Abstract

Manuka honey is used medicinally as a wound-healing dressing and possesses antibacterial bioactivities. It also possesses immunomodulating properties, comprising both anti-inflammatory and immune stimulating activities. At present its active components have not been identified. Given the importance of manuka honey as a therapeutic, we performed high-resolution Fourier-transform mass spectrometry analysis, in order to gain an insight into its complex make-up, as well as examining other honeys derived from different floral origins and storage conditions. Our analyses show that manuka-derived honeys contain unique compounds, particularly in the high molecular weight range, compared to other honeys from other floral species. Storage conditions also directly impact on the molecular composition. An archetypal mother molecule specific to manuka honey was identified that may serve as a precursor store for free 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoic acid and provide a means of fingerprinting manuka honeys.

Highlights

► First detailed analysis of honey using Fourier-transform mass spectrometry.

► Despite similar mass range distributions, manuka honey contained a distinct array of compounds compared to clover honey.

► A manuka-enriched compound was identified that may serve as a store for 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoic acid.

► This component could provide a means of fingerprinting manuka honey.