The science behind Australian Manuka.
For more than a decade, Australian universities have been at the forefront of Manuka honey research. Their work is helping explain why Australian Manuka is special, how its antibacterial strength is measured, and what distinguishes it from any other honey in the world.
Why Australian Manuka is different.
Humans have used honey to heal for thousands of years, and modern science now explains why Manuka is different. Manuka’s characteristic non-peroxide antibacterial activity is strongly associated with methylglyoxal (MGO). Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), naturally present in the nectar of certain Manuka species, converts progressively to MGO as the honey matures. Researchers at the Technical University of Dresden identified MGO as a major antibacterial component in 2008. MGO can be measured directly and accurately by laboratory analysis and is now widely used as an indicator of Manuka honey’s antibacterial activity.
Australian Manuka is both strong and verifiably genuine. Independent testing has found MGO in Australian Manuka at levels comparable to, and in some cases higher than, those recorded in New Zealand honey, with some Australian samples reaching up to 1,100 mg/kg (Cokcetin et al., 2016). Research has also identified chemical markers characteristic of Manuka honey. Recent work quantified leptosperin at up to 2,031 mg/kg in Australian Manuka – almost three times the highest level measured in New Zealand honey in the same study (Brooks et al., 2024). Australian Manuka carrying the AMHA Mark of Authenticity is independently tested and subject to defined standards for authenticity, origin and traceability.
MEASURED IN THE LAB
1,100
MG/KG MGO
Recorded in Australian Leptospermum honey (Cokcetin et al., 2016).
2,031
MG/KG LEPTOSPERIN
Up to around three times New Zealand’s highest recorded level (Brooks et al., 2024).
2008
MGO IDENTIFIED
Confirmed as Manuka’s active antibacterial component (TU Dresden).
Australian Manuka
Australian Manuka Diversity
Australia is the evolutionary home of Manuka, with more than 80 native species historically classified within Leptospermum. Following a major taxonomic revision in 2023, many of these species are now classified within related genera of the tribe Leptospermeae. The underlying Australian botanical diversity has not changed; the taxonomy has.
This diversity is a national advantage. This botanical diversity gives Australia an extraordinary range of Manuka-producing landscapes and creates significant opportunities for ongoing research into the chemistry and bioactivity of different Australian species. As testing extends across more of these species, the evidence base for Australian Manuka keeps growing, and with it the case for Australian honey in markets that have long defaulted to New Zealand.
Uses & applications.
01
Wound care and clinical use
Manuka honey has been extensively studied for wound care, where its antibacterial properties have supported its use in specialised medical dressings. Clinical research has examined its use in chronic venous leg ulcers, non-healing wounds and diabetic foot ulcers, with studies reporting outcomes including reduced bacterial colonisation and improved wound healing. Therapeutic honey products are regulated in Australia and should be used according to their approved purpose.
Explore the research
02
Antioxidant and immune research
Research demonstrates that Manuka honey interacts with important components of the human immune response and oxidative stress pathways. Studies using primary human neutrophils have shown that Manuka honey can reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS), neutrophil extracellular trap formation (NETosis) and the release of pro-inflammatory mediators. Research also points to naturally occurring compounds within Manuka honey, including methyl syringate, as important contributors to these effects. Together, these findings provide growing evidence of Manuka honey's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
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Studies using primary human neutrophils have shown that Manuka honey and naturally occurring compounds within it can influence oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, including reductions in reactive oxygen species (ROS), NETosis and pro-inflammatory mediators (Main et al., 2024; Main et al., 2026). These findings contribute to a growing evidence base around Manuka honey's antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties.
03
Skin and topical research
Manuka honey has been studied for a range of topical and skin applications, supported by its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Human studies have investigated its use in conditions including atopic dermatitis, while a broader clinical evidence base supports the use of medical-grade Manuka honey in wound care and tissue repair. Research continues to explore its potential in skincare and topical formulations.
Explore the research
Research suggests Manuka honey may support healthy skin by improving the appearance and condition of the skin. In a pilot study, nightly application for seven days improved the appearance of atopic dermatitis lesions (Alangari et al., 2017). More recently, an eight-week facial serum containing Manuka honey, royal jelly and bee venom was associated with improvements in self-reported skin dryness, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, hyperpigmentation and overall skin appearance.
04
Culinary use
Manuka’s distinctive rich, malty flavour makes it as interesting in the kitchen as it is to researchers. Enjoy it by the spoonful, stirred through yoghurt or porridge, paired with cheese, or used as a glaze. Gentle warming helps preserve the characteristics that make Manuka honey distinctive.
Research & publications.
The evidence behind Australian Manuka, gathered in one place. Filter by topic to find the studies most relevant to you. Each entry links to the original publication.
The science, answered
Straight answers on MGO, DHA and the evidence behind Australian Manuka.
What does the MGO number mean?
MGO is the concentration of methylglyoxal in milligrams per kilogram. It is the direct measure of a Manuka honey’s natural antibacterial strength.
What is the difference between MGO and DHA?
DHA occurs in the nectar of Manuka flowers and converts naturally into MGO as the honey matures. The presence of DHA supports the natural development of activity from Manuka nectar; the MGO level shows the measured concentration of methylglyoxal.
Is Australian Manuka scientifically proven?
The science, proven on every jar.
The Mark of Authenticity puts this evidence on the shelf: independently tested, traceable, genuinely Australian.