Q: Is Comvita the leading Manuka Honey company?

Comvita is New Zealand's leading producer of Manuka Honey.

Q: What does UMF™ mean?

The UMF™ (Unique Manuka Factor) trademark was established by the Unique Manuka Factor™ Honey Association (UMFHA). The UMF™ grading system appraises natural markers found in Manuka honey, and assures purity & quality. This is compliant with the recent interim labelling guidelines published by the Ministry for Primary Industries. Not all Manuka Honeys are UMF™ rated – only those which have been independently tested and verified by UMFHA are given a UMF™ rating. For more information visit www.umf.org.nz

Q: What is the meaning of UMF™ 5+, UMF™ 10+, and UMF™ 15+?

The UMF™ grading system has two components which are expressed on any UMF™ licenced honey product: 1. The label claim that it is Manuka, 2. The number - this represents three chemical markers that indicate the content of this honey to ensure purity and quality. This includes the key chemical markers DHA, MGO, and Leptosperin. For more information visit http://www.umf.org.nz/grading-system

Q: Why is Manuka Honey more expensive than other honeys?

Manuka Honey is unique to New Zealand and to obtain pure Manuka Honey is a specialized task for beekeepers. Manuka Honey is more difficult to extract and has a limited harvest period of 2-6 weeks as it is only collected at certain times of the year. The unique properties of Manuka Honey are well understood by consumers around the world, thereby creating a continually high level of demand.

Q: Why does honey’s color and texture vary?

Honey is a natural product, influenced by seasonal and regional conditions. Some areas produce paler honey than others. Like a good wine, honey will grow in flavor and darken with age.

Q: What is added to Comvita honey?

Comvita honeys are pure with no additives.

Q: Diabetes – can I take your honey?

Nectar from plants is the sugar source for honey. It is collected by bees, stored and ripened in the hive. The resulting honey is rich in natural fructose and glucose. Diabetics should consult their healthcare professional before consuming honey.

Q: Can Manuka Honey be taken during pregnancy?

Manuka Honey has been taken by pregnant women for many years with no reported problems as a result of its ingestion.

Q: Can children take Manuka Honey?

We do not recommend that honey be given to children under the age of one.

Q: Can I use a jar of Manuka Honey on my wound?

No. Manuka Honey that is purchased in a jar is for oral/internal use only. Comvita® recommends sterile medical grade honey for use on wounds.

Olive Leaf FAQ

Q: What is the difference between Olive Leaf Complex and Olive Leaf Extract?

It's the same product. We just renamed it to be in line with our sister companies around the world

Q: Can I take Olive Leaf Extract with other medications?

We advise you to consult your healthcare professional.

Q: Can I take Olive Leaf Extract while pregnant or breastfeeding?

We advise you to consult your healthcare practitioner.

Q: What dosage of Olive Leaf Extract should I give to my children?

Comvita has developed Children’s Olive Leaf Complex to appeal to younger taste buds. Children’s Olive Leaf Complex can be given to children over the age of 2 years at a rate of 5mL (1 teaspoonful) twice daily. Children over two years of age may be given the original or peppermint flavoured Olive Leaf Complex at 2.5mL (half teaspoonful) 2 to 3 times a day with food. Take up to 7.5mL daily.

Q: Why do you advise drinking plenty of water while taking Olive Leaf Complex?

When you start taking Olive Leaf it begins to cleanse your body so you may occasionally feel one or more of these symptoms: mild headaches, rashes, fatigue, diarrhoea, muscle and joint pain. This is known as the "Herxheimer Effect" or healing effect.

Q: Are Olive Leaf products Halal? Kosher?

Our OLE original and OLE peppermint flavours have been certified Halal and Kosher.

Q: Are Olive Leaf products suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

If you are a vegan or vegetarian we recommend that you use the liquid Olive Leaf Extract range which is made from 100% plant derived products. Our current Olive Leaf Extract capsule products contain a gelatin coating which is not suitable for vegetarians and vegans.