Alan R. Gaby, MD, wrote about hospitals using manuka honey to treat MRSA, a bacteria-resistant infection that can result in nightmarish open wounds that are extremely difficult to cure. Gaby noted the honey's "broad-spectrum antibacterial activity," and suggested further study. In 2001, researchers published findings in the European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, stating that manuka honey successfully treated a difficult surgical wound. Alive: Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition reported that manuka honey is "also beneficial for patients with gastric cancer as well as gastroesophageal reflux disease when taken internally."

On the Other: Traditional Health Care Practitioners May Be Wary

Many traditional healthcare practitioners have been blasé, if not dismissive, about the use of honey to manage wounds. Application also presents difficulties, as honey is sticky. Other honeys don't offer as much antibacterial properties as manuka. Dr. Gaby explains that this is, in part, because manuka retains these properties better when exposed to catalase, an enzyme found in most living organisms.

Bottom Line

Science seems to support the ancient tradition of using honey to promote the healing of wounds. Manuka honey, in particular, demonstrates strong antibacterial and slight antiseptic properties. Research has shown manuka to be useful both externally, as a topical application, and internally, to treat maladies of the digestive system.

Source:

Townsend Letter, "Topical Manuka Honey for MRSA Infection," Alan R. Gaby, July 2009.

European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases, "Manuka Honey Used to Heal a Recalcitrant Surgical Wound," October 2001.

Alive: Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition, "Manuka Honey," Graham Butler, September 2006.