Psoriasis
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that results in a painful skin condition. It affects as many as 7.5 million Americans, according to the National Institutes of Health. The most common type of psoriasis is plaque psoriasis: raised, red patches with a silver or white buildup of dead skin cells. Plaques are painful, itchy and can become infected through scratching. Plaques can appear anywhere on the body, and can be quite large. There is no cure for psoriasis. Medications for treating psoriasis are expensive and may cause unpleasant side effects.
Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is made from the blossoms of the manuka bush, and is a product of New Zealand. Manuka honey is unique in that it contains healing properties beyond those of other types of honey. Because of the way honey is made, all honey contains some hydrogen peroxide. Biochemist Peter Molan has given the name UMF, or unique manuka factor, to the components in manuka honey that are antibacterial but not peroxide. When choosing manuka honey or manuka honey products, look for medical grade or active manuka honey with a UMF rating.
Benefits
Manuka honey can benefit people with psoriasis in many ways. When manuka honey is applied to skin plaques, the honey performs autolytic debridement, removing dead skin cells. The honey creates a moist, sterile healing environment, which promotes the growth of healthy new skin. The honey prevents dressings from becoming attached to healing plaques, so fragile new skin isn't damaged when dressings are changed. Any infection that may have developed is resolved, and further infections are prevented. Honey has anti-inflammatory properties and may help relieve pain as well. Using manuka honey produces no side effects other than minor discomfort upon initial application. If you're using topical treatments for psoriasis, talk with your doctor before you discontinue any treatment
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