In the world of natural wellness, manuka honey holds a place of prestige. Known for its rich taste and powerful healing properties, this golden superfood has earned global recognition for supporting everything from immunity to skincare. But with so many options on the market, how do you know which brands truly offer the best manuka honey?
What Is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey is made by bees that pollinate the Leptospermum scoparium plant, also known as the manuka bush, native to Australia and New Zealand. Unlike regular honey, manuka honey contains high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a naturally occurring compound that gives it powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
In this article, we’ll break down what makes manuka honey special, what to look for in high-quality products, and which brands stand out in 2025. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a long-time fan, this guide will help you choose the best manuka honey for your needs.
It’s often used for:
- Boosting the immune system
- Treating sore throats and coughs
- Healing wounds and burns
- Improving digestion
- Enhancing skin health
Why Choose the Best Manuka Honey?
Not all manuka honey is created equal. To get real benefits, you need to buy honey that is raw, potent, and properly certified. High-quality manuka honey is not only more effective, but it’s also more likely to be ethically produced and safe for long-term use.
Here’s what sets the best manuka honey apart:
✅ Certified Ratings (UMF & MGO)
- UMF (Unique Manuka Factor): A third-party certification that verifies the honey’s antibacterial potency.
- MGO: Indicates the level of methylglyoxal in the honey. The higher the number, the stronger the honey.
Look for UMF 10+ or MGO 250+ if you’re using manuka honey for medicinal purposes.
✅ Raw and Unpasteurized
Raw manuka honey retains its natural enzymes and active compounds, which are often destroyed during pasteurization.
✅ Authentic Origin
Real manuka honey is sourced from New Zealand or Australia, where the Leptospermum plant grows natively. Be wary of blends or imported products with unclear origins.
The Best Manuka Brands of 2025
Here are some of the top manuka honey brands recommended by experts and loved by customers for their quality, transparency, and effectiveness.
⭐ 1. Comvita Manuka Honey
- Origin: New Zealand
- Certifications: UMF 5+ to UMF 20+
- Why It’s the Best:
Comvita is one of the most recognized manuka honey brands in the world. With over 45 years of experience, they offer independently tested and traceable honey that’s trusted for both daily wellness and medicinal use.
⭐ 2. Berringa Australian Manuka Honey
- Origin: Australia
- Certifications: MGO 120+ to MGO 900+
- Why It’s the Best:
Berringa is an industry leader in Australian manuka. Their honey is sustainably sourced, rigorously tested, and ideal for those who want raw, unfiltered honey from local farms.
⭐ 3. Manukora
- Origin: New Zealand
- Certifications: UMF and MGO rated
- Why It’s the Best:
Known for their eco-conscious approach and beautiful packaging, Manukora produces small-batch honey that’s perfect for wellness lovers who care about quality and sustainability.
⭐ 4. WildCape Manuka Honey
- Origin: East Cape, New Zealand
- Certifications: UMF 15+ and up
- Why It’s the Best:
WildCape offers monofloral manuka honey from one of New Zealand’s most remote and pristine regions. It’s pure, potent, and packed with natural goodness.
⭐ 5. Honey for Life
- Origin: Tasmania, Australia
- Certifications: MGO 250+ and above
- Why It’s the Best:
A boutique honey brand known for its artisanal production methods and commitment to purity. Ideal for skincare applications and immune support.
Where to Buy the Best Manuka Honey
You can find these top brands at:
- Health food stores like Whole Foods, The Source Bulk Foods, and Sprouts
- Online retailers such as Amazon, iHerb, and Nourished Life
- Pharmacies and natural wellness shops in your local area
Always buy from reputable sellers and check that the product is sealed and labeled with UMF or MGO ratings.
How to Use Manuka Honey for Health Benefits
Once you’ve chosen the best manuka honey, here are some easy and effective ways to use it:
✨ Daily Wellness Boost
Take a teaspoon each morning on an empty stomach to support immunity and digestion.
✨ Sore Throat Relief
Stir into warm (not boiling) lemon water to soothe inflammation and fight bacteria.
✨ Natural Skincare
Apply directly to acne, minor cuts, or irritated skin. Let it sit for 15–20 minutes before rinsing.
✨ Digestive Aid
Mix into smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal for gut-friendly benefits.
✨ Sleep Support
Combine with chamomile tea or warm milk to promote restful sleep and reduce nighttime coughing.
Signs of Fake or Low-Quality Manuka Honey
Unfortunately, the growing popularity of manuka honey has led to an increase in fake or misleading products. Here’s what to watch out for:
- No certification (UMF or MGO missing from label)
- Labels using vague terms like “active honey” without rating
- Very cheap price for high-grade claims (if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is)
- No batch number or traceability information
Stick to reputable brands with transparent sourcing and verified lab testing.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re using it for immunity, skincare, or just as a luxurious treat, manuka honey is a powerful and natural way to support your health. But quality matters—choosing the best manuka honey ensures you’re getting all the benefits without compromise.
With trusted brands like Comvita, Berringa, and Manukora leading the way, there’s never been a better time to add manuka honey to your daily wellness routine.
Just remember: look for UMF or MGO certifications, choose raw and unprocessed products, and buy from reputable sources. That way, you’ll enjoy every spoonful—knowing it’s as pure and potent as nature intended.