Honey has been used to treat wounds since ancient times because of its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties.
Recently, the interest has zoned in on Manuka honey for wound healing because of its superior antibacterial activity, making it a helpful wound care resource. In fact, in 2007, the US FDA approved Manuka honey as an option for wound treatment.
Manuka’s wound healing properties
While most honey is useful in healing wounds and protects the body against damage caused by bacteria, Manuka honey has some exceptional qualities that make it superior for wound care. Some of these wound healing properties are:
Antibacterial effects
One of the key components in Manuka honey responsible for its powerful antibacterial effects is a high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO). The higher the concentration of MGO, the better is the antibacterial effect which is reflected by the Unique Manuka Factor Rating (UMF).
In most honey, the antibacterial activity is because of hydrogen peroxide. But much of it becomes inactivated when mixed with blood, serum, and wound tissues. However, in Manuka honey, the antibacterial activity comes from MGO which can withstand dilution and still maintain its powerful effects on the growth of bacteria.
Prevention of biofilm
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are commonly found in wound infections, which become difficult to treat and can lead to other complications, including death. Studies show that Manuka prevents the formation of biofilm (community of bacteria) by the bacteria and even destroys biofilm that has already been formed.
Strong anti-inflammatory
An inflammatory response is necessary for wound healing. However, prolonged inflammation can delay the healing process and can increase tissue damage. Sometimes this can lead to the chronic wounds that do not heal.
Research shows that Manuka has a strong anti-inflammation response associated with wound healing, which keeps inflammation in check and allows the wound to heal. This also helps ease pain associated with the wounds.
Regeneration of tissue
Several studies show Manuka honey can enhance wound healing and tissue regeneration, which is important for healthy healing. One 2021 study proved that Manuka can promote the growth of tissues in chronic non-healing wounds and suppress inflammation.
Rapid wound healing
Manuka honey activates cells known as fibroblasts, which protect the wound against cell damage and oxidative stress—factors that can affect the healing process of the wound. By improving the antioxidant response, Manuka helps control wound oxidative stress, which results in rapid healing.
The acidic pH of Manuka also helps speed up the healing process by lowering the pH of the wound and results in a smaller wound size.
How to use Manuka honey for wounds
Manuka honey may help with several types of wounds, including burns, ulcers, boils, nonhealing wounds, diabetic foot ulcers, and antibiotic-resistant wounds. However, Manuka honey used to treat wounds is medical-grade honey, which is sterilised and prepared as a dressing.
It is important to check with your doctor before applying any honey to your wounds, as the amount of honey and the way the dressing is applied can affect wound healing.
Some people may experience some allergic reaction to honey, such as dizziness, nausea, swelling, vomiting, troubled breathing, and stinging or burning at the site of the topical application.
If you experience any of the above reactions, clean the honey off the skin and seek medical attention immediately.
Nature's Gold therapeutic Manuka products
Our therapeutic range of products have been TGA listed (Therapeutic Goods Administration) and this means they have been tried and tested and they work. You can shop for Nature’s Gold Therapeutic Manuka Honey Products online.
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