What’s the Best Time to Take Mānuka Honey?

The best time to take Mānuka honey is first thing in the morning on an empty stomach or just before bed. These times allow your body to absorb its unique antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties more effectively, giving you the greatest health benefit.

Whether you're using it to support digestion, immunity, energy, or sleep, timing your Mānuka honey routine can make a real difference.

Why Timing Matters: Mānuka Honey Isn’t Just Any Honey

Mānuka honey is special - it’s not your average drizzle-for-your-toast honey. Rich in methylglyoxal (MGO) and unique bioactive compounds, it’s revered for its natural antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory benefits. But to truly maximise its therapeutic effects, it helps to know when your body is most receptive.

Here’s a breakdown of the best times to take Mānuka honey based on your wellness goals.

Best Time to Take Mānuka Honey for General Wellness

Morning, before food:
Starting your day with 1-2 teaspoons of high-grade Mānuka honey (like MGO 350+ or above) on an empty stomach helps:

Kickstart your metabolism.
Soothe the digestive tract.
Support immune function.
Stabilise energy levels naturally.

Why before food? Taking it before meals allows the honey to coat your digestive system, protecting and nourishing the gut without interference from other foods.

Try this: Stir a spoonful into warm (not hot!) water with lemon for a gentle morning tonic.

Best Time to Take Mānuka Honey for Immunity Support

Morning and night:
If you’re feeling run-down or heading into cold and flu season, doubling up can help. Take Mānuka honey:

First thing in the morning to awaken immune cells.
Before bed to fight pathogens while your body rests.

Its natural antibacterial properties work around the clock, and MGO content supports your body’s immune defences passively and preventatively.

Best Time to Take Mānuka Honey for Digestive Health

Before meals or before bed:
Many people use Mānuka honey to manage acid reflux, bloating, or gut inflammation. In these cases:

Take 15–30 minutes before meals to coat and calm the digestive tract.
Take before bed if you're prone to night-time reflux or bloating.

Research shows Mānuka honey may inhibit harmful gut bacteria like H. pylori while promoting good gut flora.

Best Time to Take Mānuka Honey for Sore Throats or Cough

Any time symptoms flare-but especially before bed:
Mānuka’s soothing texture and antimicrobial action make it ideal when taken:

On its own off the spoon.
In warm herbal tea.
Right before lying down, to coat the throat and reduce irritation overnight.

Best Time to Take Mānuka Honey for Energy and Focus

Mid-morning or mid-afternoon:
Forget the sugar crash - Mānuka honey offers a clean, steady source of carbohydrates along with trace nutrients.

Perfect as a pre-workout or mid-day energy lift.
Unlike refined sugar, it supports blood sugar regulation.
Add it to smoothies or oats for sustainable energy.

Best Time to Take Mānuka Honey for Skin Health

Morning and/or night (internally or topically):
Mānuka honey helps fight oxidative stress from the inside out. To support skin:

Internally: Take daily for reduced inflammation and hormonal balance.
Topically: Apply a thin layer directly to blemishes or dry patches before bed.

Can You Take Mānuka Honey More Than Once a Day?

Yes, absolutely - many people take Mānuka honey 2–3 times a day, depending on their goals and dosage. Just be mindful of total sugar intake if you're also consuming other sweeteners.

A typical daily dose is 1–2 teaspoons, and even that small amount packs a potent punch thanks to its MGO content.

How to Take Mānuka Honey (for Best Absorption)

Raw, straight off the spoon is ideal.
Avoid mixing it into hot drinks (heat can degrade MGO). Let liquids cool slightly first.
Don’t combine with high-acid foods (like vinegar) if you're using it medicinally.
Let it sit in your mouth for a moment - it begins absorbing sublingually.

🙋Frequently Asked Questions

Should I take Mānuka honey on an empty stomach?

Yes, taking it on an empty stomach - especially in the morning helps maximise its effects on gut health and immune function.

Can I take Mānuka honey before bed?

Definitely. Before bed is one of the best times, especially for immune support, soothing coughs, or improving digestion overnight.

How many times a day can I take Mānuka honey?

Most people do well with 1–3 doses per day, depending on their needs. Listen to your body and adjust accordingly.

Is it safe to take Mānuka honey every day?

Yes, daily use is safe for most people and actually recommended for long-term wellness. However, those with diabetes or specific medical conditions should check with a healthcare provider first.

Can children take Mānuka honey?

Yes - for children over 1 year old. Never give honey (any kind) to infants under 12 months due to the risk of botulism.

Final Thoughts: Make Mānuka Honey Part of Your Daily Ritual

When you take Mānuka honey matters - and a little goes a long way. Whether you're targeting a specific health goal or just want to boost overall wellness, using Mānuka honey at the right time can amplify its benefits.

💛 Our tip: Set your Mānuka honey next to your toothbrush or kettle as a gentle reminder to take it first thing or last thing each day.