Research & Development

Research is one of the cornerstones for Watson & Son. Our company invests heavily in projects and clinical trials around the world to validate the medical qualities of Manuka honey.

All types of honey have some therapeutic value, due primarily to a natural antibacterial property produced by hydrogen peroxide. Bees gather nectar from flowers and take it back to their hive where they add an enzyme called glucose oxidase.

When honey comes into contact with moisture in the body, the enzyme slowly releases the hydrogen peroxide at sufficient levels to kill bacteria but not damage tissue. However this antibacterial action known as peroxide activity is very easily destroyed by dilution, heat and light.

Through his research Dr Molan discovered that honey harvested from the Manuka tree contains a different antibacterial component which sets it apart from other honeys. This non peroxide activity is stable and doesn’t lose its potency or effectiveness when exposed to dilution, heat or light.

One of the research projects that Watson & Son has invested into, in conjunction with University of Waikato, is identifying the anti-inflammatory action of Manuka in wound healing. A test has now been developed allowing each batch of our honey to be gauged for its strength as an anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is one of the key factors that cause pain, prolonged healing and scarring.

For further information on some of the Manuka honey research being done worldwide, please see the following links:

The Waikato Honey Research Unit
http://bio.waikato.ac.nz/honey/

Manuka Honey vs Hydrogel: a Randomised Controlled Trial
http://www.internurse.com/cgi-bin/go.pl/library/abstract.html?uid=29583

Honey Up The Nose Treats Sinusitis
http://www.canada.com/topics/news/story.html?id=f515ea8d-a775-4b2b-81fa-1cc83009bb2e