Researchers at Waikato University announce their discovery of a compound in manuka tree nectar which converts to the antibacterial ingredient that active manuka honey is known for.
"We have known for some time that the unique antibacterial activity of manuka honey is associated with the presence of methylglyoxal," says Associate Professor Merilyn Manley-Harris. "But until now the origin of methylglyoxal was not known."
The researchers say there is the potential for active manuka trees to be mass-planted and the resulting honey harvested.
