Manuka honey has garnered significant attention for its natural healing properties, prompting a closer look at its benefits for our canine companions. While all raw, unpasteurized honey possesses beneficial qualities, Manuka honey stands out due to its potent medicinal characteristics. Historically recognized for its therapeutic powers, honey is now being scientifically investigated for its potential to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Raw honey exhibits antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties, partly due to its natural hydrogen peroxide content. Notably, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved wound dressings infused with Manuka honey in 2015, integrating its healing capabilities into conventional medicine. Its efficacy has been observed even in treating challenging conditions like MRSA, an antibiotic-resistant bacterium where traditional treatments sometimes fall short.
The Unique Properties of Manuka Honey
The distinctiveness of Manuka honey can be attributed to the bees that pollinate the flowers of the Manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium), native to New Zealand and Australia. This honey is rich in powerful chemical components, including Methylglyoxal (MGO), Dihydroxyacetone (DHA), and Leptosperin. These compounds provide Manuka honey with more sustained antibiotic, antiviral, and antifungal effects compared to other honeys that rely solely on hydrogen peroxide. Scientific studies indicate that Manuka honey can effectively combat a wide spectrum of bacteria, including common pathogens like Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans.
Six Key Benefits of Manuka Honey for Dogs
1. First Aid for Minor Wounds
Manuka honey is a valuable asset for at-home treatment of minor cuts and abrasions in dogs. After cleaning the wound, apply pure Manuka honey directly and cover it with a bandage if necessary. For small wounds where a bandage isn’t feasible, ensure your dog doesn’t lick the honey off, allowing it time to work. To enhance healing, a paste made from equal parts Manuka honey and colostrum can be applied; colostrum’s growth factors further stimulate wound repair.
2. Combating Skin Issues
Skin diseases, often stemming from allergies or immune system problems, are common in dogs. Manuka honey offers topical relief from itching and inflammation, addressing issues like hot spots and redness caused by bacterial or yeast overgrowth. It can be applied as a spot treatment or taken orally to support the body’s natural regeneration of healthy skin cells.
3. Prebiotic Support for Gut Health
A healthy gut is fundamental to a dog’s overall well-being, with approximately 90% of the immune system originating there. Manuka honey acts as a natural prebiotic, fueling beneficial gut bacteria (probiotics) and helping to maintain a balanced microbial environment. This balance is crucial for supporting the immune system and promoting faster healing. Incorporating Manuka honey into your dog’s diet can contribute significantly to digestive health.
4. Enhanced Immune Support
By fostering a healthy gut microbiome, Manuka honey strengthens a dog’s immune system. Its antiviral properties also contribute to overall health. Stress can significantly weaken a dog’s immune defenses, increasing susceptibility to viral and bacterial infections like kennel cough or the dog flu. Oral administration of Manuka honey can serve as a preventive measure, boosting immunity before stressful events such as travel or exposure to new dogs.
5. Antioxidant Protection
Antioxidants play a vital role in protecting dogs from disease, cancer, and the effects of aging by repairing cellular damage caused by free radicals and environmental toxins. Manuka honey, rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids, demonstrates significant antioxidant effects, helping to counteract damage from pollution, pesticides, and electronic devices.
6. Supporting Oral Health
Bad breath in dogs can be a symptom of underlying health issues, including dental disease, which is often linked to gut imbalances. Manuka honey has shown effectiveness in controlling oral bacteria, a key factor in preventing gum inflammation (gingivitis) and subsequent dental problems. Research suggests that a UMF16+ grade of Manuka honey is particularly effective in managing oral bacteria.
Understanding Manuka Honey Grades
The therapeutic benefits of Manuka honey are closely linked to its Methylglyoxal (MGO) content. The Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) grading system quantifies this potency, with higher UMF ratings indicating stronger medicinal properties. For therapeutic use in dogs, a UMF10+ grade is generally recommended. For more severe infections, such as those involving superbugs or viruses, a higher UMF rating (e.g., UMF20+) may be necessary.
Recommended Dosage and Cautions
When administering Manuka honey internally, it’s advisable to start with half the recommended dose and gradually increase it to allow your dog to adjust.
- Dogs under 20 lbs: 1/2 teaspoon twice daily
- Dogs 20-60 lbs: 1 teaspoon twice daily
- Dogs over 60 lbs: 2 teaspoons twice daily
Due to its high sugar content, Manuka honey should not be given to diabetic dogs. Additionally, it is not recommended for puppies under one year of age, as their developing immune systems may not yet be equipped to handle the potent bacteria present in the honey. Always consult with a veterinarian, particularly a holistic vet, if you have concerns about Manuka honey’s suitability for your dog’s specific health needs.
