When I was invited along to be a model for the ‘Touch Therapy for Cancer Care’ at the Bronwyn Conroy International Beauty School, I was introduced to Manuka Honey by Christine Clinton, founder of the Christine Clinton Touch Therapy for Cancer Care. Christine, a skin care specialist, educator and entrepreneur in the spa industry, as part of the ‘Touch Therapy for Cancer Care’ programme, instructed the eager beauty specialists how to apply a nourishing hair and face mask using Manuka Honey. They began by applying the viscous substance at my ears, spreading it across my scalp. Then using their hands, warmed using luke warm water they massaged the honey into my scalp and downwards to my face. It was such a relaxing experience. The honey became smoother with the addition of the water from the hands, creating a gliding effect which made the massage all that more tranquilizing. After about twenty minutes, they removed the nutritious mask using damp towels, patting my scalp dry.
I had heard whispers in the wind about the benefits of Manuka Honey but never had first-hand experience of it. I received my scalp and face treatment on the Thursday, went to Budapest for the weekend and when I came back my family and even myself couldn’t believe how much my hair had grown. The pictures below show my hair a couple of hours before the treatment Thursday and then my hair Tuesday, five days after treatment. It may seem like a small growth but for someone who practically measures her hair with a ruler everyday it was massive progress.
Manuka Honey originates from bees that pollinate the Manuka bush, native to New Zealand. It has been used for centuries; from treating sore throats to digestive complaints its medicinal properties cannot be denied. Manuka honey contains four times the amount of nutrients found in traditional honey. Nutrients found in Manuka Honey includes amino acids, B vitamins, iron, copper, magnesium, just to name a few. What makes Manuka Honey extra special is the substantially high level of enzymes present compared to other honeys, producing an antibacterial effect. Enzymes including hydrogen peroxide, methylglyoxal and dihydroxyacetone give Manuka Honey the ‘Unique Manuka Factor’. This globally universal standard identifies the antibacterial capabilities of Manuka, guaranteeing the honey in question is of a medicinal nature and not just high fructose corn syrup. It has been around for centuries but it is only recently that studies are showing the true benefits of Manuka, which can provide natural remedies for ailments such as sore throats, acid reflux, acne, wounds, ulcers and IBD. Its nutrient dense form provides a wholesome treatment for the skin and scalp.
The application of honey gives moisture and nourishment to the scalp, diminishing the resistance of the skin against the extending follicle. The hair follicles are allowed to grow without impedance, meaning growth time is quicker. The nutrients also allow the hair to grow back full of health. I look at my hair loss as a second chance. I mean not everyone gets another chance to grow their hair again and I want to grow the healthiest hair possible. I’m sure if we all had the chance we wouldn’t have destroyed our mops with dye from a young age. I lash the honey on at least twice a week. I have a mask on as I write this, feeling my follicles twinkle with delight as it captures the goodness. It’s a clear substance when applied so no one would even know it is on your scalp as you roam around the house.
Regarding the UMF, is it not considered medicinally beneficial under 10+. 10-15+ contains useful antibacterial properties, whereas 16+ is seen as exceptional. You won’t find it in your local Tesco or Dunnes unfortunately, regardless of how they promote it. You will only get legitimate Manuka in your local health store, where you will UMF rating from 5+ all the way up to 20+. Christine and Jacqui Boyle, a rep for Christine here in Ireland, informed me that 20+ is key to achieve hair growth. Alternatively if you didn’t particularly want to put it on yourself you could go to one of Christine’s qualified Touch Therapy for Cancer Care clients, in order to get a little pampered. You can contact on Jacqui Boyle on 0868242634 to gather more information about Christine Clinton Cancer Care.