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- Dr Isaac Flitta
- Dec 4, 2025
- 7 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Beyond Skincare: Harnessing High-Grade Manuka Honey and Propolis for Persistent Skin Relief
Author: Sara Samavati, Director of Totika Skincare Solutions NZ and Dr Isaac Flitta, CEO of Totika Health NZ. 04 December 2025
Abstract:
Natural skincare and wellness solutions leveraging High-Grade Manuka Honey (800+ MGO) and New Zealand Bee Propolis offer significant therapeutic potential for managing persistent inflammatory skin conditions, including stress rashes and eczema. This article synthesises compelling customer experience with the established science demonstrating the potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and tissue-regenerative properties of these hive products. The evidence supports their role as a highly effective, natural alternative for restoring skin health and barrier function.
1. Introduction: The Need for Natural Therapeutic Solutions
The search for effective, gentle solutions for persistent skin inflammation, such as stress rashes, summer irritations, and eczema, often leads to harsh chemicals that further compromise the skin barrier. Totika Health New Zealand leverages potent, natural compounds from New Zealand beehives to formulate high-performance skincare. The core of this efficacy lies in two specific ingredients: high-grade Manuka Honey and Bee Propolis. Our commitment to verifiable quality (e.g., 800+ MGO Manuka Honey) ensures the therapeutic efficacy required for challenging skin conditions.
2. Scientific Basis: Manuka Honey and Propolis Efficacy
2.1 The Antimicrobial Power of High-Grade Manuka Honey
Manuka honey, particularly varieties with a high concentration of Methylglyoxal (MGO) at 800+ and above, possesses scientifically documented antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity [1, 2]
Antimicrobial Action: MGO is the key compound responsible for the honey's non-peroxide antiseptic properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of bacteria often associated with skin infections and secondary inflammation in rashes [1,3,4].
Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing: The honey creates a moist, acidic environment that promotes autolytic debridement (natural cleansing of the wound) and accelerates tissue regeneration [5, 6,7]. This makes it ideal for soothing and repairing the broken skin barrier characteristic of severe rashes and eczema flare-ups.
2.2 Bee Propolis: The Skin Protectant
Bee propolis, a resinous material collected by bees, is rich in flavonoids and other phenolic compounds [8,9].
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory: Propolis acts as a powerful antioxidant, combating oxidative stress in the skin, which is a key driver of chronic inflammation and premature ageing [10, 11, 12 ].
Barrier Support and Cell Renewal: Its properties support the skin's natural healing process and promote cellular regeneration, aiding in the structural repair of the damaged skin surface [13, 14, 15].
3. Evidence of Experience: Customer Success Stories
The following customer testimonials illustrate the real-world, rapid impact of Totika Health products on inflammatory skin conditions.
3.1 Case Study: Rapid Resolution of Persistent Stress Rash (Magic Serum)
A customer struggling with a stress/summer rash on her knee for two months found significant relief after only one week using the Magic Serum:
"Sara, I struggle with stress rashes, summer rashes and they always drive me crazy. I’ve had one on my knee for two months and was only getting worse. "
"I bought your magic serum last week at your product launch, took a photo of it before I started using it and THESE ARE THE RESULTS!!!!"
"MAGIC SERUM!!! Thank you so much! I’m so glad I bought my whole family some now haha"
The accompanying photographic evidence provided by the customer demonstrated a rapid transformation from severe inflammation and persistent irritation to a visibly healed, soothed state, validating the serum's powerful restorative capabilities.
3.2 Case Study: Management of Eczema and Sensitive Skin (Full Skincare Range)
A customer with chronically sensitive skin, Kay M., found the entire Totika Health range to be effective for both daily maintenance and flare-ups:
“I have very sensitive skin and find it hard to get effective products... I suffer from eczema and when I have a flare up I dab some eye cream on the area and it clears up in no time! I have some sun damage on my neck and I can see this becoming less and less as I continue to use these products.”
This testimonial highlights the gentle yet practical nature of Totika Health Skincare products, extending their therapeutic use beyond rashes to include chronic conditions like eczema and the repair of photo-damage.
3.3 A Brand You Can Trust and Quality You Can Verify
The overall trustworthiness of the Totika Skincare brand is supported by testimonials acknowledging the quality of the raw material, which underpins the efficacy of our skincare and the scientific knowledge of our formulator:
Mary A.: "This is new zealands premium beekeeping, the honey is easily the best in aotearoa nz... 1000% recommended."
Mathilde G.: "Amazing skin care products range for body and face specially if you are looking for ones with natural ingredients!"
4. Conclusion
Totika Health New Zealand’s skincare products, particularly the Magic Serum (800+ MGO Manuka and Propolis), offer a robust, science-backed, and naturally sourced solution for individuals with persistent, inflammatory skin issues. By combining the antimicrobial benefits of high-grade Manuka honey with the antioxidant protection of Bee Propolis, the formulations deliver rapid relief, support barrier repair, and provide a trusted alternative to conventional treatments.
