Mad Honey Poisoning
Am J Emerg Med, 2006 Sep;24(5):595-8
Grayanotoxin intoxication, which is mostly seen in the eastern Black Sea region of Turkey, stems from the "mad honey" made by bees from the rhododendron plant flowers. In low doses, this causes dizziness, hypotension, and bradycardia, and in high doses, impaired consciousness, seizures, and atrioventricular block (AVB). This case study was designed as a series of cases of patients (6 women, 2 men) aged between 35 and 75 years…
To date, 58 such cases have been reported, but we saw 8 patients within 2005. It is commonly seen in the east of the Black Sea region, although cases may occur from all over the eastern Black Sea region of Turkey. So far, no cases of death have been reported, although grayanotoxin causes adverse effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems and is therefore of considerable importance.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Bee-Collected Pollen Recommended for Allergies
Allergy Sufferers Look to Nontraditional Relief
By Robin Clayton, The News Leader (USA), 8/31/2006
Bessie Davis remembers taking her daughter Davilyn Artis to the doctor constantly when she was a little girl.
“She had allergies really bad,” said Davis. “Her eyes would get so much mucus in them that they would close shut.”
Davis doesn’t remember how long it’s been, but after years of taking prescription medication for her allergies, Artis finally gave another solution a try. Despite available prescription and over-the-counter allergy medications such as Allegra and Claritin, many allergy sufferers, like Artis, are turning to nontraditional treatment methods
“She started with taking bee pollen tablets,” said Davis Tuesday afternoon as she picked up some allergy relief products for her daughter at Healthabit Natural Foods in Kinston. “She takes those and she doesn’t have a problem all summer.”…
By Robin Clayton, The News Leader (USA), 8/31/2006
Bessie Davis remembers taking her daughter Davilyn Artis to the doctor constantly when she was a little girl.
“She had allergies really bad,” said Davis. “Her eyes would get so much mucus in them that they would close shut.”
Davis doesn’t remember how long it’s been, but after years of taking prescription medication for her allergies, Artis finally gave another solution a try. Despite available prescription and over-the-counter allergy medications such as Allegra and Claritin, many allergy sufferers, like Artis, are turning to nontraditional treatment methods
“She started with taking bee pollen tablets,” said Davis Tuesday afternoon as she picked up some allergy relief products for her daughter at Healthabit Natural Foods in Kinston. “She takes those and she doesn’t have a problem all summer.”…
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Heart Medications May Increase Risk in Bee Venom Therapy
Getting Into the Sting of Things
Harvard Health Letter, July 1, 2006
Summary: Stinging insects can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Those who take certain heart or blood pressure medications may be at greater risk, and may want to consider a medication switch.
Harvard Health Letter, July 1, 2006
Summary: Stinging insects can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Those who take certain heart or blood pressure medications may be at greater risk, and may want to consider a medication switch.
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
What is ‘Sugar Free’ Honey?
Sugar Free Honey Project for Himachal
By Indo Asian News Service, 8/28/2006
Shimla, Aug 28 (IANS) In an effort to motivate beekeepers to produce sugar-free herbal honey, the government has introduced a new eco-friendly beekeeping system in Himachal Pradesh.
The National Horticulture Board (NHB) has sent 5,000 beekeeping boxes along with the bees to the state, to be distributed in 10 of 12 districts in the next year, an official said.
These bees will be fed on the stevia herbal plant leaves that are said to produce sugar free honey. The plant is also considered a natural sweetener and attracts bees.
These leaves will come in handy both during the dry winter countryside and the rainy season when the bees are unable to fly out in search of food.
In the lean season, the hungry bees are normally fed sugar by beekeepers, resulting in production of poor quality honey. Stevia will change this practice…
Send comments to: editor@apitherapynews.com
By Indo Asian News Service, 8/28/2006
Shimla, Aug 28 (IANS) In an effort to motivate beekeepers to produce sugar-free herbal honey, the government has introduced a new eco-friendly beekeeping system in Himachal Pradesh.
The National Horticulture Board (NHB) has sent 5,000 beekeeping boxes along with the bees to the state, to be distributed in 10 of 12 districts in the next year, an official said.
These bees will be fed on the stevia herbal plant leaves that are said to produce sugar free honey. The plant is also considered a natural sweetener and attracts bees.
These leaves will come in handy both during the dry winter countryside and the rainy season when the bees are unable to fly out in search of food.
In the lean season, the hungry bees are normally fed sugar by beekeepers, resulting in production of poor quality honey. Stevia will change this practice…
Send comments to: editor@apitherapynews.com
Apitherapy Conference in Utah Sept. 21-24
By Lois M. Collins, Deseret Morning News (USA), 8/28/2006
Sept. 21-24
Anyone interested in learning about the medicinal use of honeybee products is invited to the Charles Mraz Apitherapy Course & Conference (CMACC) in Salt Lake City.
Sponsored by the American Apitherapy Society, which is a nonprofit membership organization established for the purpose of advancing the investigation of apitherapy and has in past years attracted participants from around North America and the world.
This year, for the first time, AAS is offering the option of attending either the introductory apitherapy training from Thursday evening through Saturday morning or an advanced conference from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon. Participants may also opt to attend both.
Apitherapy is the use of beehive products — such as bee venom, bee-collected pollen, royal jelly, propolis, beeswax and honey — for health and to treat various conditions.
AAS makes no claims about the safety or efficacy of honey-bee products and does not endorse any specific type of apitherapy.
For more information about the course, go to www.apitherapy.org.
Sept. 21-24
Anyone interested in learning about the medicinal use of honeybee products is invited to the Charles Mraz Apitherapy Course & Conference (CMACC) in Salt Lake City.
Sponsored by the American Apitherapy Society, which is a nonprofit membership organization established for the purpose of advancing the investigation of apitherapy and has in past years attracted participants from around North America and the world.
This year, for the first time, AAS is offering the option of attending either the introductory apitherapy training from Thursday evening through Saturday morning or an advanced conference from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon. Participants may also opt to attend both.
Apitherapy is the use of beehive products — such as bee venom, bee-collected pollen, royal jelly, propolis, beeswax and honey — for health and to treat various conditions.
AAS makes no claims about the safety or efficacy of honey-bee products and does not endorse any specific type of apitherapy.
For more information about the course, go to www.apitherapy.org.
Monday, August 28, 2006
Conference on the Medicinal Uses of Honey Meets in Malaysia
Honey Draws 100 International Researchers to Kota Baharu
Bernama (Malaysia), 8/27/2006
KOTA BAHARU, Aug 27 (Bernama) -- About 100 medical specialists and researchers have converged here for the First International Conference on the Medicinal Uses of Honey.
They are from Egypt, Iran, Algeria, Canada, Taiwan, Britain, Pakistan, Australia, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, the United States, Thailand and Malaysia.
The three-day conference started Saturday and was opened by Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed.
Mustapa told reporters later that a preliminary study by the group showed that honey could be used in the treatment of mouth and intestinal ulcers...
Bernama (Malaysia), 8/27/2006
KOTA BAHARU, Aug 27 (Bernama) -- About 100 medical specialists and researchers have converged here for the First International Conference on the Medicinal Uses of Honey.
They are from Egypt, Iran, Algeria, Canada, Taiwan, Britain, Pakistan, Australia, India, New Zealand, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, the United States, Thailand and Malaysia.
The three-day conference started Saturday and was opened by Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapa Mohamed.
Mustapa told reporters later that a preliminary study by the group showed that honey could be used in the treatment of mouth and intestinal ulcers...
