtight container in the fridge to enjoy for a week or freeze to enjoy later.

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Summer is a season we all look forward to, with its promise of exciting outdoor adventures and barbeques with friends and family.. While the usual grilling items take center stage, we believe that no BBQ is complete without a delectable cheese plate. Today, we want to share with you our favorite go-to recipe that effortlessly elevates any cheese plate and adds a touch of sophistication to your summer spread. As an added bonus, you can pull out that kitchen torch you got for Christmas 10 years ago! 

Introducing our Hot Manuka Honey Feta Brûlée recipe—a delectable combination of sweet, salty, and umami flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This extraordinary dish pairs perfectly with baked crostinis, crackers, and pita chips, but it also is a delightful accompaniment to chicken or lamb. 

If you find yourself enamored with the Hot Manuka Honey, don't hesitate to make extra! Try drizzling it over pizza or wings for a delicious, unique twist! We even like to add it our chai tea for a little extra warmth!

1. The Basics
2. The Compounds that Make it Special
3. What is a Certified CL level
4. Propolis Tincture Vs. Propolis Extract
5. Uses of Propolis:
    5a - Burn & Wound Treatment
    5b - Acne & Other Skin Concerns
    5c - Oral Health
    5d - Cold & Flu Symptoms
    5e - Diabetes Management
    5f - Brain Health
    5g - Gut Health
    5h - Upper Respiratory Infections
    5i - Natural Antibiotic
    5j - Candida
    5k - Nail Infections
6. How to Use Propolis & Our Top 5 Propolis DIYs
7. Disclaimers & Known Interactions

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Propolis is a bee-made resin using plant resins, a bit of honey, and a little bee saliva. They use it to fill in small cracks in the beehive. It also helps maintain the hive temperature, prevents predators from entering, and protects against dangerous microbes and fungi.

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Over 500 compounds have been found in propolis so far!! Many of them have anti-inflammatory benefits, but which compound is the superstar?  Flavonoids. 

Flavonoids are a type of antioxidant that has beneficial anti-inflammatory effects, and they protect your cells from oxidative damage that can lead to disease. Propolis is a super concentrated form of antioxidants. 

So, beyond the concentration, what makes the antioxidants in propolis different from, say, the ones found in blueberries? The bees do, of course! 

The mixture of plant resins, honey, and bee saliva adds antibacterial and antiseptic properties that simply cannot be matched!

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3. What is Certified CPL Level?

The certified CPL level ensures that you get a high, consistent level of flavonoids per gram of the finished product. Because propolis must first be broken down with alcohol and then with water, and all propolis has naturally varying levels of flavonoids, we must blend and test them to achieve consistent levels. This means you always know you are getting therapeutic levels of flavonoids in every bottle of  P.R.I. propolis.

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4. Propolis Extract Vs. Propolis Tincture

Propolis extract is water-based, while the tincture is alcohol based. You might have read that extracts are more potent than tinctures; however, with our certified CL levels, you will get the same potency no matter which base you choose. 

In its base form, Propolis can only be broken down with alcohol. The extract is then put into large vats and continuously beaten with water until the alcohol dissipates.  

We recommend the tincture for external uses like cuts, bites, acne, and wounds, but the extract is much more versatile and an excellent choice for small children and those who cannot consume alcohol. 

Additionally, if your recipe is oil-based, such as face oil, use the tincture, as the extract will not blend with the oil. 

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5. Uses of Propolis

Ancient cultures used propolis to treat wounds and abscesses on the skin and mouth. It was even used in the first and second World Wars to prevent infections and speed healing. Since then, we’ve found many more wonderful uses of propolis. Here we will attempt to cover them all:

As mentioned above, propolis has been used on wounds for quite some time, but our knowledge of how it works and its applications have expanded. Researchers tested propolis against several dangerous microbes and have found it very effective against aggressive bacteria.

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5b - Acne & Other Skin Concerns 

Propolis’ complex anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antioxidant properties make for an excellent natural acne treatment and preventative. Propolis is now in many skincare products & has proven to help lock in moisture and regenerate the skin. One study showed that propolis could reverse UV damage to the skin. Additionally, a combination of Olive Oil, Beeswax, Propolis, and Honey has been found very effective against diaper rash. 

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5c - Oral Health 

Over the last several years, the link between overall health and our oral health has become impossible to ignore. This knowledge and growing concern about fluoride exposure and toxicity has increased the popularity of natural oral care options. Did you know that children ingesting fluoride toothpaste are the #1 reason for poison control calls? (1) (2) Unbiased studies show fluoride doesn’t prevent any harmful bacteria, now is the time to switch to a natural oral care routine. Propolis has shown to be a fantastic natural addition to oral care that will actively fight harmful bacteria. Recent studies show it can also help protect against oral disease, reduce plaque and treat canker sores. 

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5d - Cold & Flu Symptoms 

The antiviral and antibacterial properties of propolis have made it a common natural treatment for cold & flu symptoms worldwide. It has even recently been studied against COVID. While further studies must be done, initial studies show that propolis may be part of a very effective treatment. 

