As the seasons change, so does the way we live. But one thing that doesn’t change is the value of mānuka honey to help you make the most of the fun and sun through spring and summer. Sunshine, warmer temperatures, catching up with friends and family, beach, and BBQ also mean pollen, grass, eating too much and sunburn. Dietitians, nutritionists and their clients look for natural solutions to support immune health, digestion, skin health and reactions to the changing natural environment look to New Zealand’s powerful functional food, the best mānuka honey. UMF™-certified Mānuka honey stands out as a science-backed superfood, offering unique benefits that make it an essential addition to health-conscious diets during spring and summer.
- Seasonal Allergy Support
Spring and summer bring pollen surges, triggering allergies for many. Mānuka honey has been shown to help affect pathways to immune responses, potentially reducing inflammation and histamine reactions. Manuka honey benefits are many, but a few include its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties which may also soothe throat irritation caused by seasonal allergies.
- Gut Health & Digestion
Warmer months often mean dietary shifts, including lighter meals and fresh produce. Mānuka honey acts as a prebiotic, supporting healthy gut bacteria and aiding digestion. Research suggests it may help combat harmful bacteria like C. difficile, making it a valuable addition to gut-friendly diets in its raw honey form.
- Skin Protection & Healing
With increased sun exposure, skin health becomes a priority. Mānuka honey’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for wound healing, soothing sunburns, and reducing irritation. Its natural humectant properties also help retain moisture, keeping skin hydrated.
- Immune Boosting for Travel & Outdoor Activities
Spring and summer often mean travel, outdoor adventures, and social gatherings—all of which expose individuals to new environments and potential pathogens. Mānuka honey’s high UMF™ rating ensures potent antibacterial and antiviral properties, supporting immune resilience during seasonal transitions.
- Energy & Performance Support
For those engaging in summer sports, hiking, or outdoor fitness, Mānuka honey provides a natural energy boost. there are many benefits of mānuka honey and some include its slow-releasing carbohydrates which help sustain endurance, while its antioxidants aid in muscle recovery.
Why UMF™ Certification Matters
Not all Mānuka honey is the same. The UMF™ certification guarantees that it contains vital bioactives like Leptosperin, DHA, and MGO—ensuring authenticity, strength, and lasting effectiveness. While products boasting high mānuka honey MGO levels are popular, only UMF™ certification confirms the full spectrum of quality markers that define genuine, high-grade Mānuka honey.
What is mānuka honey good for?
Dietitians and nutritionists can recommend UMF Mānuka honey for:
🍯 Daily immune support – A spoonful in tea or smoothies.
🥗 Gut-friendly meals – Drizzled over yogurt or fresh fruit.
🌿 Skin care – Applied topically with olive oil or avocado for sunburn relief.
🏃 Pre-workout energy – A natural alternative to processed sugars.
As spring and summer bring new health challenges, UMF™-certified Mānuka honey remains a trusted, science-backed solution for seasonal wellness.
Follow these links to find out more about what is mānuka honey, health research or the UMF quality system.
Please contact the UMFHA team with any questions enquiry@umf.org.nz
