FAQ

What is Total Activity?

Total Activity (TA)is like bacterial and fungal killing scale, the bigger the value, the more bacteria (and fungus) the honey can potentially kill. Values above TA10 deliver beneficial properties, while values of, or above TA30+ are exceptional and have great health benefits.

 

How is Total Activity Calculated?

Total Activity (TA) in honey is a critical measure of its overall antimicrobial potency. It encompasses two distinct components: Peroxide Activity (PA) and Non-Peroxide Activity (NPA).

  1. Peroxide Activity (PA):
    • PA is the natural defense mechanism that bees have honed over millions of years of evolution.
    • As honey ripens within the beehive, bees produce an enzyme called glucose oxidase (GO).
    • The magic happens when GO interacts with glucose and water, resulting in a chemical reaction.
    • During this process, unripened honey containing free water generates low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and gluconic acid.
    • These compounds act as a microbial deterrent, preventing harmful invaders from colonizing the honey.
    • PA remains active while the nectar ripens but ceases once the honey is fully formed and dehydrated.
    • Interestingly, subsequent preservation relies on the honey’s low water activity and natural acidity.
    • In most honeys, GO is depleted by the time the honey ripens, leaving no residual PA.
    • However, high PA honeys retain some residual GO, which can be reactivated when the honey is diluted with water (e.g., during consumption or topical application).
  2. High PA Honey:
    • Honeys rich in PA exhibit remarkable effectiveness against bacterial and fungal infections.
    • They may even combat certain parasites and viruses.
    • Importantly, PA is gentle on human tissue and the digestive system.
    • You can use high PA honey as an antiseptic drink (diluted or raw) or apply it topically.
    • Always consult your doctor before using high PA honey to treat wounds, especially if blood is present (as the enzyme catalase can impact effectiveness).
  3. Non-Peroxide Activity (NPA):
    • NPA encompasses all antimicrobial power derived from phytochemicals found in the nectar collected by bees from flowers.
    • Additionally, the natural acids in honey contribute to NPA.
    • Trees produce an array of phytochemicals to protect themselves from bacterial threats.

And fear not—the taste of honey remains unaffected by PA! So go ahead, savor the sweetness and appreciate the intricate science behind every spoonful.

 

Does Higher Total Activity honey have Anti-bacterial and Anti-Fungal benefits?

Experience the power of Higher Total Activity honey! Its unique properties offer remarkable antibacterial and antifungal benefits. When consumed or applied, it releases hydrogen peroxide, a potent agent against bacteria and fungi. Yet, it’s gentle on your body. Whether you’re seeking a health-boosting drink or a natural topical remedy, this honey is your answer. Unleash the healing potential of nature with Higher Total Activity honey!

 

What is Raw Honey?

Raw honey has almost the same composition as honey in a beehive. Raw honey is not heat treated (pasteurized) or ultra-filtered. Heating and filtering honey remove all the beneficial natural substances plus changes the chemistry of some of the sugars.

Extracting honey from the comb does remove some volatile aromatic compounds, so it you want to know the true taste of honey, try some honeycomb.

 

Why is your honey more expensive than most supermarket honey?

A significant portion of the honey found in supermarkets is not pure, raw, or authentically Australian. These products are frequently subjected to heat treatment or blending. The honey sold in supermarkets is often a combination of local and imported varieties, produced under industrial conditions. Furthermore, the honey may have been harvested in agricultural regions, raising the possibility of contamination from various chemicals or pesticides.

In contrast, our honey is pure, raw, natural, and uniquely sourced from Western Australia. We offer a limited supply of our honey varieties, owing to the meticulous and complex extraction processes employed in the forests and the subsequent testing. As a result of these factors, our honey possesses potent medicinal properties.

 

How Should I Use My Honey? 

Given that our honey is bioactive, it’s optimal to consume it in its most natural and raw form to preserve all its health benefits and properties. We recommend enjoying it straight from the spoon, adding it to cereal, fruit, or natural yogurt, incorporating it into marinades, smoothies, raw desserts, and dressings, or using it as a sweetener in beverages. Jarrah honey can also be utilized to alleviate sore throat symptoms*, as a supplement before and after strenuous activities, and for skin care*.

*It’s important to consult with your physician before introducing any new ingredients that may have an impact on your health. 

 

Can I Give Honey To My Baby?

It’s advised not to give honey to infants under the age of 12 months. Certain fungal spores can persist in honey, posing a minimal risk of infant botulism. These spores do not affect older children and adults as their digestive system is mature enough to eliminate them. If you have any concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider.