Kānuka Honey: The superfood native honey star
Mānuka honey is one of the world’s most famous honeys. Renowned for its superior antioxidant and healing properties.
But there is another underrated superfood, honey, rising through the ranks.
Meet New Zealand native, Kānuka honey.
Research has started to uncover the secrets of another native New Zealand honey from the Kānuka (kunzea ericoides) tree.
It is fast becoming clear that Kānuka honey could be the next super honey.
It’s packed with AGP (Arabinogalactan proteins). The very same bioactive proteins are found in the cell walls of other superfood plants like blueberries. Goji berries, echinacea and seaweed.
AGP has been scientifically proven to be immunostimulatory, meaning it can stimulate the immune system.
Topically, it can be applied directly to skin to treat inflammation from conditions such as acne, eczema and rosacea, even cold sores.
It is a delicious honey with a delicate butterscotch flavour. A culinary household favourite, but powerful enough to be in the medicine cabinet too.
Mānuka Honey vs Kānuka Honey
| Type | Mānuka Honey | Kānuka Honey |
| Source | Mānuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium) | Kānuka tree (Kunzea ericoides) |
| Colour | Deep, golden colour. | Buttery light to pale gold and amber hues. |
| Taste | Rich, floral, creamy. | Crisp, aromatic butterscotch. |
| Aroma | Earthy, aromatic, complex. | Fruity, floral, caramel brulee. |
| Texture | Thick, creamy and smooth. | Velvety, silky, creamy and smooth. |
| Beneficial Properties | High antibacterial activity (MGO), strong wound-healing properties. | Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, wound and burn healing. |
| Availability | Limited summer harvest. Premium grades are rare and expensive. | Limited supply and short harvesting season. |
| Foodie Guide | Great for baking, breakfast and for marinating meat and fish. Even drizzled over pizza. Strong flavour profile. | Tea, smoothies, or as a spread, adds depth to dishes, and its unique flavour makes it an excellent base for marinades or dressings. |
Health benefits of Kānuka Honey
The humble Kānuka honey has a wide range of health and wellness benefits, more than just a favourite toast topper.
Traditionally, the bark, seeds and leaves of both Mānuka and Kānuka were used by Māori to treat wounds, inflammation, burns, coughs and gastrointestinal issues.
- Apply topically to heal wounds and cuts
- Treats cold sores while promoting oral health
- Reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and protect against stomach ulcers
Always consult your medical practitioner before using any honey products as a health or wellness tool. This content is meant to be used as a guide, but doesn’t constitute or substitute any medical advice.
All of our honey products at TranzAlpine Honey are proudly certified organic since 1993.
All of our products are non-GMO and organically certified, processed and packed in New Zealand.
All of our products are certified or approved by:
- The Vegetarian Society
- USDA organic certification equivalent
- HALAL certified
- US FDA approved.
- A Fernmark-licensed brand.
Each batch of honey is independently and rigorously tested, audited and certified by MPI and BioGro™ NZ.
Getting your favourite honey from the New Zealand Alps directly to your door has never been easier.
Order online today, and we deliver worldwide within 7 days.
Shop online, collect your organic club points and save.
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Posted in Natural Health, Organic
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