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Propolis was first acknowledged in 1988 to act in an anti-hyperglycemic capacity, thus stabilizing blood sugar glucose. Since then, many more studies have shown that propolis may inhibit enzymes that increase blood sugar. 

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5f - Brain Health

Propolis is showing great promise in treating many brain conditions ranging from detoxification, oxidative stress,  neuroinflammation, brain injury, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy models, depression, cytotoxicity, cognitive improvement, and brain infections. These benefits are thought to be caused by propolis’ unique and highly potent anti-inflammatory properties.

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5g - Gut Health

Studies on propolis and gut health abound, showing great promise in the treatment of many conditions as well as general maintenance. A rich source of probiotics, propolis acts in our gut, much the same way as it does in the hive, creating an intestinal barrier and preventing toxins and bacterial dislocation from the gut to the blood. Propolis also has shown great success in treating GI diseases such as oral mucositis, oral microbiota, ulcerative colitis, and gastric ulcers.

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5h - Upper Respiratory Tract Infections (URTIs)

Many studies have been done on children and adults, showing that propolis is highly effective against URTIs. URTIs are ubiquitous, especially in children; some have become antibiotic-resistant. Current drugs for treatment are high in cost and have serious side effects in children. Propolis is shown to work on antibiotic-resistant infections. 

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5i - Natural Antibiotics

While we’ve touched on this above, it is essential to note this use, especially since more bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics. Probiotics are crucial while on antibiotics. Propolis is a powerful probiotic and natural antibiotic in one! Not only shown to protect against the spread of harmful bacteria, but propolis can also prevent it from taking hold to begin with. Studies indicate that this is because propolis can break down and prevent the spread of biofilms, which harmful bacteria use to take hold and spread. 

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5j - Candida

While this could fall under gut health and skin health, we thought it necessary to highlight, given that candida is found in most of the population. There are different types of candida, such as Candida albicans, which typically manifests in the genitals and mouth, and Candida tropicalis, which occupies the intestinal tract. Studies show that propolis is effective against many candida types.

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5k - Nail Infections

The most popularly prescribed treatment for fungal nail infections is resistant to seven common nail funguses AND not nearly as effective as propolis on the non-resistant fungi.

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Propolis is best taken in the morning. While there are no official dosage recommendations, ½ - 1 dropper daily is ideal. Place the propolis under your tongue and allow it to dissolve. Those who dislike the flavor recommend placing the propolis in a glass of juice. Drink slowly.

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6a - Antibacterial Alcohol-Free Mouthwash

Ingredients:

• 1 Cup of Distilled Water
• 2 Drops of Manuka Oil
• 4 Drops of Propolis Tincture
• 1 Tsp of Microplastic-Free Sea Salt
• ½ - 1 Tsp of Manuka Honey

Put all ingredients in a bottle and shake before use. Avoid swallowing. If swallowing is a concern, such as with young children, simply remove the manuka oil from the recipe.

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6b - Propolis & Manuka Oral Spray

Ingredients:

• 1 Two-Ounce Spray Bottle
• 4 Tsp of Manuka Honey
• 2 Tsp of Propolis Extract
• 2-3 Drops of Peppermint Essential Oil (Optional)
• Distilled water

Combine all ingredients in the spray bottle and shake. Spray as needed for sore throat, fresh breath, or after meals when you can’t brush.

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6c - Propolis & Manuka Diaper Rash Treatment

Ingredients: 

• 2 Tbsp Manuka Honey
• 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Dropper of Propolis Extract

Mix all ingredients. Clean and thoroughly dry the affected area. Apply ointment to the affected area and allow it to dry slightly before diapering. Honey & propolis are safe to use externally on children of all ages, provided they do not have an allergic reaction to bee products.

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6d - Steroid Free Nasal Spray

Ingredients:

• 2 Cups of Distilled Water
• ½ Tsp of Microplastic-Free Sea Salt
• 2-3 Drops of Propolis Extract
• ½ Tsp Manuka Honey

Shake or blend all ingredients. Use it in your Neti Pot or a similar device. 

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6e - Three Ingredient Facial Oil

Ingredients:

• 2-Ounce Dropper Bottle
• 5 Drops Propolis Tincture
• Bottle of 10% Manuka Oil in Sweet Almond Oil
• 2-4 Drops of Essential Oils of Choice (Optional)

Add essential oils and propolis to the dropper bottle. Fill the rest of the way with the Manuka in Sweet Almond Oil. Shake well before each use. 

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7. Disclaimers and Known Drug Interactions 

As always, we strive to provide you with the best information backed by scientific studies. However, we are not doctors and cannot recommend any treatment for specific concerns. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you might have. 

That said, here is what we think you need to know:

Propolis has no known severe, serious, moderate, or mild interactions with other drugs. Take caution when combining propolis with medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs). Propolis is thought to slow blood clotting, though more studies need to be conducted on the topic.

Allergic reactions (skin or respiratory symptoms) may occur, particularly in people who are allergic to bees or bee products.

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