Active Manuka Honey has a natural antibiotic effect called UMF (unique manuka factor). Following we are answering your frequently asked questions about the UMF Rating, it's meaning and interpretation, so you may fully understand it. We educate our customers, so they know what strength of active manuka honey to purchase for their ailments for maximum health benefit, versus experiencing adverse reactions!
Is the higher the UMF Rating the better?
NO, not necessarily!
It seems like most websites promote the idea, that "the higher the UMF Rating, the better". We, at Manuka Honey USA have found this NOT be to true for the following reasons:
Internal Applications of Active Manuka Honey include: acid reflux, heartburn, esophagus ulcer, esophagitis, up-set stomach, stomach ulcer, h. pylori, gastritis, duodenal ulcer, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). For internal applications, we suggest using an active manuka honey with a UMF Rating between 16-19.
External Applications for Active Manuka Honey include: first degree burn, second degree burn, third degree burn, infectious wounds, ulcers, sores, decubitus sores, pressure sores, diabetic leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, amputation stump wounds, old war wounds that are still not healing, scars, surgical scars after hip replacement, cosmetic surgery scars after a tummy tuck, face lift or liposuction. For external wounds use an Active Manuka Honey with a UMF Rating of 10+, 12+, 14+, 16+, maximum strength UMF 18+, but no higher that 18+.
more at
http://www.manukahoneyusa.com/UMF-Rating.htm