Our UMF® Manuka Honey is gathered from the evergreen tree Leptospermum scoparium, native to New Zealand. The Manuka tree has intensely scented flowers that bloom in summer to produce a honey that is cream to dark brown in colour. The aroma of Manuka Honey has been described as being earthy and aromatic. The taste is sweet, with notes that are slightly bitter, tangy or herbaceous. UMF® Honey has antibacterial properties that originate from the presence of hydrogen peroxide (a powerful antibacterial agent) and other properties that have been grouped and named Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) that confer specific health benefits. The UMF® ratings are obtained in a similar way to the Active Honey. The potency of the honey is determined by the rating it receives during independent laboratory testing.

Compared to Active Manuka Honey, UMF® Manuka Honey exhibits antibacterial activities over and above that of hydrogen peroxide. UMF® Manuka Honey antibacterial potency is not affected by light or diluted, studies have found that the antibacterial activity of UMF® Honey is likely to increase over time. UMF® Manuka Honey is more stable over time, does not break down with heat, light or body enzymes.

For a product to be genuine UMF® rated it needs to have a registered name and trademark of the Active Manuka Honey Association (AMHA) and can be used only by licensed users who meet set criteria which include regular monitoring and auditing of the quality of their honey. UMF ®Manuka Honey from New Zealand licensed to use the name UMF, and labeled in the licensee's name, is the only honey guaranteed to have the special UMF® healing property and be of the same quality as that referred to in the research and clinical trials. Natural Alternative License number is 1043.

UMF® Levels:
• UMF® 5+ Manuka is low in its level of UMF® activity and is good for general wellbeing or maintenance
• UMF ®10+ Manuka is the good starting point for those requiring a UMF Honey with some therapeutic benefit.
• UMF ®15+ Manuka is medium in its level of UMF ®activity and is good for those requiring a UMF® Honey with some therapeutic benefit.

Natural Alternative UMF® Manuka Honey can be used by eating it directly or by application to the skin surface. It can support the body's natural healing of wounds and may help soothe the digestive tract as well as the throat. The UMF® ingredients as well as the antioxidants will give you added vitality, provide you with oral health, boost your immunity and assist with your digestive health.

Step up to UMF® activity rating when you are feeling unwell, the natural antioxidant and antibacterial qualities can be obtained with this delicious natural remedy!

For more information on honey research please visit University of Waikato, NZ: Honey Research Unit http://bio.waikato.ac.nz/honey/