When you hear the word Manuka, chances are that you think of Manuka honey. But, did you know that there is also Manuka oil and that many believe it to be even more advantageous for our health? Both of these products are natural ways to bring a potent antibacterial treatment to your health and beauty regime, and both come from the same original source. However, there are lots of differences, too. So, how does Manuka honey differ from pure Manuka oil, and is the oil a better choice?
The Difference Between Manuka Honey and Manuka Oil
Manuka honey is definitely the most well-known product. It is very popular as a superfood because of the quality of the honey and nutrients provided. The name comes from the Manuka tree, and the honey is derived from the pollen collected by bees that visit the tree.
Manuka oil is not the same thing. Also, contrary to what some guides might say, Manuka oil is not derived from Manuka honey. It is not Manuka honey in a more pure or concentrated form. Pure Manuka oil is a botanical extract that comes directly from the tree’s twigs and leaves. The bees have nothing to do with it.
The difference in origin results in one very important benefit for some customers. The oil is completely vegan in origin. This is perfect for those who follow a strictly vegan lifestyle or want to make more ethical choices in health and beauty regimes. Manuka honey is not vegan because it relies on animals and is a by-product. We may not be harming bees and taking a product from their bodies as we would milk from dairy animals. However, many vegans still see the process as exploitative. There is also the fact that raw honey straight from the hive could contain fragments of insects and larvae.
The Benefits of Manuka Oil for Health Care
When it comes to the practical applications of this oil, there are lots of potential uses. People who enjoy using this oil tend to do so as a topical solution. It is incredibly powerful in its concentrated form. This makes it highly beneficial when dealing with a range of health and skincare issues.
One of the most interesting advantages of Manuka oil is that it is really helpful when it comes to wound care. This is also true of Manuka honey, but it’s a lot less messy this way. Some people put honey on ulcers and wounds to promote the health process, but it is so sticky that it isn’t the most pleasant option available. The high levels of anti-bacterial and anti-microbial compounds are perfect for aiding cuts, bites, and other injuries to the skin. There are even claims that with the right concentration and safe application, the powerful oil could kill highly resistant forms of skin bacteria, such as staph.
Beyond this immediate wound care, there are great effects on the skin. The soothing oil can help heal the scars that may form after deep wounds and acne. This makes it a great long-term solution that can keep the skin youthful and rejuvenated without much work. Some people also use it for fungal infections, like athletes’ foot, and to ease dandruff. A little bit on the scalp or added to a shampoo could do wonders.
A final benefit to consider with this oil is the potential for aromatherapy. The scent is pleasing, with some interesting notes. There is a very earthy feel from the wood of the tree, but also a sweetness you don’t get with something like cedarwood or balsam. A little in a burner, added to a massage oil, or added to a bath could be rejuvenating and relaxing after a long day. Some suggest pairing it with lavender for an even better impact.
The Downsides of Using Manuka Oil
Clearly, manuka oil has a lot of potential for helping people deal with a range of conditions. It is easy to see this as the more practical and beneficial solution when looking for Manuka healthcare options. However, it is also important to remember that there are some limitations and risks involved here. Keep the following points in mind when choosing between these products.
The first downside of using pure Manuka oil over Manuka honey is that it isn’t edible. Manuka honey is great as a sweet treat, such as spreading it on toast or as a sweetener for teas. Many users will stir it into their tea with a dash of lemon. This is an effective way to fight off viruses like the common cold. Others swear by a spoonful a day to maintain their gut and oral health.
The other, and perhaps most important downside here is the application process. It is a lot less messy than the honey, but the potency means that you do need to dilute it first, especially when using it on sensitive areas. Anyone looking to use this for direct wound care, on sensitive skin, or other delicate areas such as the face, should be careful how they apply it.
One option is to use a barrier oil or cream to carry the Manuka for great absorption and safety. For example, you could try adding the oil to a moisturizer or a cleanser during your skincare routine. You can also dilute it with water. Don’t forget that Manuka oil is 30 times more powerful than tea tree essential oil. When it gets to work, you can see some significant results, but you don’t want to risk further irritation, burning, or infection through misuse.
Manuka Honey vs. Manuka Oil: Which is Best?
There are pros and cons to both options, depending on what you are going for. If you are looking for a way to add a potent antibacterial solution to your natural skin and wound care regime, Pure Manuka oil is hard to beat. Still, the taste and protection offered by the honey for colds and viruses mean that this is worth having too. The point is that the Manuka plant is a great resource for healthcare solutions, whichever way you go.