Feature | Details |
Primary Ingredients | High-Grade Manuka Honey (800+ MGO) & New Zealand Bee Propolis |
Key Benefits | Antimicrobial, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, & Barrier Repair |
Target Conditions | Stress rashes, Eczema, Summer irritations, & Sensitive skin |
Scientific Action | MGO inhibits bacterial growth; Propolis promotes cellular regeneration |
Product Highlight | Totika Health Magic Serum (Rapid relief |
Origin | 100% New Zealand Sourced & Formulated |
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Manuka Honey treat rashes?
The high Methylglyoxal (MGO 800+) content in Totika Health formulations provides a natural antiseptic effect. It cleanses the affected area and creates a protective, moist environment that speeds up the healing of broken or irritated skin.
Why is Bee Propolis included in skincare? Propolis is "nature's glue." In skincare, it acts as a powerful antioxidant that protects the skin from environmental stress and supports the structural repair of the skin barrier, making it ideal for chronic conditions like eczema.
How long does it take to see results? While individual results vary, customer case studies have shown a significant visible reduction in redness and irritation from stress rashes in less than one week of using the Magic Serum.
Is this product suitable for eczema-prone skin? Yes. Because the formulations focus on restoring the skin barrier and reducing inflammation without harsh synthetic chemicals, they are specifically recommended for those suffering from eczema and chronic skin sensitivity.
References :
Feng, Y. (2023). Antibacterial Properties of Manuka Honey and the Role of Methylglyoxal. Journal of Student Research, Pathways to Science, 12(3), 5433–2519.
Happy Beekeeping NZ. (2024). Anti-inflammatory properties of NZ Manuka Honey
Johnston, M., McBride, M., Dahiya, D., Owusu-Apenten, R., & Nigam, P. S. (2018). Antibacterial activity of Manuka honey and its components: An overview. AIMS Microbiology, 4(4), 655–664
Mavric, E., Wittmann, S., Barth, G., & Henle, T. (2008). Identification and quantification of methylglyoxal as the dominant antibacterial constituent of Manuka honey. Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 52(4), 483–489
Tomblin, V., Ferguson, L., Han, D. Y., Murray, P., & Schlothauer, R. (2014). Potential pathway of anti-inflammatory effect by New Zealand honeys. International Journal of General Medicine, 7, 149–158
Gethin, G., & Cowman, S. (2005). Case series of use of Manuka honey in leg ulceration. International Wound Journal, 2(1), 10–15
ooper, R. A., Molan, P. C., & Harding, K. G. (2002). The use of honey in wound treatment. Journal of Wound Care, 11(7), 283–287.
Alsarayrah, N. A., Mohamed, R., & Omar, E. A. (2025). Stingless bee propolis: A comprehensive review of chemical constituents and health efficacy. Natural Products and Bioprospecting, 15(61)
Lim, J. R., Chua, L. S., & Dawood, D. A. S. (2023). Evaluating biological properties of stingless bee propolis. Foods, 12(12), 2290.
Zulhendri, F., Lesmana, R., Tandean, S., et al. (2022). Recent update on the anti-inflammatory activities of propolis. Molecules, 27(23), 8473
Ripari, N., & Sforcin, J. M. (2024). Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of propolis and geopropolis produced by stingless bees. In Stingless Bee Nest Cerumen and Propolis, Vol. 2 (pp. 183–192). Springer.
Fitoterapia Journal (2022). Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of stingless bee-derived propolis against acne.
Velho, J. C. M., França, T. A., Malagutti-Ferreira, M. J., et al. (2022). Use of propolis for skin wound healing: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Archives of Dermatological Research, 315, 943–955
Velho, J. C. M., França, T. A., Malagutti-Ferreira, M. J., et al. (2022). Use of propolis for skin wound healing: Systematic review and meta-analysis. ResearchGate (open access)
MDPI (2023). Anti-inflammatory and histological analysis of skin wound healing with propolis extract. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(14), 11831.
⚠️ Important Medical Disclosure & Safety Warning
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. While the content is researched and synthesised from peer-reviewed clinical studies (e.g., Shen et al., 2019; Al Omairi et al., 2020) and biological data, it is meant to help you understand the potential benefits of Mānuka honey and Bee Propolis as supportive care.
Mandatory Professional Consultation:
Consult Your Medical Team: Every patient’s health profile is unique. You must consult with your oncologist, GP, or qualified healthcare professional before incorporating Mānuka honey or Bee Propolis into your treatment regimen, especially during chemotherapy or radiation.
Dietary & Sugar Sensitivity: Mānuka honey is a natural sugar. Patients with diabetes or metabolic concerns must seek medical guidance to ensure usage aligns with their dietary requirements.
Allergy Alert: Bee products may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. If you have a known allergy to bees or propolis, or if you experience any adverse reactions (such as swelling or rash), discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
Quality Standard: The therapeutic benefits discussed are specific to Medical-Grade, independently IANZ lab-tested New Zealand Mānuka Honey. Commercial table honey may lack the required bioactive MGO levels and could contain contaminants unsafe for immunocompromised individuals.
This information is provided to empower patients with knowledge, not to replace the expert advice of your healthcare provider.
Have been using the Magic Serum on my chest area where I have a couple of dry sun damaged areas. Am surprised and delighted to see them disappearing, first losing the dryness and then going completely!