Jarrah Honey vs Manuka Honey

Why Jarrah Hits the Sweet Spot

Global Good Media, 9/6/2012

Battle Between Jarrah and Manuka Honey

Originating in New Zealand and Australia, both Jarrah and Manuka honey possess high antibacterial antimicrobial properties that make these substances highly efficient at fending off illness and curing many bodily ailments. Both types of honey contain 100% pure honey with no additives in order to preserve its natural flavor and healing properties. Due to their low glucose levels, many individuals opt for these types of honey as sweeteners in recipes and cooking. In addition, both Manuka and Jarrah honey can be used as a relaxation agent in drinks or as a healing agent in wound dressings. While both types of honey contain many similar properties, their origination is quite different which makes Jarrah and Manuka honey slightly different in nature.

All About Manuka Honey

Manuka honey was first introduced by European honey bees, which feed on the Manuka or Tea trees. These trees often grow uncultivated throughout New Zealand and Australia, explaining its prevalence in these areas. One attribute that makes Manuka honey unique is its thixotropic properties, which makes it thick when chilled and thin when shaken or warmed. Actually, Manuka honey has proven to possess one of the highest viscosities amongst many studied types of honey. However, one downfall of this honey type is the resemblance to the Kanuka, which makes it difficult for even apiarists can not readily differentiate between the two species.

Benefits of Jarrah Honey

Though Manuka honey provides a wide array of health benefits, Jarrah honey is unique in its ability to heal wounds, skin infections, and burns efficiently. Derived from bees that pollinate Darling Range nectar flowers on Australian Jarrah trees, this type of honey is dark and thick with a caramel aftertaste. Yet, Jarrah honey is not as sweet as other types of honey due to its low glucose content and high fructose levels, which prevent it from being candied. Jarrah honey is a perfect option for those who are diabetic, but still desire some sweetness in their diet. Not to mention, the use of Jarrah honey as an alternative therapy to help combat infection is being studied diligently. As a result of its medicinal properties, low glucose level, and antimicrobial nature, Jarrah honey is widely know as the “healing honey” to consumers and apiarists, alike.