Because of its long isolation from the rest of the world and its island biogeography, New Zealand has extraordinary flora and fauna. About 80% of the flora occurs only in New Zealand, one being the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium). Manuka is a unique evergreen tree, native to New Zealand. Its intensely scented flowers bloom in summer and bees absolutely love them.

UMF Honey
The Unique Manuka Honey (UMF) found only in selective Manuka honey describes the anti-bacterial property (from non peroxide activity), sought after for its qualities that support health and wellbeing. Independent laboratory testing determines the UMF value after the honey is packaged. The higher the UMF level, the higher the level of anti-bacterial benefits.
Besides the health promoting properties this product has wide appeal as a pleasurable eating experience! The dark cream to dark brown honey produced by the bees from the nectar of the flowers has a distinctive taste profile: slightly bitter, mineral, herbaceous.

UMF is the registered name and trademark of the Active Manuka Honey Association (AMHA) and can be used only by licensed users who meet set criteria which include regular monitoring and auditing of the quality of their honey. UMF Manuka Honey from a New Zealand company licensed to use the name UMF, and labelled in the licensee’s name, is the only honey guaranteed to have the special UMF healing property and be of the same quality as that referred to in the research and clinical trials. Honey New Zealand licence number is 1043.  (www.umf.org.nz)

What can UMF Honey do for you?
Honey New Zealand UMF Manuka honey can be taken by eating or application to the skin surface. Its anti-bacterial activity has an equivalent concentration to phenol (a common antiseptic). It supports the natural healing of wounds, and can help soothe the digestive tract as well as the throat.
The active ingredients and anti-oxidants in Honey New Zealand products can be used for added vitality, oral health, an active immunity or can assist digestive health.

UMF Ratings? 
0 - 4:    Not detectable               

5 - 9:    Maintenance Level         

10 - 14:    Suitable for therapeutic usage

15 and higher:   Superior levels with very high activity levels for therapeutic usage                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

For more information on the difference between 'UMF' Manuka Honey & 'Active' please refer to the Q&A section of this website.