Australian Manuka Honey Proven to Contain High Levels of Bioactive Leptosperin

 Recent research has found that Australian Manuka honey contains high levels of leptosperin, a bioactive compound contributing to the honey's unique antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Manuka honey is produced by honeybees foraging on nectar from the Leptospermum genus, which is native to both Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia has a greater diversity, with over 80 species of Leptospermum compared to New Zealand’s 2 endemic species, making it a significant region for Manuka honey production. 

 

Leptosperin’s Role in Manuka Honey 

Leptosperin, found in the nectar of Leptospermum flowers, is known for its bioactive properties and is often used as an authenticity marker for Manuka honey. This naturally occurring compound, which fluoresces at certain wavelengths, helps distinguish Manuka honey from other varieties. It is now clear that leptosperin is present not only in New Zealand honey but also in higher concentrations in Australian Manuka honey. For example, species like Leptospermum polygalifolium and L. whitei show significantly higher levels of leptosperin than L. scoparium, a New Zealand species. 

 

Manuka Honey’s Antibacterial Properties 

Manuka honey is known and recognised for its Non-Peroxide Antibacterial (NPA) activity, largely attributed to its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), which is formed from the precursor compound dihydroxyacetone (DHA) during honey maturation. The presence of leptosperin, in addition to MGO, boosts the therapeutic properties of Manuka honey, especially in wound healing and reducing inflammation. 

 

Implications of the Research 

The high amount of leptosperin in Australian Manuka honeys offers new opportunites for commercial growth and medicinal use. This research also shows the importance of leptosperin as a reliable marker for identifying genuine Manuka honey. This important finding will inspire further exploration of Australian species’ contributions to higher-quality honey production, strengthening Australia's role in the global Manuka honey market. 

This study highlights the growing potential of Australian Manuka honey, with its diverse Leptospermum species providing higher levels of leptosperin and other bioactive compounds. The research reinforces the value of Australian Manuka honey in both local and international markets. 

 

Gather By is positioned at the forefront of this exciting development, as we are working with propagating and growing Australia’s Manuka species which have been previously identified during Research and Development over the past 10 years.  

If you are interested in growing Manuka commercially as one of our network of Manuka honey forests, and would like to join our exclusive Manuka tree growers program, please apply here. 

 

 

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH 

The fluorescence of MM1, leptosperin in Australian and New Zealand Manuka Honeys 

The Antibacterial Activity of Australian Leptospermum Honey Correlates with Methylglyoxal Levels 

 

Therapeutic Manuka Honey: No Longer So Alternative