Many people are battling sore throats and seasonal sniffles, but one unexpected remedy has been endorsed by the TV doctor
Rachael Davies, Laura Mckenna Audience Writer and Rachael Davis
14:03, 18 Oct 2025
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Manuka honey has been recognised for it’s “soothing texture and unique measurable antibacterial qualities” (Image: Manuka Doctor)
As the season changes, many people are finding themselves plagued by sore throats and sniffles. Finding effective relief can be tricky, but one surprising remedy comes recommended by TV doctor Hilary Jones.
While honey has long been known for its soothing effects on colds, Manuka honey offers added benefits that may help Brits feel better. Rich in Methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound renowned for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, it can help combat infections and harmful bacteria.
With cases of new Coronavirus strains, including the Stratus and Nimbus variants, on the rise, many are looking for ways to ease symptoms including the dreaded ‘razor blade’ sore throat. Dr Hilary notes that Manuka honey may help reduce the severity of these particularly troubling symptoms.
The TV doctor explained: “Current NHS Covid advice is to have a teaspoon of honey for a sore throat that feels like swallowing razor blades. I recommend Manuka honey as this particular honey has a soothing texture and unique measurable antibacterial qualities that can help calm sore throats and support a faster recovery with no side effects whatsoever except a lovely taste in the mouth.”
At Manuka Doctor, a brand with which Dr Hilary has been associated for nearly ten years, shoppers can buy Manuka honey products starting from £5.25. The Mirror reports that the brand offers a wide variety of products including squeezy honey and jars, as well as special bundles to help with symptoms of colds, flu and Covid.
Manuka Doctor has a wide range of Manuka honey products
Various
Manuka Doctor
Dr Hilary has worked with Manuka Honey for nearly a decade to promote it’s health benefits
Right now Manuka Doctor’s Immunity Bundle is available for £19.50, reduced from £27.50. The package includes Manuka honey lozenges, Immune Defence Spray, Immune Defence Syrup and High Strength Vitamin D Capsules.
There is also the 100 MGO Twin Pack Squeezy Honey that can be purchased for £11.70, marked down from £14.70. This offers customers two squeezy bottles of premium Manuka honey, known for its antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
Shoppers also have the choice to buy the Manuka Lozenges separately, with a triple pack now costing £10, down from £10.50. These comforting Manuka honey and lemon lozenges, which contain zinc, deliver relief for sore throats whilst providing a delightful taste.
Manuka honey contains a compound linked to antibacterial and antimicrobial effects(Image: Manuka Doctor)
Alternative brands also supply Manuka honey products that could offer relief. For example, Tesco stocks the Hilltop Premium Manuka Honey 250+ MGO 225g jar for £12, crafted entirely from genuine New Zealand Manuka.
For those seeking just a small taster, Holland and Barrett sell the Egmont Honey Manuka Honey MGO 40+ 40g jar for £2. It’s described as ‘a rich complex tasting honey’ with antibacterial qualities.
Manuka Doctor’s products have attracted a considerable following. One delighted customer said: “I took Manuka honey every day during my episode of Covid. My sore throat improved, as did my recovery.”
One shopper said the Manuka Doctor lozenges have a ‘lovely lemon taste with a proper honey centre'(Image: Manuka Doctor)
Another added: “Just love the strong taste, especially with Greek yoghurt. When I recently had COVID, I was having a tsp every day, very soothing for my throat.”
However, some customers have voiced their preference for traditional honey jars over the squeezy bottles. One shopper commented on the Manuka Doctor website: “I much prefer the jar, in the squeezy bottle it doesn’t seem like the same consistency, it might just be me.”
Another customer shared their opinion on the Manuka Lozenges: “Good size, quite lemony. Felt it didn’t need as much sugar. The manuka is sufficient.”
In addition, another lozenge fan remarked: “Lovely lemon taste with a proper honey centre. Soothes the throat.”