Manuka honey is produced by European bees that forage on the New Zealand and Australian tea tree ( Leptospermum scoparium ), a plant that grows wild in both New Zealand and southeastern Australia. Historically, indigenous populations of both countries used this honey on wounds and to improve digestive symptoms . It can also be sourced from Leptospermum ericoides (white tea tree) and L. polygalifolium (tantoon). As a species, Leptospermum probably originated in Tasmania where there are 85 known species, collectively known as tea tree or jelly bush. The name tea tree is said to have been coined by Captain Cook, who reportedly brewed tea from the leaves. Jelly bush is named for the jelly-like texture of the honey itself. While New Zealand owns the trademark name Manuka, a similar honey is produced in Australia under the names tea tree honey, jelly bush honey or Leptospermum honey. The Leptospermum plants […]