Buckwheat vs. Manuka Honey – Which Is Better for Wellness?
Buckwheat Honey vs. Manuka: A Superfood Showdown with a Banya Twist
At Banya No.1 – Hoxton, we’re always exploring natural ways to enhance your wellness journey — and one simple addition makes a powerful impact: buckwheat honey. Whether you’re recovering from the steam room, enjoying a tea ritual, or looking for nourishment to take home, this antioxidant-rich superfood is a perfect match for your banya experience.
You’ve probably heard of Manuka honey — the glossy, high-priced option promising everything from antibacterial magic to immune support. But what if we told you that the quiet, dark jar of buckwheat honey offers even greater everyday benefits?
Let’s take a closer look.
Manuka Honey: A Therapeutic Powerhouse
Manuka honey is produced by bees that pollinate the Manuka bush in New Zealand. It’s prized for its high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), giving it powerful antibacterial effects beyond those of standard honey.
What makes Manuka special:
- Supports wound healing and reduces infections
- Helps ease sore throats and mouth ulcers
- May assist with antibiotic-resistant bacteria
- Often used in topical applications
However, despite its targeted healing abilities, Manuka honey is still 80% sugar, and unless it’s UMF-certified, you may not get the health benefits you’re paying for.
Buckwheat Honey: The Nutrient-Dense Underdog
Buckwheat honey, harvested from bees that pollinate buckwheat flowers, is known for its dark colour, malty flavour, and dense nutritional profile.
Unlike trendy Manuka, it doesn’t come with flashy marketing — but it outperforms in many everyday wellness categories.
Why Buckwheat Honey Stands Out:
- Contains more antioxidants than Manuka (according to PubMed studies)
- Naturally rich in iron, zinc, manganese, and trace minerals
- Offers antibacterial support and mild immune boosting
- Used for cough relief, especially in children over 1
- Contains amino acids and trace protein
It’s not just for colds and sore throats — buckwheat honey is a daily wellness ally, helping the body manage oxidative stress and recover naturally.
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Buckwheat Honey | Manuka Honey |
| Antibacterial Power | ✅ Strong (oxidative) | ✅ Strong (MGO) |
| Antioxidant Levels | ✅ Higher | Moderate |
| Mineral Content | ✅ High in Fe, Zn, Mn | Low |
| Nutrient Density | ✅ Contains protein, phenols | Mostly sugar |
| Flavour Profile | Rich, malty, bold | Earthy, herbal |
| Best Use | Daily health, immune support | Targeted healing |
The Final Verdict
If you’re looking for occasional medicinal support, Manuka still holds value — especially for healing wounds or calming a sore throat.
But for everyday wellness, buckwheat honey is the real winner. Rich in antioxidants, trace nutrients, and bold flavour, it’s a smart, natural addition to your routine — especially after the intense heat–cool–rest cycle of a banya session.
Try Buckwheat Honey at Banya No.1 – Hoxton
We proudly serve organic buckwheat honey as part of your banya experience — and now, you can also take a jar home – £14/300gr. Whether you stir it into your tea post-Parenie or stock your pantry with wellness staples, this natural superfood is a delicious way to keep your body supported.
Ask at reception to try it or purchase a jar to take away.
Sources:
- PubMed: Comparative Analysis of Manuka and Buckwheat Honey
- Healthline: Manuka Honey Uses and Benefits
- BBC Good Food: Is Manuka Honey Worth It?
- Honey Critique: Buckwheat vs. Manuka Honey
