Introduction
If you’re tossing and turning at night searching for a natural way to relax and drift off to sleep, you might not have to look further than New Zealand’s own backyard. Manuka honey—renowned worldwide for its healing powers—may also be a secret weapon for a better night’s sleep.
In this article, we’ll explore how Manuka honey can support restful sleep and how you can easily add it to your evening routine.
What is Manuka Honey and Why is It So Special?
Manuka honey is produced by bees that pollinate the flowers of the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), native to New Zealand.
What makes it unique?
– It has powerful antibacterial properties, thanks to high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO).
– It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and healing benefits.
– It’s a natural source of energy, yet can promote relaxation and calm.
How Can Manuka Honey Support Better Sleep?
Balances Blood Sugar Levels Overnight
Taking a spoonful of Manuka honey before bed helps stabilize your blood sugar levels throughout the night.
Low blood sugar can trigger the release of stress hormones (like cortisol and adrenaline), which often leads to middle-of-the-night wakeups. Manuka honey provides a slow, steady release of glycogen to the liver, preventing these spikes.
Boosts Melatonin Production Naturally
The glucose in Manuka honey supports your brain in releasing insulin, which encourages the body to produce tryptophan—an amino acid that eventually converts into melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep.
Higher melatonin levels = deeper, more restful sleep.
Soothes the Mind and Body
Manuka honey has a calming, soothing effect. A small dose can signal your body that it’s time to relax and prepare for rest, making it an excellent addition to your wind-down routine.
How to Use Manuka Honey for Sleep: Simple Tips
Evening Ritual:
- Take 1 teaspoon of high-quality Manuka honey 30 minutes before bed.
- You can enjoy it straight from the spoon, or stir it into herbal tea (chamomile or lavender work beautifully).
Sleep Tonic Recipe Idea:
- – 1 cup warm almond milk
- – 1 tsp Manuka honey
- – A pinch of cinnamon
- – Optional: A few drops of vanilla
Sip slowly as part of your bedtime ritual.
What to Look For in Manuka Honey
Not all Manuka honey is created equal! For the best results:
- Look for a UMF rating* of 10+ or higher (Unique Manuka Factor)
- Choose New Zealand-sourced, certified Manuka honey
- Higher MGO levels are linked to stronger therapeutic benefits
*The UMF™ number on the label represents the amount of MGO in the bottle as well as providing a broader guarantee of authenticity, origin and composition. That number can range from UMF™ 5+ to UMF™ 20+. The higher the UMF™ rating, the more antibacterial activity Manuka honey has – and the more potent it is.
Bonus: Other Health Benefits of Manuka Honey
Besides supporting better sleep, Manuka honey is known for:
✨ Boosting immune health
✨ Healing sore throats and coughs
✨ Improving gut health
✨ Supporting wound healing and skin health
In a nutshell:
If you’re looking for a simple, natural addition to your nighttime routine, Manuka honey might just be the answer. Sourced from New Zealand’s pristine landscapes, it offers not only healing powers but also the potential for a more peaceful and restorative night’s sleep.