This year the world is facing the daunting challenge of combating the deadly COVID-19 virus. With the global community coming together in the wake of this unfolding tragedy, governments and health organizations across the world are taking bold action to protect people's health. Nonetheless we cannot rely on others alone to protect our wellbeing, or that of our families. It is important for all of us to take action at home; maintaining an active hygiene regime, practicing responsible social distancing, and also boosting our personal health / immune system wherever possible.
What is COVID-19
COVID-19 is a virus, like the flu, measles, or shingles. Although it behaves like the flu which we are used to, COVID-19 is much more dangerous. Not only does the virus have a higher mortality rate than the typical flu virus, there is also no pre-existing immunity within the population to slow it down.
Viruses such as COVID-19 spread from person to person easily. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, touches or talks, they may spread the virus to other surfaces. Importantly, this transferal of the infection can occur before the infected individual shows symptoms of being sick. For these reasons it is important that we all practice good hygiene, regularly wash and dry our hands, and use good cough etiquette.
Can Manuka Honey Help Stop the COVID-19 Virus?
Australian Manuka Honey is perhaps best known for its natural antibacterial and nutritional properties. These health benefits are attributed to the unique capacity of Manuka honey to maintain its antibacterial activity, even after it is removed from the hive. This activity can be rated by measuring the amount of Methylglyoxal (MGO) the honey contains.
Several research studies have found the MGO in Manuka Honey is effective at inhibiting flu viruses, including the H1N1 swine flu. It is not just the Manuka Honey on its own that makes a difference. More importantly, when it is combined with other antiviral and antibacterial therapies it makes them work even better.
Although this research has focused primarily on applying Manuka Honey to the skin, there is increasing research that shows Manuka Honey provides benefits when taken internally as well, such as for combating breathing or digestive infections.
So, can Manuka Honey stop me getting a virus?
Well, it may not stop it but it does seem to be able to boost your immune system to minimize the risk of you getting a virus, reduce viral activity and help you recover quicker.
Honey has been trusted for centuries by those looking for relief from illness, and now that modern science has confirmed the pro-wellbeing properties of Australian Manuka Honey - perhaps now is the time to try the natural ingredients that have stood the test of time. Add high grade MGO Manuka Honey to your COVID-19 protection plan.
Key points to remember when selecting your Manuka Honey for immune support:
- Check the MGO rating. Medicinal grade Manuka Honey starts at 200+ MGO, but the higher the rating, the better.
- Remember not to give any honey to infants (aged under one year old) unless recommended by a healthcare professional
What else can I do to protect against catching a virus?
There are simple things you can do to help reduce the risk of catching a virus and getting sick. This is especially important in reducing the spreads of COVID-19.
- Regularly wash your hands
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if you can’t wash your hands
- Use paper hand towels not dryers to dry your hands
- Cover your mouth and nose with the inside of your elbow (not hand) when you cough or sneeze
- Stay home if you’re feeling unwell
- Avoid contact with people who are coughing and sneezing
Manuka Honey is great all year round
You want to be out there living life to the fullest, not stuck inside feeling unwell. Use Manuka Honey products all year round to boost your immune system and reduce the risk of getting sick.