Manuka honey is a type of honey produced in New Zealand and Australia from the nectar of the Leptospermum scoparium, commonly known as the manuka tree. It has gained popularity in recent years due to its purported health benefits. Manuka honey contains methylglyoxal, a compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties [1]. Some research suggests it may aid wound healing, treat digestive issues, and improve dental health in humans [2]. There is also emerging research on the potential benefits of manuka honey for dogs. It may help soothe kennel cough, improve dental health, and heal skin infections when applied topically. However, more research is still needed to fully validate these uses in canine medicine.
What is Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey originates in New Zealand and Australia where bees pollinate the flowers of the native manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium). This type of honey is produced by introducing European honey bees to areas where the manuka bush grows wild. The bees pollinate the manuka flowers and collect the nectar to bring back to their hives to produce the honey.
What makes manuka honey unique compared to traditional honey is the presence of methylglyoxal (MGO). This compound is found in high concentrations in manuka honey due to the phytochemicals in the manuka flowers. MGO is thought to give manuka honey its antibacterial properties [1]. Additionally, the harvesting and production process is carefully controlled to ensure the antibacterial activity (measured as the Unique Manuka Factor or UMF) meets certain standards.
Manuka honey is also distinctly darker, thicker and has a richer, earthier taste compared to traditional honey. The highest quality manuka honey is produced in New Zealand under license and labeled with a UMF rating indicating its antibacterial strength.
Benefits of Manuka Honey for Humans
Manuka honey has been found to have many beneficial health effects for humans, especially in wound healing and fighting infection. Studies show that Manuka honey has powerful antibacterial properties that can help prevent and treat infections when applied topically. The antibacterial effects come from a unique compound called methylglyoxal (MG) that is found at much higher concentrations in Manuka honey compared to regular honey.
Research demonstrates that Manuka honey inhibits the growth of a wide range of bacteria including antibiotic-resistant superbugs like MRSA. It helps keep wounds sterile by preventing bacterial growth. Multiple clinical trials have found that applying medical-grade Manuka honey shortens healing time in people with wounds, leg ulcers, and burns compared to conventional treatments.
In addition to antibacterial effects, Manuka honey also provides anti-inflammatory benefits. It reduces inflammation and inflammation-related pain when applied to wounds and injuries. The honey helps draw excess moisture out of inflamed tissues while providing a protective barrier. This can aid the overall healing process.
Manuka honey also stimulates the production of cytokines, growth factors, and enzymes that promote tissue regeneration. This helps accelerate wound closure and skin repair. Overall the evidence demonstrates that Manuka honey has unique medicinal properties that make it highly beneficial for promoting healing in humans when used topically.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/manuka-honey-medicinal-uses
Benefits of Manuka Honey for Dogs
Manuka honey has several health benefits when given to dogs. Here are some of the main ways it can help improve your dog’s health:
Wound Healing
Multiple studies have shown that manuka honey can help heal wounds in dogs. The antibacterial properties of manuka honey can prevent infections and aid the healing process for injuries, hot spots, rashes, burns, and post-surgical wounds [1]. The honey helps keep the wound moist and promotes new tissue growth. It also reduces inflammation and pain. Veterinarians often recommend using medical-grade manuka honey wound dressings and ointments for faster healing.
Digestive Health
Manuka honey contains beneficial enzymes and probiotics that can support digestive health in dogs. The prebiotics in manuka honey help nourish good bacteria in a dog’s gut, improving digestion and reducing stomach issues like diarrhea and vomiting. Some research also suggests manuka honey may help relieve inflammatory bowel disease in dogs by reducing gut inflammation [2].
Allergies
The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of manuka honey may help dogs with skin allergies and itchiness. Applying manuka honey topically can soothe and heal hot spots, rashes, hives, and other skin irritations caused by allergies. The honey can also support the immune system when ingested to reduce overall allergy symptoms.
Recommended Dosage for Dogs
The typical dosage of Manuka honey for dogs depends on the dog’s weight. According to ManukaGuard, the general guidelines are:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): 1/4 teaspoon per day
- Medium dogs (21-50 lbs): 1/2 teaspoon per day
- Large dogs (51-90 lbs): 1 teaspoon per day
- Extra large dogs (over 90 lbs): Up to 2 teaspoons per day
For treating specific conditions like wounds or kennel cough, the dosage may be increased. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian for condition-specific dosing.
In terms of frequency, Manuka honey can be given once or twice daily. For digestive issues, it can be given before meals. For overall immune support and wound healing, once daily is usually sufficient.
