Honey may all look the same at first glance, but the power inside the jar can vary more than most people realize. Here’s what separates a daily drizzle from a truly therapeutic spoonful.
When Honey Isn’t Just Honey Anymore
It starts off simple: a sore throat, a small skin wound, maybe a long week that leaves your body needing something more than just rest. Many people instinctively reach for honey. But the results they get often vary—and the reason lies in what type of honey they’re using.
While raw honey has long been praised for its natural enzymes and trace nutrients, it’s not always the powerhouse people expect for deeper health support. That’s where a very specific type of honey steps into the spotlight—one that’s been earning more attention across Melbourne and health circles throughout Australia.
Why Raw Isn’t Always Enough
Raw honey is definitely better than heavily processed supermarket honey. It’s not heated at high temperatures, which helps preserve some of its natural goodness like antioxidants and small amounts of pollen. It’s ideal for sweetening tea or pairing with lemon for a homemade cough remedy.
But here’s the issue: not all raw honeys contain strong antibacterial or therapeutic properties. That means while it’s helpful for general wellness, it may fall short when you’re counting on honey to do more than taste good.
So what sets healing honeys apart?
A Real-World Look from Parramatta
Consider the experience of Kieran, a 47-year-old café owner from Parramatta. After developing a stubborn sore throat during allergy season, he tried the usual home remedies: lemon, ginger, and spoonfuls of his favorite raw honey. But the relief was minimal and short-lived.
During a visit to a natural health store near Westfield Parramatta, a shopkeeper recommended manuka honey 850 for its higher concentration of antibacterial compounds. Skeptical but curious, Kieran gave it a try.
Within days of using a teaspoon a day, his throat discomfort eased noticeably. It wasn’t just placebo—he felt stronger, slept better, and noticed he wasn’t waking up as congested. The store assistant later explained that the “850” referred to a high MGO (methylglyoxal) level, which correlates with the honey’s medicinal strength.
That single jar changed his perception of honey—and he wasn’t alone. Others in his area began to ask the same questions.
So What Does “850” Really Mean?
The number associated with Manuka honey usually refers to its MGO content—a naturally occurring compound that gives Manuka its antibacterial punch.
- MGO 850 means the honey contains 850 mg of methylglyoxal per kilogram. That’s a significant potency, often used for immune support, skin healing, or digestive health.
- For comparison, entry-level Manuka honeys might start around MGO 100–200. Those can be helpful for daily wellness but are not typically used for stronger therapeutic purposes.
This is why manuka honey 850 is often found in homes where the goal is to support recovery, not just daily maintenance.
The Melbourne Shift: From Sweetener to Supplement
In manuka honey Australia Melbourne health shops, there’s been a quiet shift. Several boutique health stores—especially in areas like Fitzroy, Richmond, and Southbank—have begun shelving higher-potency honeys away from general pantry products.
One store manager in Carlton explained that they noticed customers buying the wrong honey for the wrong reason. “People were picking up low-MGO jars thinking they were just as strong as the expensive ones. So we started separating them with clear signs: ‘General Use’ vs. ‘Medicinal Grade.'”
That small act of education created more confident shoppers. Now, many regulars understand when to reach for raw honey and when to choose Manuka.
What to Look For Before You Buy
If you’re considering using Manuka for more than just flavor, here’s what to check:
- MGO Rating: Look for 850+ if you want therapeutic strength.
- Origin: True Manuka comes from New Zealand or southeastern Australia.
- Certifications: Some brands also include UMF ratings for cross-reference.
- Packaging: Opt for dark jars—they protect the active compounds from light.
Is It Worth the Price?
Higher MGO Manuka honeys aren’t cheap. But if you’re dealing with something like lingering sore throats, skin irritation, or immune imbalance, it’s more than just a sweetener—it’s a natural ally.
Think of it this way: you’re not buying honey to spread on toast. You’re buying it for a purpose. And when that purpose is to feel better, faster, the extra investment starts to make sense.
Final Thoughts: Knowing the Difference Matters
The days of lumping all honey into one category are over. From Parramatta to Melbourne, more Australians are learning to read beyond the label and ask the right questions. Whether you’re trying to soothe a sore throat or simply want to buy Manuka honey for seasonal support, knowing how to choose the right strength makes all the difference.
Because when it comes to true healing, potency really does matter.