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Honey May Help Relieve Postoperative Pain
Can Postoperative Pains Following Tonsillectomy Be Relieved By Honey? A Prospective, Randomized, Placebo Controlled Preliminary Study
International Journal of Pediatroc Otorhinolaryngoly, 2006 Aug 14
OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of acetaminophen versus acetaminophen-plus-honey following pediatric tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy…
CONCLUSION: Oral administration of honey following pediatric tonsillectomy may relieve postoperative pain and may decrease the need for analgesics. Prospective, randomized, and double-blind studies should further be conducted in order to confirm the data obtained in this study and develop a standard protocol to achieve maximum clinical efficiency.
International Journal of Pediatroc Otorhinolaryngoly, 2006 Aug 14
OBJECTIVE: To compare the effectiveness of acetaminophen versus acetaminophen-plus-honey following pediatric tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy…
CONCLUSION: Oral administration of honey following pediatric tonsillectomy may relieve postoperative pain and may decrease the need for analgesics. Prospective, randomized, and double-blind studies should further be conducted in order to confirm the data obtained in this study and develop a standard protocol to achieve maximum clinical efficiency.
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Propolis Component Has Antitumor Activity
Reports From Japan and Croatia Add New Data to Cancer Treatment Research
Lab Business Week, 8/27/2006
Data on cancer treatment are outlined in reports from Japan and Croatia…
Study 3: Administration of propolis and its polyphenolic compounds might delay tumor formation and growth.
"Many dietary constituents are chemopreventive in animal models, and experiments with cultured cells are revealing various potential mechanisms of action. Compounds classified as blocking agents can prevent, or greatly reduce, initiation of carcinogenesis, or suppressing agents can act on cell proliferation," investigators in Croatia reported.
"Caffeic acid (CA) and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), members of the polyphenolic compounds, are present in high concentrations in medicinal plants and propolis, a natural beehive product. A water-soluble extract of propolis (WSDP) and two components of propolis, CA and CAPE were investigated for direct antitumor activity in vivo and in vitro," explained N. Orsoilc and colleagues, University of Zagreb.
"The local presence of CA and CAPE in the tissue caused a significant delay in tumor formation and increased life span 29.30 to 51.73%, respectively. CA and CAPE, but not WSDP, significantly suppressed human HeLa cervical carcinoma cell proliferation in vitro."
The researchers concluded, "Based on these results, we postulate that the antitumor activity of polyphenolic compounds includes direct cytotoxic effects on tumor cells."
Orsoilc and colleagues published their study in Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin (Effects of local administration of propolis and its polyphenolic compounds on tumor formation and growth. Biol Pharm Bull, 2005;28(10):1928-1933).
For additional information, contact N. Orsoilc, University of Zagreb, Faculty Science, Dept. Animal Physiol, Rooseveltov Trg 6, Zagreb 10000, Croatia.
Lab Business Week, 8/27/2006
Data on cancer treatment are outlined in reports from Japan and Croatia…
Study 3: Administration of propolis and its polyphenolic compounds might delay tumor formation and growth.
"Many dietary constituents are chemopreventive in animal models, and experiments with cultured cells are revealing various potential mechanisms of action. Compounds classified as blocking agents can prevent, or greatly reduce, initiation of carcinogenesis, or suppressing agents can act on cell proliferation," investigators in Croatia reported.
"Caffeic acid (CA) and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), members of the polyphenolic compounds, are present in high concentrations in medicinal plants and propolis, a natural beehive product. A water-soluble extract of propolis (WSDP) and two components of propolis, CA and CAPE were investigated for direct antitumor activity in vivo and in vitro," explained N. Orsoilc and colleagues, University of Zagreb.
"The local presence of CA and CAPE in the tissue caused a significant delay in tumor formation and increased life span 29.30 to 51.73%, respectively. CA and CAPE, but not WSDP, significantly suppressed human HeLa cervical carcinoma cell proliferation in vitro."
The researchers concluded, "Based on these results, we postulate that the antitumor activity of polyphenolic compounds includes direct cytotoxic effects on tumor cells."
Orsoilc and colleagues published their study in Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin (Effects of local administration of propolis and its polyphenolic compounds on tumor formation and growth. Biol Pharm Bull, 2005;28(10):1928-1933).
For additional information, contact N. Orsoilc, University of Zagreb, Faculty Science, Dept. Animal Physiol, Rooseveltov Trg 6, Zagreb 10000, Croatia.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Propolis Active Against Anaerobic Bacteria
In Vitro Activity of Bulgarian Propolis Against 94 Clinical Isolates af Anaerobic Bacteria
Anaerobe, 2006 Aug 17
The aim was to evaluate the effect of 30% ethanolic extract of Bulgarian propolis on 94 clinical anaerobic strains…
Conclusion: Bulgarian propolis was active against most anaerobic strains of different genera. In addition to oral pathogens, an activity of propolis against Clostridium, Bacteroides and Propionibacterium species was observed. The results could motivate a higher medical interest and further trials for evaluating the use of bee glue for prophylaxis or treatment of some anaerobic infections such as oral, skin and wound diseases.
Anaerobe, 2006 Aug 17
The aim was to evaluate the effect of 30% ethanolic extract of Bulgarian propolis on 94 clinical anaerobic strains…
Conclusion: Bulgarian propolis was active against most anaerobic strains of different genera. In addition to oral pathogens, an activity of propolis against Clostridium, Bacteroides and Propionibacterium species was observed. The results could motivate a higher medical interest and further trials for evaluating the use of bee glue for prophylaxis or treatment of some anaerobic infections such as oral, skin and wound diseases.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Utah Conference to Focus on Medicinal Uses of Bee Products
Interest in ‘apitherapy’ as an alternative treatment growing worldwide
(AUGUST 24, 2006) – From September 21-24, 2006, those interested in learning more about the medicinal use of honey bee products will gather in Salt Lake City for the Charles Mraz Apitherapy Course & Conference (CMACC).
The four-day event is sponsored by the American Apitherapy Society (AAS), a nonprofit membership organization established for the purpose of advancing the investigation of apitherapy, and has in past years attracted participants from around North America and the world. Utah is known as “the Beehive State” and the state insect is the honey bee.
(NOTE: AAS President Dr. Andrew Kochan was recently interviewed on CBS Sunday Morning.)
This year, for the first time ever, AAS is offering the option of attending either the introductory apitherapy training from Thursday evening through Saturday morning, or an advanced conference from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon that covers trends in apitherapy around the world. Participants may also opt to attend both.
Apitherapy is the use of bee hive products such as bee venom, bee-collected pollen, royal jelly, propolis, beeswax, and honey to maintain good health and in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions. Propolis, known as nature's antibiotic, is a resinous substance collected by bees from plants and trees and is used to coat the inside of the bee hive and the honeycomb cells with an antiseptic layer. Royal jelly, heralded for its rejuvenating properties, is a substance produced by young worker bees and fed to queens.
Hive products have been used medicinally for thousands of years in folk medicine and are now gaining popularity worldwide as medical research validates their effectiveness. Bee venom has historically been used to treat arthritis and rheumatoid conditions and honey has been called "the original medicine."
Contemporary research documents the benefits of hive products in supporting overall health and vitality, as well as confirms their therapeutic benefits in addressing a wide range of conditions that include multiple sclerosis, skin problems, infections, and cardiovascular concerns, among numerous other conditions.
CMACC will feature workshops on the properties and medicinal use of all the hive products, as well as on topics such as “Preparations and Indications of Propolis,” “Cleansing & Detox, Weight Management,” “Practical Apipuncture,” and “Recent Advances in Apitherapy.” Other lectures will focus on legal issues related to apitherapy, veterinary apitherapy and on actual case studies. Course participants will be able to take an examination and receive a certificate of knowledge.
AAS makes no claims about the safety or efficacy of honey bee products and does not endorse any specific type of apitherapy.
Charles Mraz, who died in 1999 at the age of 94, is recognized as one of the American pioneers of the use of bee venom to treat diseases. In 1994, he published "Health and the Honey Bee," a history of his decades-long experience with that treatment.