The easiest way to administer Manuka honey is to add it to your dog’s food. You can stir it into wet food or mix it with peanut butter or pumpkin puree if you feed dry kibble. Just make sure your dog eats all of the honey-coated food.
Risks and Side Effects
Like any supplement, there are some potential risks and side effects to be aware of when giving manuka honey to dogs:
Diabetes: Honey contains natural sugars, so it’s not recommended for diabetic dogs as it can spike blood sugar levels. Consult your vet first if your dog has diabetes [1].
Toxicity: Manuka honey is safe for dogs in small amounts, but can cause toxicity if large amounts are consumed. Signs include vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and lack of coordination. Do not exceed the recommended dosage for dogs without vet approval [2].
Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to components in honey like bee pollen. Discontinue use if you notice any signs of an allergic reaction.
Interactions: Manuka honey can interact with some medications like insulin, warfarin, and certain antibiotics. Check with your vet about potential interactions.
Quality: Be sure to purchase high-quality medical grade manuka honey meant for dogs. Lower quality versions may contain toxins or impurities.
Most healthy dogs can safely take manuka honey in moderation when following dosage guidelines. But it’s best to consult your vet first, especially for dogs with health conditions.
Interactions with Medications
There are a few key interactions to be aware of when giving Manuka honey to dogs on certain medications:
Diabetes Medications: Manuka honey has a high sugar content. This can affect blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs. Monitor glucose closely when first using Manuka honey in dogs on insulin or other diabetes treatments (source).
Anticoagulants: Manuka honey may increase clotting time in dogs on blood thinning medications like warfarin. Use caution and consult a vet when combining Manuka honey and anticoagulants (source).
Antibiotics: The antibacterial activity of Manuka honey creates concerns about interactions with antibiotic drugs. However, research shows Manuka honey generally does not interact negatively with antibiotics like amoxicillin. In fact, it may boost antibiotic effectiveness in some cases (source).
Choosing a Manuka Honey Product
When choosing a Manuka honey product for your dog, there are a few things to look for to ensure you’re getting a quality product:
Look for a honey that is labeled as “UMF Manuka Honey”. This stands for Unique Manuka Factor and ensures the honey has been tested for its antibacterial potency. The UMF number rates the honey on a scale of 5+ to 25+, with higher numbers indicating higher antibacterial strength. For dogs, a UMF rating of 10+ or higher is recommended. UMF Manuka Honey for Dogs & Horses.
Choose a honey that is raw and unpasteurized to preserve its natural enzymes and antibacterial properties. Many Manuka honey products for human consumption are pasteurized, so check the label when purchasing for your dog.
Look for products specifically formulated for pets, as they often contain fewer added ingredients. Avoid products with unnecessary fillers or additives.
When possible, select a New Zealand-sourced honey. New Zealand has strict standards for certifying and labeling authentic Manuka honey.
Avoid very cheap products, as they may be diluted or contain little actual Manuka honey. High quality Manuka honey tends to be moderately expensive.
Purchase from a reputable brand and vendor known for selling genuine Manuka honey products. Unfortunately, some products are fraudulently labeled as Manuka honey.
Check the expiration date and avoid purchasing Manuka honey that is very old, as the antibacterial potency can decrease over time.
Administering Manuka Honey to Your Dog
There are a few ways to give manuka honey to your dog:
Mixing with food: One easy way to give manuka honey is to stir some into your dog’s regular food. Start with a teaspoon per meal and monitor your dog’s reaction. You can gradually increase the dosage if needed.[1]
Giving directly: You can also administer manuka honey directly into your dog’s mouth. Use a spoon to give your dog 1-2 teaspoons per day. Make sure to start with a small amount at first.[2]
For treating specific conditions, you may need to give higher therapeutic doses as recommended by your veterinarian. Always monitor your dog closely when first starting manuka honey to watch for any adverse reactions.
The Bottom Line
In summary, Manuka honey can provide several benefits for dogs when used appropriately. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help treat skin conditions, wounds, kennel cough, ear infections, and digestive issues in dogs. The active ingredients methylglyoxal and Leptosperin make Manuka honey more potent than regular honey.
Manuka honey is generally safe for dogs when used in small amounts, around 1/4 to 1 teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight, 1-2 times per day. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian before giving Manuka honey to your dog, especially if your dog is on medication or has other health conditions. Purchase medical-grade Manuka honey and select a honey with a UMF rating of at least 10+ for potency. Monitor your dog closely when first using Manuka honey.
While Manuka honey can provide benefits, it should not replace conventional veterinary treatment. Use it cautiously and discontinue use if any negative side effects occur. Overall, Manuka honey can be a helpful supplement to promote your dog’s health and wellbeing when used properly.
