Hay fever sufferers may find relief from their runny noses and itchy eyes by regularly consuming manuka honey, according to a registered dietitian. Tracy Lockwood, based in New York City, explained that the active ingredient methylglyoxal (MGL) in manuka honey can be effective against nasal mucus.
“The active ingredient, MGL methylglyoxal, has been shown to be effective for treatments against nasal mucus - which is [one of the symptoms] you experience when you have allergies,” Ms Lockwood told Well+Good. She noted that while the direct link to allergies is not established, MGL can treat nasal mucus regardless of its cause, whether from colds, flu, or respiratory infections.
Manuka honey contains significantly higher levels of methylglyoxal (also labelled as MGO on jars) compared to regular honey. While a spoonful of standard honey in tea can help clear the nose, Ms Lockwood said manuka honey “will go the extra mile” due to its medicinal properties.
Beyond hay fever, manuka honey is also used to treat burns and wounds, according to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Some individuals even claim it can help with acne, though many benefits remain speculative.
