Is Manuka honey worth the hefty price tag? Find out what makes it so special – and expensive!
Ever wondered, “Why is Manuka honey so expensive?” I know I have!
It’s got such a fantastic reputation, but what’s the deal with the price? Why does it cost more than your regular honey jar?
Manuka honey is super expensive because it is very rare. The bees only pollinate the Manuka flower, which doesn’t bloom for very long. And the honey itself goes through a rigorous testing process.
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Let’s dive in, and I’ll tell you all about it – plus why you still might want to splurge on this golden sweet nectar!
You know I love natural DIY skincare and beauty products. So, I can’t help but wonder if we should be using Manuka honey in our recipes?
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What is Manuka Honey and Why is it So Special?
Manuka honey isn’t your average jar of honey! It’s a true superstar in the clean and natural beauty industry.
It’s like the dazzling lead dancer in a ballet, stealing the spotlight with its extraordinary qualities! So, what’s the fuss all about?
The History of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey traces its roots back to New Zealand, where the native Māori people have known about its benefits for centuries. They used it for all sorts of things, like soothing sore throats and healing wounds.
But then legend has it that Captain James Cook, the famous British explorer, stumbled upon this sweet little treasure during his voyages in the 18th century! He noticed the Māori using this unique honey and was pretty impressed by its medicinal properties.
Fast forward to the 20th century, and scientists started buzzing around Manuka honey too.
They discovered something fascinating: the presence of an extraordinary compound called Methylglyoxal (MGO). This compound, found in high concentrations in Manuka honey, is like its secret sauce, giving it those incredible benefits everyone’s talking about.
As the world caught wind of this special honey and its potential health benefits, Manuka honey found its way into skincare routines, wellness practices, and even culinary delights.
Today, it’s a coveted superstar, loved for its unique history and amazing qualities. But it often comes with a hefty price tag.

The Characteristics of Manuka Honey
What makes Manuka honey different?
- Distinct Flavor and Aroma: It’s flavor is a bit earthy, with hints of eucalyptus. And it smells like a fragrant herb garden! It’s so pleasant and lovely to smell when I break out the first aid kit!
- Unique Texture and Color: It’s got this creamy, thick texture that’s just perfect for spreading on your morning toast. And the color is like liquid sunshine.
- The Magical MGO Factor: The secret sauce of Manuka honey is Methylglyoxal (MGO). Manuka has higher concentrations of MGO than normal honey.
It’s a culinary and health superstar all rolled into one sweet little jar! It works great inside and outside of the body.
The Benefits of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey isn’t just a pretty face in the world of honey! It’s packed with benefits that can truly elevate your skincare game.
Here’s what makes it worth the buzz:
- Fights Acne: Manuka honey’s natural antibacterial properties can help reduce acne-causing bacteria, making it an effective tool in your skincare arsenal.
- Reduces Inflammation: It has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm down angry skin and reduce redness.
- Promotes Skin Regeneration: It helps your skin shed old cells to reveal a fresh, glowing complexion.
- Hydrates: It’s a natural humectant, meaning it draws moisture into your skin.
- Fades Scars: Its healing properties encourage the skin to repair itself, making scars less noticeable.
- Anti-Aging Properties: Manuka honey’s antioxidant-rich profile can help combat the signs of aging by neutralizing free radicals that contribute to skin aging.
Manuka honey isn’t just a skincare trend; it’s a total game-changer! And it’s so good for the rest of your body too!
It’s like the superhero of skincare, fighting off acne, calming down skin tantrums, and delivering that radiant glow. Which is why I recommend you use it in everything you make for your skin!

