Multifloral means that the bees visit many other floral sources and bushes as well as the manuka bush – but of course the Manuka bush will always be its favourite. It still has to be tested and found to contain ‘wholly or mainly’ nectar from the Manuka bush. This is done with the same naturally occurring marker test and pollen test that all Manuka honey is bound to.

Trust me when I say that this stuff works miracles. While it makes an amazing hand balm, you can also use it as an after-shower lotion, cuticle cream, hair conditioner, or for anything else that might need a little extra moisture this winter. My husband even has a jar of his own that he uses as a beard balm and sparingly as a hair gel. Looking for more hand cream inspiration? These homemade hand creams are perfect for overworked hands and extremely dry skin. They contain natural moisturizing factors that provide instant relief and protection to the skin barrier. Additionally, they are made with active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, zinc oxide, and vitamin E that help reduce dark spots and sun damage. Lactic Acid Hand Cream is a nourishing hand cream that contains active ingredients such as lactic acid and peppermint essential oil to help reduce dark spots and sun damage. The recipe requires ½ cup of shea butter, ¼ cup of sweet almond oil, 2 tablespoons of beeswax, 1 tablespoon of lactic acid, and 10 drops of peppermint essential oil. To make the hand cream, melt the shea butter, sweet almond oil, and beeswax in a double boiler until fully melted. Remove from heat and stir in the lactic acid and peppermint essential oil. Pour the mixture into a jar and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, whip the mixture using an electric mixer for a few minutes until it becomes fluffy. Store the hand cream in a cool, dry place.You can also use an emulsifying wax to hold everything together (see the second recipe below). Can I use other oils in place of the almond/olive oil? If you would like a creamier, more spreadable balm, add more oil. It’s a rather forgiving recipe, so feel free to play around with it until you find the texture that is right for you.

You can also find the manuka bush in Australia, but most high-quality manuka honey comes from New Zealand, including the brands: Manuka Doctor, Manuka Lab and Manuka Pharm. Let the melted oils cool as much as possible (think: barely lukewarm but still soft) before adding the honey. If you still see separation, you can always use an electric hand mixer to blend the oils with the honey, once the balm has completely cooled, then spoon it into your containers. Honey has been directly observed to reduce skin inflammation after being applied to wounds [ source ]—what better way to soothe chapped, red hands! Balances skin pH A note about choosing scents: This time of year, something wintery is always a good choice. Try adding eucalyptus essential oil or something simple and classic like lavender and vanilla . I would stay away from cinnamon because, while it smells super warm and festive, it can be rather irritating on the skin. To a lesser degree, peppermint falls into this category, too—a little goes a long way.

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The sugars in honey act as natural humectants [ source ], meaning they help increase moisture in the skin and reduce dryness, even after being washed off. High in nutrients and antioxidants