Medicinal Honeys from Oceania: An Updated Review on Their Bioactive Constituents and Health Applications

Medicinal honeys from Oceania have gained considerable attention due to their peculiar bioactive constituents and potential health applications. Apart from small molecules such as methylglyoxal and hydrogen peroxide, these honeys are rich in phenolic compounds, volatile terpenes, and other bioactive molecules, which collectively contribute to their antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Recent studies have highlighted the distinctive composition of Oceania honeys such as Manuka (Leptospermum scoparium), Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata), and Agastache (Agastache rugosa) from New Zealand and Australia, demonstrating variability in bioactivity depending on floral source, geographical origin, and processing methods. This review synthesizes the current knowledge on the chemical profiles of these honeys with a particular focus on bioactive compounds and distinctive markers, and evaluates their therapeutic potential. Emphasis is placed on the mechanisms underlying their bioactivities, as well as emerging clinical and preclinical evidence supporting their medicinal use. By consolidating recent findings, this work provides an updated perspective on the functional properties of Oceania honeys, underscoring their relevance as natural products with significant health-promoting potential.