For more information about the Charles Mraz Apitherapy Course & Conference, go to: http://www.apitherapy.org
For more information on apitherapy, go to: www.apitherapy.com and www.apitherapynews.com
NOTE: Beginning October 12, 2006, the 1st International Forum on Apitherapy will be held in Athens, Greece.
The 1st International Conference on the Medicinal Use of Honey will be held August 26-28, in Malaysia.
CONTACT: Frederique Keller, (631) 351-3521, E-Mail: Kellerf@optonline.net; American Apitherapy Society, Inc., 5535 Balboa Blvd., Suite 225, Encino, CA 91316 - P: 818.501.0446 - F: 818.995.9334 - E: info@apitherapy.org
(AUGUST 24, 2006) – From September 21-24, 2006, those interested in learning more about the medicinal use of honey bee products will gather in Salt Lake City for the Charles Mraz Apitherapy Course & Conference (CMACC).
The four-day event is sponsored by the American Apitherapy Society (AAS), a nonprofit membership organization established for the purpose of advancing the investigation of apitherapy, and has in past years attracted participants from around North America and the world. Utah is known as “the Beehive State” and the state insect is the honey bee.
(NOTE: AAS President Dr. Andrew Kochan was recently interviewed on CBS Sunday Morning.)
This year, for the first time ever, AAS is offering the option of attending either the introductory apitherapy training from Thursday evening through Saturday morning, or an advanced conference from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon that covers trends in apitherapy around the world. Participants may also opt to attend both.
Apitherapy is the use of bee hive products such as bee venom, bee-collected pollen, royal jelly, propolis, beeswax, and honey to maintain good health and in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions. Propolis, known as nature's antibiotic, is a resinous substance collected by bees from plants and trees and is used to coat the inside of the bee hive and the honeycomb cells with an antiseptic layer. Royal jelly, heralded for its rejuvenating properties, is a substance produced by young worker bees and fed to queens.
Hive products have been used medicinally for thousands of years in folk medicine and are now gaining popularity worldwide as medical research validates their effectiveness. Bee venom has historically been used to treat arthritis and rheumatoid conditions and honey has been called "the original medicine."
Contemporary research documents the benefits of hive products in supporting overall health and vitality, as well as confirms their therapeutic benefits in addressing a wide range of conditions that include multiple sclerosis, skin problems, infections, and cardiovascular concerns, among numerous other conditions.
CMACC will feature workshops on the properties and medicinal use of all the hive products, as well as on topics such as “Preparations and Indications of Propolis,” “Cleansing & Detox, Weight Management,” “Practical Apipuncture,” and “Recent Advances in Apitherapy.” Other lectures will focus on legal issues related to apitherapy, veterinary apitherapy and on actual case studies. Course participants will be able to take an examination and receive a certificate of knowledge.
AAS makes no claims about the safety or efficacy of honey bee products and does not endorse any specific type of apitherapy.
Charles Mraz, who died in 1999 at the age of 94, is recognized as one of the American pioneers of the use of bee venom to treat diseases. In 1994, he published "Health and the Honey Bee," a history of his decades-long experience with that treatment.
For more information about the Charles Mraz Apitherapy Course & Conference, go to: http://www.apitherapy.org
For more information on apitherapy, go to: www.apitherapy.com and www.apitherapynews.com
NOTE: Beginning October 12, 2006, the 1st International Forum on Apitherapy will be held in Athens, Greece.
The 1st International Conference on the Medicinal Use of Honey will be held August 26-28, in Malaysia.
CONTACT: Frederique Keller, (631) 351-3521, E-Mail: Kellerf@optonline.net; American Apitherapy Society, Inc., 5535 Balboa Blvd., Suite 225, Encino, CA 91316 - P: 818.501.0446 - F: 818.995.9334 - E: info@apitherapy.org
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Propolis Effective Against Fungal Infections
Comparative Study of In Vitro Methods to Analyse the Antifungal Activity of Propolis Against Yeasts Isolated from Patients with Superficial Mycoses
Letters in Applied Microbiology, 2006 Sep;43(3):318-24
To test a total of 15 strains belonging to four species of yeasts by different in vitro methods against propolis and itraconazole (ITC)…
This study suggests the potential value of the agar dilution and disc diffusion method as a convenient alternative method for testing of yeasts to propolis. This study demonstrated that propolis and ITC were very active against yeasts from patients with superficial mycoses…
Letters in Applied Microbiology, 2006 Sep;43(3):318-24
To test a total of 15 strains belonging to four species of yeasts by different in vitro methods against propolis and itraconazole (ITC)…
This study suggests the potential value of the agar dilution and disc diffusion method as a convenient alternative method for testing of yeasts to propolis. This study demonstrated that propolis and ITC were very active against yeasts from patients with superficial mycoses…
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
American Apitherapy Society President Interviewed on CBS
What's All the Buzz About?
CBS Sunday Morning, 8/20/2006
Watch the Video
Dr. Andrew Kochan, an Encino, California, pain management specialist, and President of the American Apitherapy Society, is one of about twenty MDs in the United States who use the venom from bee stings extensively in their practices. He keeps a box of bees in his office, obtained from a local beekeeper.
Kochan says he's had significant success treating the excruciating pain of shingles.
Curtis Jenson went to Kochan for headache pain after having a brain tumor removed.
"I have to take anti-seizure medicine for the rest of my life and the less medication I have to take the better," Jenson says. "So as soon as they started doing the stingings, my pain definitely did drop."
For literally millennia, people have been taking advantage of what beekeepers discovered by accident — Alexander the Great, Confucius, even Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, used bee-sting therapy for pain. Bee venom it turns out is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and honey heals infections. It seals a wound, kills the bacteria, and then actually creates hydrogen peroxide.
"I mean, I'm not just a proselytizer for venom," Kochan says. "Bees have five, six different products. Five, six different things they make that have amazing effects to help people and help their lives and help their pain and their health and well being."…
CBS Sunday Morning, 8/20/2006
Watch the Video
Dr. Andrew Kochan, an Encino, California, pain management specialist, and President of the American Apitherapy Society, is one of about twenty MDs in the United States who use the venom from bee stings extensively in their practices. He keeps a box of bees in his office, obtained from a local beekeeper.
Kochan says he's had significant success treating the excruciating pain of shingles.
Curtis Jenson went to Kochan for headache pain after having a brain tumor removed.
"I have to take anti-seizure medicine for the rest of my life and the less medication I have to take the better," Jenson says. "So as soon as they started doing the stingings, my pain definitely did drop."
For literally millennia, people have been taking advantage of what beekeepers discovered by accident — Alexander the Great, Confucius, even Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, used bee-sting therapy for pain. Bee venom it turns out is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and honey heals infections. It seals a wound, kills the bacteria, and then actually creates hydrogen peroxide.
"I mean, I'm not just a proselytizer for venom," Kochan says. "Bees have five, six different products. Five, six different things they make that have amazing effects to help people and help their lives and help their pain and their health and well being."…
Monday, August 21, 2006
Honey as an Aternative to Atibiotics
By Thijs Westerbeek, Radio Netherlands, 8/21/2006
Click to listen to this edition of the Research File
Honey is already being used as standard issue medication in the treatment of wounds. Recently, a honey-based ointment has been introduced on the market, which is remarkably effective on slow-healing wounds that resist normal treatment. The honey in this special ointment has an anti-microbial and soothing effect and also keeps the bandages from sticking to the wound.
This ointment has been developed by the Dutch company Bfactory, an enterprise which closely cooperates with the University of Wageningen. Dr Tineke Creemers, General Manager of Bfactory, explains what standards honey has to meet to be acceptable as regular medicine:
"The trick is to make sure the honey is the same quality at all times and that its enzyme levels are as high as possible. This is because the natural enzymes in the honey give it its anti-bacterial properties. Furthermore, doctors cannot use a medicine that varies in strength, hence the need for constant quality."
