Manuka honey is derived from the pollen of the Leptospermum scoparium, otherwise known as the manuka tree. Originating from New Zealand, though now available in other countries, Manuka honey has been known for centuries to have beneficial health properties. Manuka honey comes in two forms, and it is the Manuka honey with the Unique Manuka Factor that has been shown to have the greatest health benefits in both clinical and laboratory studies. Manuka honey aids in the health of the skin due to a number of its properties.
Wound Infections
Honey has an osmotic effect that is antibacterial; interestingly, this antibacterial effect is increased when the honey is diluted. This is due to the release of hydrogen peroxide. Though the hydrogen peroxide itself can cause tissue damage, this is reduced as the honey mops up and binds to the released iron that prevents the formation of free radicals. Manuka honey appears to contain an additional antibacterial property, Unique Manuka Factor, which appears more potent against a number of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. A randomized, controlled trial published in the June 2008 issue of "Journal of Wound Care" showed that Manuka honey is effective in reducing MRSA in wounds.
Wound Healing
Manuka honey is effective in improving wound healing in chronic or nonhealing wounds. A study published in the June 2008 issue of the "International Wound Journal" showed that Manuka honey dressings decrease wound size in chronic superficial ulcers, which had previously shown no change in size for a minimum of three weeks. This was shown by the change of pH in the wounds following the use of the honey. The moisturizing effect of honey and its capability to remove dead tissue also helps wound healing.
Anti-inflammatory
Manuka honey has also been shown to reduce the skin's inflammatory response. Studies in the laboratory and published in the March 2003 issue of the journal "Cytokine" showed that Manuka honey, like other honeys, stimulates the release of cytokines, which modulate the immune response and not only help with wound healing but may also improve scarring.
Eczema is a common skin disorder causing itching, dryness, redness and scaly skin. The itching can result in excessive scratching, resulting in broken, inflamed skin. A number of companies have produced products that contain Maunka honey which appear to help individuals with eczema. The honey is moisturizing and, because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, may reduce the symptoms of eczema.
Skin Cleansing and Care
Manuka honey, due to its antibacterial action and its pH, is often used in skin-cleansing products. Manuka honey's antibacterial properties have been found to be helpful in healing skin prone to acne. Further, its moisturizing properties prevent the skin from drying out, and its anti-inflammatory properties reduce the redness associated with acne infections. Manuka honey is also known for its vitamins and antioxidant properties, which may help with the prevention and reduction of skin wrinkles.
Cautions
As with all therapies, cautions should be taken and the use of products discussed with your medical practitioner. Cases of botulinism in babies that have eaten honey have been reported. It therefore remains a theoretical possibility that honey may result in infections. Scientists that are studying the therapeutic benefit of honey, however, state in "Bee World" in 2001 that there have been no infections in 470 cases where honey was used on open wounds.
References
- InterNurse.com: Bacteriological Changes in Sloughy Venous Leg Ulcers Treated With Manuka Honey or Hydrogel
- Wiley Online Library: The Impact of Manuka Honey Dressings on the Surface pH of Chronic Wounds
- ScienceDirect: Honey Stimulates Inflammatory Cytokine Production from Monocytes
- ResearchCommons: Why Honey Is Effective as a Medicine
Member Comments