Manuka honey is celebrated for its potent antibacterial properties, making it an traditional natural remedy for wound care by reducing infections and promoting healing.

Its antimicrobial effects also make it a soothing option for sore throats and reducing inflammation.

Beyond its antibacterial effects, manuka honey supports digestive health, and its rich antioxidant content supports the immune system.

Every batch of Mother Earth UMF™ Mānuka Honey has been tested and certified in an independent lab. UMF™ quality assurance independently certifies four factors in mānuka honey and summarises them in a single figure.

Leptosperin – unique to the nectar of mānuka flowers. Proves the authenticity of the honey
MGO – provides honey’s antibacterial properties. Shows the potency of the honey
DHA – slowly converts to MGO for healthy, living honey. Shows the shelf life of the honey
HMF – assures honey is in the best condition. Shows the freshness of the honey

The higher the UMF™ number, the higher the presence of mānuka honey’s unique signature compounds.

UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) and MGO (Methylglyoxal) are both grading systems used to assess the potency and quality of manuka honey, specifically in terms of its antibacterial properties.

1. UMF (Unique Manuka Factor)
The UMF grading system is one of the most recognised ways to measure the quality of manuka honey and is regulated by the Unique Manuka Factor Honey Association (UMFHA) in New Zealand. A UMF rating indicates the presence and levels of three main antibacterial components in manuka honey:

MGO (Methylglyoxal): The primary antibacterial compound.
DHA (Dihydroxyacetone): Found in the nectar of manuka flowers and converted to MGO over time.
Leptosperin: A naturally occurring chemical marker that helps to authenticate genuine manuka honey.
UMF Scale: The higher the UMF rating, the higher the concentration of these compounds. Ratings typically range from UMF 5+ to UMF 20+, with UMF 10+ and above considered potent and beneficial for health purposes.

2. MGO (Methylglyoxal)
MGO is a specific compound in manuka honey directly linked to its antibacterial properties. The MGO rating measures the precise concentration of methylglyoxal, so an MGO 250+ means that the honey contains at least 250 mg/kg of MGO.

MGO Scale: MGO ratings generally range from MGO 100+ to MGO 800+, with higher numbers indicating stronger antibacterial activity.