While the researchers at the AMC agree that honey-based wound dressing is a success, they now intend to take another step forward; using honey as an effective alternative for antibiotics, especially in the treatment of bacterial infections of the stomach and the lower intestines. As researcher Dr Paul Kwakman explains:
"There is an end to the use of antibiotics. Resistance is becoming an ever bigger problem so we really are desperate for an alternative".
Dr Kwakman is lucky in that several plant species have pollen that naturally contains very special proteins. These proteins closely resemble peptides, human proteins that play a crucial role in our natural defences against illness. Through genetic modification, these plants can be made to produce proteins identical to human peptides. When bees then make honey from this genetically modified pollen, the peptides end up in that honey and are perfectly preserved…
Sunday, August 20, 2006
Study: Different Honeys Have ‘Virtually Identical Glycemic Indexes’
Honeys All the Same When it Comes to Glucose
Reuters Health, 8/18/2006
NEW YORK - The effect of honey on blood sugar levels is the same no matter what its source, a new study shows. Tupelo, clover, buckwheat and cotton honeys had virtually identical glycemic indexes, Dr. Mark Kern and Jennifer Ilana Ischayek report.
The glycemic index of a food is a measure of how quickly it causes blood sugar to rise. High carbohydrate, low fiber foods such as white bread or bananas have a high glycemic index, while high fiber foods containing complex carbs, including most vegetables, have a low glycemic index.
There is some evidence that the fructose-to-glucose ratio contained in honey may affect its glycemic index, as can its floral source, Kern and Ischayek write in the August issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association…
Reuters Health, 8/18/2006
NEW YORK - The effect of honey on blood sugar levels is the same no matter what its source, a new study shows. Tupelo, clover, buckwheat and cotton honeys had virtually identical glycemic indexes, Dr. Mark Kern and Jennifer Ilana Ischayek report.
The glycemic index of a food is a measure of how quickly it causes blood sugar to rise. High carbohydrate, low fiber foods such as white bread or bananas have a high glycemic index, while high fiber foods containing complex carbs, including most vegetables, have a low glycemic index.
There is some evidence that the fructose-to-glucose ratio contained in honey may affect its glycemic index, as can its floral source, Kern and Ischayek write in the August issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association…
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Honey Acts as Natural Moisturizer, Anti-Irritant, Exfoliator
Beach Ready Beauty with Honey
Hope Star (USA), 8/18/06
(ARA) - Whether you'll be bronzing at the beach, pool-side or in the back yard, it's time to make sure your skin is ready for ultimate summer exposure.
Before putting on those summer tanks and sandals, take a moment to slough away winter's effect on your skin and rejuvenate with one of nature's favorite beauty secrets - honey.
For centuries, pure honey has been used as part of a healthy skincare regimen. From Cleopatra to Jennifer Lopez, well-known beauties have used honey as part of their regular beauty treatments. Pure honey acts as a natural humectant, anti-irritant and exfoliator to give skin a sweet, youthful glow.
Christopher Watt, owner of Christopher Watt Esthetics in West Hollywood, Calif. and skin care expert to celebrity A-listers, including Halle Berry and Ricky Martin, uses pure honey in most of his skin and beauty treatments.
"I recommend using 100 percent pure honey as part of your regular beauty routine," said Watt. "With summer rapidly approaching, now is a great time to experience honey's natural moisturizing properties. Honey is an inexpensive way to get spa-like results."…
Friday, August 18, 2006
USA: Charles Mraz Apitherapy Course & Conference 2006
The CMACC will present the basics of Apitherapy, plus advanced information, culminating in an understanding of indications for and the safe use of the products of the honey bee.
Dates: September 21-24, 2006
Location: Shilo Inn, 206 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah
Dates: September 21-24, 2006
Location: Shilo Inn, 206 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah
Thursday, August 17, 2006
Honey Used to Preserve Skin Grafts
Evaluation of the Preserved Skin Graft Viability by O(2) Consumption Test
Georgian Medical News, 2006 Jun;(135):117-20
This study provides a description of the functional changes occurring in rat skin grafts preserved at 4 C in natural honey during 3, 7, 14, 30 days. To determine of the preserved skin viability we used the physiological test by measurement of O(2) consumption rate in the culture media…
Based on our investigation we can conclude that preservation method - meliteration is effective storage procedure for transplantation means (satisfactory viability preserved about 2-3 weeks)…
Georgian Medical News, 2006 Jun;(135):117-20
This study provides a description of the functional changes occurring in rat skin grafts preserved at 4 C in natural honey during 3, 7, 14, 30 days. To determine of the preserved skin viability we used the physiological test by measurement of O(2) consumption rate in the culture media…
Based on our investigation we can conclude that preservation method - meliteration is effective storage procedure for transplantation means (satisfactory viability preserved about 2-3 weeks)…
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Propolis Component Suppresses Tissue Injury
CAPE Treatment Inhibits Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Mice
Medical Devices & Surgical Technology Week, 8/20/2006
"Oxygen-derived free radicals have been implicated in the pathogenesis of tissue injury after ischemia-reperfusion," reconstructive surgeons in Turkey explained.
CAPE, "an active ingredient of honeybee propolis, has been identified as having potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties," noted B.T. Bilen and colleagues at Turgut Ozal Medical Center in Malatya. In a recent study, they "evaluated the ability of CAPE applied intraperitoneally in reducing tissue injury after ischemia-reperfusion."…
"CAPE given intraperitoneally had an inhibitory effect on tissue injury after ischemia-reperfusion comparable to that of a control group," test results revealed.
"The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of CAPE may contribute to its suppression of tissue injury," the researchers concluded.
Bilen and coauthors published their study in the Scandinavian Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery (Effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester on survival of axial pattern flaps in rats with ischaemia-reperfusion injuries. Scand J Plast Reconstr Surg Hand Surg, 2006;40(2):73-78).
Medical Devices & Surgical Technology Week, 8/20/2006
"Oxygen-derived free radicals have been implicated in the pathogenesis of tissue injury after ischemia-reperfusion," reconstructive surgeons in Turkey explained.
CAPE, "an active ingredient of honeybee propolis, has been identified as having potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties," noted B.T. Bilen and colleagues at Turgut Ozal Medical Center in Malatya. In a recent study, they "evaluated the ability of CAPE applied intraperitoneally in reducing tissue injury after ischemia-reperfusion."…
"CAPE given intraperitoneally had an inhibitory effect on tissue injury after ischemia-reperfusion comparable to that of a control group," test results revealed.
"The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of CAPE may contribute to its suppression of tissue injury," the researchers concluded.
Bilen and coauthors published their study in the Scandinavian Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Hand Surgery (Effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester on survival of axial pattern flaps in rats with ischaemia-reperfusion injuries. Scand J Plast Reconstr Surg Hand Surg, 2006;40(2):73-78).
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
A Guide to Honey's Health Benefits
The Beez Kneez
Herald Sun (Australia), 8/14/2006
Last month it was announced that bandages soaked in manuka honey are being given to mouth-cancer patients at an English hospital to reduce their chances of contracting the MRSA superbug and to lessen wound inflammation after surgery.
This is just the latest study investigating this type of honey's healing powers.
It is used at the hospital for dressing wounds, and other research has found it can fight gum disease, ease digestive problems and soothe sore throats...
A Guide to Manuka Honey's Other Benefits
A study published in the European Journal of Medical Research found manuka had an 85 per cent success rate - compared with 50 per cent with routine treatments - when used to treat infected caesarean and hysterectomy wounds.
Fights Gum Disease
Despite its sweetness, manuka honey has been found to disrupt three types of bacteria in the mouth which cause tooth decay.
