2013-06-18 14:26:55
Honey has been used for centuries as a natural home remedy for wound care such as cuts, scrapes and burns. Research over the years has confirmed its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to shorten healing time.(1,2,3) But not all honey is created equal! Science supports its use in wound care as long as it’s the right kind. Raw Manuka honey has emerged as the ‘cream of the crop’ due to its strong antibiotic effects. Medical grade Manuka honey, known as Medihoney, has been used in hospitals in Europe, Australia and Asia for years and has been the focus of recent research. Promising clinical evidence is emerging that showcases Medihoney and its potential ability to combat a serious antibiotic resistant bacteria; MRSA, which is on the rise in hospitals across the globe. Definitely something to consider adding to the first aid kit at home! If you do, ensure to get the high quality medical grade Manuka honey. For home care use on wounds that don’t require medical attention, apply Medihoney to the full surface of a clean wound, dress and wrap with gauze; change this three times per day or as needed. Simple, natural and effective!
References
1) Bardy J, Molassiotis A, Ryder WD, Mais K, Sykes A, Yap B, Lee L, Kaczmarski E, Slevin N. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised trial of active manuka honey and standard oral care for radiation-induced oral mucositis. Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2012 Apr;50(3):221-6.
2) Gethin G, Cowman S. Manuka honey vs. hydrogel–a prospective, open label, multicentre, randomised controlled trial to compare desloughing efficacy and healing outcomes in venous ulcers. J Clin Nurs. 2009 Feb;18(3):466-74.
3) Jull A, Walker N, Parag V, Molan P, Rodgers A; Honey as Adjuvant Leg Ulcer Therapy trial collaborators. Randomized clinical trial of honey-impregnated dressings for venous leg ulcers. Br J Surg. 2008 Feb;95(2):175-82.