Manuka Honey is special because its antimicrobial properties come from non-peroxide activity. Research shows this activity, which is unique to Manuka Honey, has "significant antibacterial effects" [1].
The now world famous Manuka Honey is only made by bees who collect nectar from the Manuka bush, a wild shrub which grows widely across New Zealand but flowers for only a few weeks a year.
Manuka Honey has "antibacterial and antioxidant properties" which have been linked with a range of wellbeing benefits according to scientific journals [2].
Parts of the Manuka bush were used for centuries by New Zealand's native Maoris as a herbal medicine to treat conditions like fevers and dandruff [3]. While honey has been used widely since ancient times to help wounds heal [1], it was not until European settlers introduced the European honey bee in the first half of the 19th century that both Maori and settlers started using the honey to help with wellbeing.
You can read more about what's special about Mānuka Honey here.