In laboratory tests, it sharply reduced the acid levels produced by Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus sobrinus and Lactobacillus caseii. ..
Soothes Sore Throats
Manuka honey with a high UMF rating could help fight infections, such as the bacteria streptoccous pyogones, that causes sore throats.
Professor Molan found that taking a teaspoon three times a day, and keeping it in the mouth for as long as possible before swallowing, prevented most throat infections from developing to the point where a trip to the doctor is necessary.
Eases Digestive Problems
Lower UMF manuka honey can help maintain general health and good digestion.
They have helped to treat problems ranging from diarrhoea and indigestion to stomach ulcers.
A teaspoon on bread or toast three times a day can also ease acid reflux and heartburn.
Soothes Acne, Eczema and Sunburn
Trials at the University of Waikato are looking into the effects of manuka honey on acne and eczema.
It is suggested it is applied next to the skin as a face pack and left for 15 to 20 minutes before washing off. The honey is already used by many acne sufferers, and naturopaths recommend anyone prescribed antibiotics for acne to take the honey orally because it will help to balance bacteria in the intestine.
Diluted or neat manuka can also be applied to soothe sunburned skin.
Boosts Endurance
Using honey, including manuka of various UMFs, during exercise was found to be as successful at improving performance and power among athletes as specialist energy drinks.
Researchers at the exercise and sport nutrition laboratory of the University of Memphis found three to five teaspoons of honey reduced the time to complete a 64km time trial by more than three minutes and improved cycling power by 6 per cent compared to a placebo. "In the quest for that extra advantage, endurance athletes at all levels turn to carbohydrate sources, such as the many sports drinks on the market, to fuel strenuous exercise," Professor Richard Kreider, who led the study, says."We were pleased to find that honey, a cocktail of natural sugars, performed just as well."
Herald Sun (Australia), 8/14/2006
Last month it was announced that bandages soaked in manuka honey are being given to mouth-cancer patients at an English hospital to reduce their chances of contracting the MRSA superbug and to lessen wound inflammation after surgery.
This is just the latest study investigating this type of honey's healing powers.
It is used at the hospital for dressing wounds, and other research has found it can fight gum disease, ease digestive problems and soothe sore throats...
A Guide to Manuka Honey's Other Benefits
A study published in the European Journal of Medical Research found manuka had an 85 per cent success rate - compared with 50 per cent with routine treatments - when used to treat infected caesarean and hysterectomy wounds.
Fights Gum Disease
Despite its sweetness, manuka honey has been found to disrupt three types of bacteria in the mouth which cause tooth decay.
In laboratory tests, it sharply reduced the acid levels produced by Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus sobrinus and Lactobacillus caseii. ..
Soothes Sore Throats
Manuka honey with a high UMF rating could help fight infections, such as the bacteria streptoccous pyogones, that causes sore throats.
Professor Molan found that taking a teaspoon three times a day, and keeping it in the mouth for as long as possible before swallowing, prevented most throat infections from developing to the point where a trip to the doctor is necessary.
Eases Digestive Problems
Lower UMF manuka honey can help maintain general health and good digestion.
They have helped to treat problems ranging from diarrhoea and indigestion to stomach ulcers.
A teaspoon on bread or toast three times a day can also ease acid reflux and heartburn.
Soothes Acne, Eczema and Sunburn
Trials at the University of Waikato are looking into the effects of manuka honey on acne and eczema.
It is suggested it is applied next to the skin as a face pack and left for 15 to 20 minutes before washing off. The honey is already used by many acne sufferers, and naturopaths recommend anyone prescribed antibiotics for acne to take the honey orally because it will help to balance bacteria in the intestine.
Diluted or neat manuka can also be applied to soothe sunburned skin.
Boosts Endurance
Using honey, including manuka of various UMFs, during exercise was found to be as successful at improving performance and power among athletes as specialist energy drinks.
Researchers at the exercise and sport nutrition laboratory of the University of Memphis found three to five teaspoons of honey reduced the time to complete a 64km time trial by more than three minutes and improved cycling power by 6 per cent compared to a placebo. "In the quest for that extra advantage, endurance athletes at all levels turn to carbohydrate sources, such as the many sports drinks on the market, to fuel strenuous exercise," Professor Richard Kreider, who led the study, says."We were pleased to find that honey, a cocktail of natural sugars, performed just as well."
Monday, August 14, 2006
Bee Venom Therapy Recommended for Back Pain, MS
No Pain, No Gain, Beekeepers Say
Herald-Dispatch (USA), 8/14/2006
Gabe Blatt, president of the Cabell Wayne Beekeepers Association, contends that the stings of worker honeybees can reduce inflammation in joints, so you can resume all those pleasurable calisthenics.
"A beekeeper takes a spring-loaded reverse tweezer, picks up a bee and puts it on your body where you want to be stung," Blatt says. "He presses down and the bee will sting you."
The process is called "apitherapy," and Blatt says the results are pretty amazing. He knows a male nurse who hurt his back moving a patient. The man couldn't do a thing after his shift ended except sit at home; now, after being treated with bee stings, he plays with his children and his pain has greatly diminished.
Pat Wagner of Waldorf, Md., describes the procedure in her book, "How Well Are You Willing to Bee?" A victim of MS, she was in a wheelchair and legally blind. Now that's she's had treatments, she drives and lives an active life…
For more information, log onto www.beelief.com.
Herald-Dispatch (USA), 8/14/2006
Gabe Blatt, president of the Cabell Wayne Beekeepers Association, contends that the stings of worker honeybees can reduce inflammation in joints, so you can resume all those pleasurable calisthenics.
"A beekeeper takes a spring-loaded reverse tweezer, picks up a bee and puts it on your body where you want to be stung," Blatt says. "He presses down and the bee will sting you."
The process is called "apitherapy," and Blatt says the results are pretty amazing. He knows a male nurse who hurt his back moving a patient. The man couldn't do a thing after his shift ended except sit at home; now, after being treated with bee stings, he plays with his children and his pain has greatly diminished.
Pat Wagner of Waldorf, Md., describes the procedure in her book, "How Well Are You Willing to Bee?" A victim of MS, she was in a wheelchair and legally blind. Now that's she's had treatments, she drives and lives an active life…
For more information, log onto www.beelief.com.
Bee-Collected Pollen Recommended for Pet Allergies
Dr. Michael Fox / Pet Doctor, The Miami Herald (USA), 8/13/2006
Q:I have a Great Pyrenees/golden retriever mix with allergy problems. I've taken him to two vets. One suggested it was an outdoor allergy, and the other mentioned food allergies. He scratches day and night in the hindquarters, legs, feet, tail and near his ears. His skin is pink and irritated, and he is losing hair…
A:Your poor dog will get only temporary relief from the prednisone, and then his thirst and appetite will increase, along with the possibility of diabetes and other health problems -- including weakening of his immune system, which is already impaired because of his allergy.
I would suggest feeding your dog a simple, homemade diet (see my website at tedeboy.tripod.com/drmichaelwfox) or a hypoallergenic diet, like venison and potato. Try antihistamine pills as a safer alternative to prednisone. Put cotton sheets (laundered in hot water only) over his sleeping and resting places. A source-contact allergy may be at the root of the problem. An air filter and ionizer may also help. Some dogs suffering from seasonal allergies show considerable improvement when given a daily teaspoon of honey and bee pollen that is produced locally.
Q:I have a Great Pyrenees/golden retriever mix with allergy problems. I've taken him to two vets. One suggested it was an outdoor allergy, and the other mentioned food allergies. He scratches day and night in the hindquarters, legs, feet, tail and near his ears. His skin is pink and irritated, and he is losing hair…
A:Your poor dog will get only temporary relief from the prednisone, and then his thirst and appetite will increase, along with the possibility of diabetes and other health problems -- including weakening of his immune system, which is already impaired because of his allergy.