Why is Manuka Honey So Expensive?
Manuka honey is renowned for its exceptional qualities, but have you ever wondered why it comes with a hefty price tag? The answer is a little complicated.
Manuka Honey is Only Found in Certain Parts of the World
Manuka honey’s exclusivity is rooted in geography. It’s primarily produced in specific regions, notably New Zealand and parts of Australia. The pristine environments of these areas play a pivotal role in its creation.
The Manuka Tree Has a Short Flowering Window
Manuka honey isn’t a year-round delight. The Manuka tree, the source of nectar for this honey, has a brief flowering season. This limited window of opportunity for bees to gather nectar contributes to its scarcity and elevated price.
Authentic Manuka Honey is Made Only When Bees Pollinate the Manuka Flowers
To produce authentic Manuka honey, bees primarily gather nectar only from the Manuka flower.
Unlike many other types of honey where bees may forage from a variety of flowers, Manuka honey’s unique properties are attributed to the fact that bees predominantly collect nectar from the Manuka plant during the blooming season.
This exclusive source of nectar is what distinguishes Manuka honey from other honey varieties and contributes to its distinct flavor, aroma, and potential health benefits. It’s a monofloral honey.
Manuka Honey is Raw Honey
To maintain its natural goodness, Manuka honey is minimally processed, often classified as raw. This minimal processing preserves its health benefits and increases its value.
That’s why I recommend you avoid filtered honey if you can! All of those good nutrients brought from the bee’s pollen is taken out, which isn’t good for anyone.
The Highest Quality Manuka Honey Goes Through Extensive Testing
Manuka honey undergoes rigorous testing to ensure its authenticity and top-notch quality. The Unique Manuka Factor (UMF®) grading system goes beyond simple authenticity checks by scrutinizing Methylglyoxal (MGO) levels and other crucial compounds.
This thorough analysis guarantees the honey’s purity. But such rigorous testing can raise prices.
Following that is batch testing, far from a casual sample check. It’s an exacting process that assesses honey from every single batch.
This meticulous scrutiny ensures that every jar consistently contains high-quality honey, delivering its unique benefits consistently.

Genuine Manuka Honey is Produced with Ethical and Sustainable Practices
Manuka honey producers also take extra steps to ensure their bees are thriving. They create bee-friendly environments, monitor their bee health well, and even provide extra nourishment when needed.
Sustainable practices ensure Manuka trees keep thriving without harming nature, too. This involves responsible land management, avoiding harmful chemicals, and protecting natural habitats.
So, there you have it! Manuka honey’s high price isn’t just a random number; it’s a reflection of its unique qualities and the meticulous processes that go into creating this liquid gold.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? No problem! I’ve got answers!
And if you don’t see your question below, ask away in the comments. I’m happy to help!
What is So Special About Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is unique due to its exclusive source, Manuka flowers, which give it it’s distinct flavor, aroma, and potential health benefits.
It is also rigorously testing for quality and purity, and the honey in its raw form is full of minerals and nutrients.
Is it Worth Paying for Manuka Honey?
Yes, for its exceptional qualities and potential health perks, many find it worth the investment. I love to keep in on hand for wounds and skin care recipes and facials!
Is it OK to Have Manuka Honey Every Day?
Absolutely! In moderation, it can be a delicious and healthy addition to your daily routine. Try it on some toast or a bowl of granola and yogurt.
Is Manuka Honey Better Than Pure Honey?
Manuka honey is often preferred for skin and wound care due to its unique properties and potential benefits like fighting acne and reducing inflammation. However, both can be beneficial depending on your skin’s specific needs.
Why Does Pricing Vary So Much for Manuka Honey?
Various factors like quality, UMF® grade, and region of origin contribute to the price range.
What Should I Do with Manuka Honey?
You can use Manuka honey as a face mask, spot treatment for acne, or in DIY skincare recipes like scrubs and masks. It’s a versatile natural skincare ingredient!
In fact, here’s an easy DIY facial to get you started!
Or here’s a simple Manuka honey skincare recipe for you:

Manuka Honey Oatmeal Face Mask
You will need:
- 1 tablespoon Manuka honey
- 1½ teaspoon oats
- 1½ teaspoon jojoba oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients.
2. Mix them together until you have a smooth, consistent paste.
3. Apply the mask to your clean, dry face, avoiding the eye area.
4. Relax and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
5. After 15 minutes, rinse off the mask with lukewarm water.
6. Follow up with your regular skincare routine to lock in the benefits.
Notes:
- This recipe is suitable for all skin types.
- If you don’t have jojoba oil, you can substitute it with avocado or olive oil for added moisturization.
If you’re looking for Manuka honey, this particular honey here is my overall pick for high quality Manuka honey that will be good for facials and everyday use.
The UMF makes the potency just right for skin care and the occasional drink sweetener. And the price is great too!
If you want a more potent Manuka honey, this one here has a higher UMF that is great for wound care and stomach issues!
If you want a secret weapon in your medicine cabinet that you can use for the occasional facial, this is your best option!
Manuka Honey Facial

This DIY manuka honey facial will calm inflammation, moisturize your skin, and prevent and treat acne!
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl and apply to clean, dry skin.
- Wait about 15 minutes then wash off and proceed with your regular skin care routine.
Notes
This recipe is suitable for all skin types. But if you don’t have the carrier oil, you can omit it or substitute it with avocado or olive oil.
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