I would suggest feeding your dog a simple, homemade diet (see my website at tedeboy.tripod.com/drmichaelwfox) or a hypoallergenic diet, like venison and potato. Try antihistamine pills as a safer alternative to prednisone. Put cotton sheets (laundered in hot water only) over his sleeping and resting places. A source-contact allergy may be at the root of the problem. An air filter and ionizer may also help. Some dogs suffering from seasonal allergies show considerable improvement when given a daily teaspoon of honey and bee pollen that is produced locally.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
Japanese Apitherapy Society President Dies at 84
Harukichi Isono, the president of the Nippon Apitherapy Society, has passed away at the age of 84. He most recently took part in the society’s “Symposium and Workshop with International Participation” June 16-18, 2006, in Narita.
Saturday, August 12, 2006
New Zealand Apitherapy Products Firm’s Sales Up
Sales Sweet As Honey But Earnings Don't Quite Stick
By Liam Dann, New Zealand Herald, 8/12/2006
Honey and bee product company Comvita yesterday posted a mixed result for the six months to June 30. Net profits were down 7 per cent but overall sales were up 26 per cent.
Total revenue increased to $18.3 million from $14.5 million for the corresponding period last year. Net profit after tax was $602,000.
While that was lower than the half-year result of a year ago, it was well ahead of budget and in line with forecasts signalled at the AGM in April, the company said.
The Bay of Plenty-based firm sells a range of products, including honey, propolis, bee pollen, royal jelly and manuka honey wound-care products…
By Liam Dann, New Zealand Herald, 8/12/2006
Honey and bee product company Comvita yesterday posted a mixed result for the six months to June 30. Net profits were down 7 per cent but overall sales were up 26 per cent.
Total revenue increased to $18.3 million from $14.5 million for the corresponding period last year. Net profit after tax was $602,000.
While that was lower than the half-year result of a year ago, it was well ahead of budget and in line with forecasts signalled at the AGM in April, the company said.
The Bay of Plenty-based firm sells a range of products, including honey, propolis, bee pollen, royal jelly and manuka honey wound-care products…
Friday, August 11, 2006
Honey Recommended for Allergies
Honey is Medicine, Not Just a Sweet Treat
By Traci-Dale Crawford, The Daily Press (USA), 8/10/2006
Which over-the-counter product would you rather take for seasonal allergies: diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine or honey?
That's right, honey. It has been used for hundreds of years as a way to curtail allergies to local pollens.
"You want the stuff that's grown locally," said B.J. Amos of Healthy Solutions in Gloucester. "It is wonderful stuff. We have so many customers who use it, we can't keep it in stock."
Honey has a history as a homespun remedy for everything from colds to bad breath to longevity to fatigue, but should never be given to children under the age of 12 months. There isn't any scientific data to support the idea that ingesting honey works, but there is some anecdotal evidence…
By Traci-Dale Crawford, The Daily Press (USA), 8/10/2006
Which over-the-counter product would you rather take for seasonal allergies: diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, pseudoephedrine or honey?
That's right, honey. It has been used for hundreds of years as a way to curtail allergies to local pollens.
"You want the stuff that's grown locally," said B.J. Amos of Healthy Solutions in Gloucester. "It is wonderful stuff. We have so many customers who use it, we can't keep it in stock."
Honey has a history as a homespun remedy for everything from colds to bad breath to longevity to fatigue, but should never be given to children under the age of 12 months. There isn't any scientific data to support the idea that ingesting honey works, but there is some anecdotal evidence…
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Differences in Fructose-to-Glucose Ratios Do Not Impact Honey Glycemic Index
US Honeys Varying in Glucose and Fructose Content Elicit Similar Glycemic Indexes
J Am Diet Assoc., 2006 Aug;106(8):1260-2
The glycemic index of honey may vary, depending upon its floral variety and fructose-to-glucose ratio. We determined the glycemic index of four US honey varieties in 12 healthy adult men and women with a mean (+/-standard error) age of 24.5+/-1.5 years…
No statistically significant differences between the honeys were apparent, nor was a relationship between glycemic index and the fructose-to-glucose ratio detected, indicating that small differences in fructose-to-glucose ratios do not substantially impact honey glycemic index.
J Am Diet Assoc., 2006 Aug;106(8):1260-2
The glycemic index of honey may vary, depending upon its floral variety and fructose-to-glucose ratio. We determined the glycemic index of four US honey varieties in 12 healthy adult men and women with a mean (+/-standard error) age of 24.5+/-1.5 years…
No statistically significant differences between the honeys were apparent, nor was a relationship between glycemic index and the fructose-to-glucose ratio detected, indicating that small differences in fructose-to-glucose ratios do not substantially impact honey glycemic index.
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Propolis Could Have Genotoxic Effects in High Concentrations
Genotoxic Potential of Turkish Propolis in Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes
Die Pharmazie. 2006 Jul;61(7):638-40
Propolis is a natural product that is collected by the honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) from plants. The in vitro genotoxic potential of propolis in human lymphocytes was investigated…
The differences between the control and exposed cells were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Increasing SCE rates showed that propolis could have genotoxic effects in high concentrations...
Die Pharmazie. 2006 Jul;61(7):638-40
Propolis is a natural product that is collected by the honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) from plants. The in vitro genotoxic potential of propolis in human lymphocytes was investigated…
The differences between the control and exposed cells were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Increasing SCE rates showed that propolis could have genotoxic effects in high concentrations...
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
APIMEDICA 2006 Special Edition Stamps Issued
Special edition stamps are being issued for APIMEDICA 2006, the 1st International Forum on Apitherapy. The four-day APIMEDICA 2006 conference begins October 12 in Athens and is sponsored by the Greek Scientific Apitherapy Center and the International Federation of Beekeepers' Associations (APIMONDIA).
APIMEDICA 2006 will feature workshop on topics such as “Honey for Wound Healing,” “The Medical and Therapeutic Potential of Propolis,” “Bee Venom Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: A Case Study,” “The Use of Bee Products in Ophthalmology,” “The Chemistry of Royal Jelly,” and “The Therapeutic Value of Bee Pollen.”
Satellite symposia will focus on apitherapy applications in specific medical specialties, the laboratory preparation of apitherapy products and “The Bee and Beauty.”
Physicochemical Characteristics and Pollen Spectrum of Some Algerian Honeys
Food Control, Volume 18, Issue 1, January 2007, Pages 52-58
Salim Ouchemoukha, Hayette Louailecheb and Paul Schweitzerc
Salim Ouchemoukha, Hayette Louailecheb and Paul Schweitzerc
Monday, August 07, 2006
Dutch Study Examines Use of Honey to Treat Radiotherapy-Induced Wounds
The Effect of Honey Compared to Conventional Treatment on Healing of Radiotherapy-Induced Skin Toxicity in Breast Cancer Patients
Acta Oncologica (Sweden), 2006;45(5):623-4
Acta Oncologica (Sweden), 2006;45(5):623-4
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Prevent MRSA With Manuka Honey
50 Connect, 8/5/2006
Worried about MRSA? Ask for honey dressings, now available on the NHS.
A product now available on the NHS prevents MRSA, but why hasn't it received more publicity?...
The risks of MRSA are well publicised, but the same cannot be said for a preventative measure, now available on the NHS and over-the-counter. UMF® Manuka Honey dressings kill MRSA, something many of our strongest antibiotics cannot do.
Professor Molan is one of the world’s leading authorities on the use of Manuka honey in wound care. He has conducted numerous clinical trials that document the success of Manuka Honey in killing MRSA and treating various other bacterial infections associated with open wounds and ulcers at New Zealand’s Waikato Hospital.
We spoke to Professor Molan to find out how these honey dressings work and what action patients can take to prevent MRSA.
"MRSA is basically an antibiotic-resistant form of a very common bacteria that lives on your skin and normally, doesn't cause you any harm. Certainly, if it lands on an open wound it can cause an infection, but generally, your body can fight the infection itself."
"This antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria has bred itself to be so in response to our over-use of antibiotics. Some strains are resistant to all but one antibiotic and that has to be taken intravenously. In some cases, MRSA can even be resistant to that which is why it is potentially dangerous for people whose immune system isn't at it's strongest, such as the elderly, infirm or those who have major surgery. In cases where they have stopped ussing antibiotics in hospitals, the infection rate decreases so when hospitals frequently use antibiotics, they are just left with these resistant strains of bacteria."
Dr Molan has been conducting numerous clinical studies on the effectiveness of UMF® Manuka Honey against MRSA and it's additional health benefits. UMF stands for 'Unique Manuka Factor,' an acronym chosen because of it's similarity to SPF (Sun Protection Factor) on sunscreen. Although any honey can help treat burns or minor wounds, Manuka honey is the only honey with the ability to kill antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria because it contains a unique type of antibacterial activity.
"All honey, including Manuka honey, contains hydrogen peroxide which is produced when the bees add an enzyme to the nectar. Hydrogen peroxide is an acid, but because of the enzyme, it's produced continuously in the honey and at fairly low levels. This means the hydrogen peroxide can be effective against bacteria, but is not at high enough levels to cause harm to the tissues of the body."…
Worried about MRSA? Ask for honey dressings, now available on the NHS.
A product now available on the NHS prevents MRSA, but why hasn't it received more publicity?...
The risks of MRSA are well publicised, but the same cannot be said for a preventative measure, now available on the NHS and over-the-counter. UMF® Manuka Honey dressings kill MRSA, something many of our strongest antibiotics cannot do.
Professor Molan is one of the world’s leading authorities on the use of Manuka honey in wound care. He has conducted numerous clinical trials that document the success of Manuka Honey in killing MRSA and treating various other bacterial infections associated with open wounds and ulcers at New Zealand’s Waikato Hospital.
We spoke to Professor Molan to find out how these honey dressings work and what action patients can take to prevent MRSA.
"MRSA is basically an antibiotic-resistant form of a very common bacteria that lives on your skin and normally, doesn't cause you any harm. Certainly, if it lands on an open wound it can cause an infection, but generally, your body can fight the infection itself."
"This antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria has bred itself to be so in response to our over-use of antibiotics. Some strains are resistant to all but one antibiotic and that has to be taken intravenously. In some cases, MRSA can even be resistant to that which is why it is potentially dangerous for people whose immune system isn't at it's strongest, such as the elderly, infirm or those who have major surgery. In cases where they have stopped ussing antibiotics in hospitals, the infection rate decreases so when hospitals frequently use antibiotics, they are just left with these resistant strains of bacteria."
Dr Molan has been conducting numerous clinical studies on the effectiveness of UMF® Manuka Honey against MRSA and it's additional health benefits. UMF stands for 'Unique Manuka Factor,' an acronym chosen because of it's similarity to SPF (Sun Protection Factor) on sunscreen. Although any honey can help treat burns or minor wounds, Manuka honey is the only honey with the ability to kill antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria because it contains a unique type of antibacterial activity.
"All honey, including Manuka honey, contains hydrogen peroxide which is produced when the bees add an enzyme to the nectar. Hydrogen peroxide is an acid, but because of the enzyme, it's produced continuously in the honey and at fairly low levels. This means the hydrogen peroxide can be effective against bacteria, but is not at high enough levels to cause harm to the tissues of the body."…
Prevent MRSA With Manuka Honey
50 Connect, 8/5/2006
Worried about MRSA? Ask for honey dressings, now available on the NHS.
A product now available on the NHS prevents MRSA, but why hasn't it received more publicity?...
The risks of MRSA are well publicised, but the same cannot be said for a preventative measure, now available on the NHS and over-the-counter. UMF® Manuka Honey dressings kill MRSA, something many of our strongest antibiotics cannot do.
Professor Molan is one of the world’s leading authorities on the use of Manuka honey in wound care. He has conducted numerous clinical trials that document the success of Manuka Honey in killing MRSA and treating various other bacterial infections associated with open wounds and ulcers at New Zealand’s Waikato Hospital.
We spoke to Professor Molan to find out how these honey dressings work and what action patients can take to prevent MRSA.
"MRSA is basically an antibiotic-resistant form of a very common bacteria that lives on your skin and normally, doesn't cause you any harm. Certainly, if it lands on an open wound it can cause an infection, but generally, your body can fight the infection itself."
"This antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria has bred itself to be so in response to our over-use of antibiotics. Some strains are resistant to all but one antibiotic and that has to be taken intravenously. In some cases, MRSA can even be resistant to that which is why it is potentially dangerous for people whose immune system isn't at it's strongest, such as the elderly, infirm or those who have major surgery. In cases where they have stopped ussing antibiotics in hospitals, the infection rate decreases so when hospitals frequently use antibiotics, they are just left with these resistant strains of bacteria."
Dr Molan has been conducting numerous clinical studies on the effectiveness of UMF® Manuka Honey against MRSA and it's additional health benefits. UMF stands for 'Unique Manuka Factor,' an acronym chosen because of it's similarity to SPF (Sun Protection Factor) on sunscreen. Although any honey can help treat burns or minor wounds, Manuka honey is the only honey with the ability to kill antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria because it contains a unique type of antibacterial activity.
"All honey, including Manuka honey, contains hydrogen peroxide which is produced when the bees add an enzyme to the nectar. Hydrogen peroxide is an acid, but because of the enzyme, it's produced continuously in the honey and at fairly low levels. This means the hydrogen peroxide can be effective against bacteria, but is not at high enough levels to cause harm to the tissues of the body."…
Worried about MRSA? Ask for honey dressings, now available on the NHS.
A product now available on the NHS prevents MRSA, but why hasn't it received more publicity?...
The risks of MRSA are well publicised, but the same cannot be said for a preventative measure, now available on the NHS and over-the-counter. UMF® Manuka Honey dressings kill MRSA, something many of our strongest antibiotics cannot do.
Professor Molan is one of the world’s leading authorities on the use of Manuka honey in wound care. He has conducted numerous clinical trials that document the success of Manuka Honey in killing MRSA and treating various other bacterial infections associated with open wounds and ulcers at New Zealand’s Waikato Hospital.
We spoke to Professor Molan to find out how these honey dressings work and what action patients can take to prevent MRSA.
"MRSA is basically an antibiotic-resistant form of a very common bacteria that lives on your skin and normally, doesn't cause you any harm. Certainly, if it lands on an open wound it can cause an infection, but generally, your body can fight the infection itself."
"This antibiotic-resistant strain of bacteria has bred itself to be so in response to our over-use of antibiotics. Some strains are resistant to all but one antibiotic and that has to be taken intravenously. In some cases, MRSA can even be resistant to that which is why it is potentially dangerous for people whose immune system isn't at it's strongest, such as the elderly, infirm or those who have major surgery. In cases where they have stopped ussing antibiotics in hospitals, the infection rate decreases so when hospitals frequently use antibiotics, they are just left with these resistant strains of bacteria."
Dr Molan has been conducting numerous clinical studies on the effectiveness of UMF® Manuka Honey against MRSA and it's additional health benefits. UMF stands for 'Unique Manuka Factor,' an acronym chosen because of it's similarity to SPF (Sun Protection Factor) on sunscreen. Although any honey can help treat burns or minor wounds, Manuka honey is the only honey with the ability to kill antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria because it contains a unique type of antibacterial activity.
"All honey, including Manuka honey, contains hydrogen peroxide which is produced when the bees add an enzyme to the nectar. Hydrogen peroxide is an acid, but because of the enzyme, it's produced continuously in the honey and at fairly low levels. This means the hydrogen peroxide can be effective against bacteria, but is not at high enough levels to cause harm to the tissues of the body."…
Saturday, August 05, 2006
Royal Jelly Rich in Vitamin B5
B-Complex Vitamins are Vital
Tenerife News (Spain), 8/4/2006
Vitamin B5 comes from poultry, meat, whole-grains, eggs, pulses, vegetables and yeast extract. One of the best sources of this vitamin is royal jelly. The RDA is 6mg but nutritional therapists suggest doses of as much as 200mg to treat problems such as chronic fatigue. Deficiency symptoms include many already stated for the other B-vitamins plus headache, weakness, abdominal and muscle cramps and painful, burning feet…
Tenerife News (Spain), 8/4/2006
Vitamin B5 comes from poultry, meat, whole-grains, eggs, pulses, vegetables and yeast extract. One of the best sources of this vitamin is royal jelly. The RDA is 6mg but nutritional therapists suggest doses of as much as 200mg to treat problems such as chronic fatigue. Deficiency symptoms include many already stated for the other B-vitamins plus headache, weakness, abdominal and muscle cramps and painful, burning feet…
Friday, August 04, 2006
Study: Honey ‘Might Revolutionize’ Treatment of Severe Infections
Fournier's Gangrene: Report of Thirty-Three Cases and a Review of the Literature
International Journal of Urology, 2006 Jul;13(7):960-7
Fournier's gangrene (FG) is an extensive fulminant infection of the genitals, perineum or the abdominal wall. The aim of this study is to share our experience with the management of this difficult infectious disease. Thirty-three male patients were admitted to our clinic with the diagnosis of FG between February 1988 and December 2003…
The patients were divided into two groups. The first 21 patients (Group I) were treated with broad-spectrum triple antimicrobial therapy, broad debridement, exhaustive cleaning, and then they underwent split-thickness skin grafts or delayed closure as needed. The other 12 patients (Group II) were treated with unprocessed honey (20-50 mL daily) and broad-spectrum triple antimicrobial therapy without debridement…
The clinical and cosmetic results were better in Group II than Group I…Traditionally, good management is based on aggressive debridement, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and intensive supportive care but unprocessed honey might revolutionize the treatment of this dreadful disease by reducing its cost, morbidity, and mortality.
International Journal of Urology, 2006 Jul;13(7):960-7
Fournier's gangrene (FG) is an extensive fulminant infection of the genitals, perineum or the abdominal wall. The aim of this study is to share our experience with the management of this difficult infectious disease. Thirty-three male patients were admitted to our clinic with the diagnosis of FG between February 1988 and December 2003…
The patients were divided into two groups. The first 21 patients (Group I) were treated with broad-spectrum triple antimicrobial therapy, broad debridement, exhaustive cleaning, and then they underwent split-thickness skin grafts or delayed closure as needed. The other 12 patients (Group II) were treated with unprocessed honey (20-50 mL daily) and broad-spectrum triple antimicrobial therapy without debridement…
The clinical and cosmetic results were better in Group II than Group I…Traditionally, good management is based on aggressive debridement, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and intensive supportive care but unprocessed honey might revolutionize the treatment of this dreadful disease by reducing its cost, morbidity, and mortality.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Greece to Host 1st International Forum on Apitherapy
APIMEDICA 2006 Features Latest Research on Medicinal Use of Bee Products
(AUGUST 3, 2006) – Beginning October 12, 2006, the 1st International Forum on Apitherapy, the medicinal use of bee hive products, will be held in Athens, Greece. The four-day APIMEDICA 2006 conference is sponsored by the Greek Scientific Apitherapy Center and the International Federation of Beekeepers' Associations (APIMONDIA).
Apitherapy is the use of bee hive products such as bee venom, bee-collected pollen, royal jelly, propolis, beeswax, and honey to maintain good health and in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions. (Propolis is a resinous substance collected by bees from plants and trees and is used to coat the inside of the bee hive and the honeycomb cells with an antiseptic layer. Royal jelly is a substance produced by young worker bees and fed to queens.)
Hive products has been used medicinally for thousands of years and have recently gained popularity worldwide as ongoing research points to their effectiveness.
APIMEDICA 2006 will feature workshop on topics such as “Honey for Wound Healing,” “The Medical and Therapeutic Potential of Propolis,” “Bee Venom Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: A Case Study,” “The Use of Bee Products in Ophthalmology,” “The Chemistry of Royal Jelly,” and “The Therapeutic Value of Bee Pollen.”
Satellite symposia will focus on apitherapy applications in specific medical specialties, the laboratory preparation of apitherapy products and “The Bee and Beauty.”
Conference organizers say increased resistance of disease-causing agents to modern antibiotics creates an urgent need for efficient alternative treatments such as those used in apitherapy.
“Apitherapy not only offers high-quality, efficient alternative treatments, it can also help improve access to medical care for the majority of people worldwide who may not be able to afford the cost of many pharmaceutical products,” said Apimondia President Asger S. Jørgensen.
Jørgensen said bee hive products are particularly useful in the developing world because of their low cost and indigenous production.
“Conference participants will have the opportunity to learn about the latest research developments from specialists who will outline practical applications of apitherapy in health prevention, hygiene and the treatment of various diseases,” said Dimitris A. Selianakis, president of the Greek Scientific Apitherapy Center.
For more information about APIMEDICA 2006, go to: http://www.apimedica2006.gr
For more information on apitherapy, go to: www.apitherapy.com, www.apitherapy.org and www.apitherapynews.com
CONTACT: AFEA Congress, 39-41 Lycavittou Str., 10672 Athens, Greece; Tel. +30 210 3668853, Fax. +30 210 3643511, E-Mail: apimedica2006@afea.gr
(AUGUST 3, 2006) – Beginning October 12, 2006, the 1st International Forum on Apitherapy, the medicinal use of bee hive products, will be held in Athens, Greece. The four-day APIMEDICA 2006 conference is sponsored by the Greek Scientific Apitherapy Center and the International Federation of Beekeepers' Associations (APIMONDIA).
Apitherapy is the use of bee hive products such as bee venom, bee-collected pollen, royal jelly, propolis, beeswax, and honey to maintain good health and in the treatment of a variety of medical conditions. (Propolis is a resinous substance collected by bees from plants and trees and is used to coat the inside of the bee hive and the honeycomb cells with an antiseptic layer. Royal jelly is a substance produced by young worker bees and fed to queens.)
Hive products has been used medicinally for thousands of years and have recently gained popularity worldwide as ongoing research points to their effectiveness.
APIMEDICA 2006 will feature workshop on topics such as “Honey for Wound Healing,” “The Medical and Therapeutic Potential of Propolis,” “Bee Venom Treatment of Multiple Myeloma: A Case Study,” “The Use of Bee Products in Ophthalmology,” “The Chemistry of Royal Jelly,” and “The Therapeutic Value of Bee Pollen.”
Satellite symposia will focus on apitherapy applications in specific medical specialties, the laboratory preparation of apitherapy products and “The Bee and Beauty.”
Conference organizers say increased resistance of disease-causing agents to modern antibiotics creates an urgent need for efficient alternative treatments such as those used in apitherapy.
“Apitherapy not only offers high-quality, efficient alternative treatments, it can also help improve access to medical care for the majority of people worldwide who may not be able to afford the cost of many pharmaceutical products,” said Apimondia President Asger S. Jørgensen.
Jørgensen said bee hive products are particularly useful in the developing world because of their low cost and indigenous production.
“Conference participants will have the opportunity to learn about the latest research developments from specialists who will outline practical applications of apitherapy in health prevention, hygiene and the treatment of various diseases,” said Dimitris A. Selianakis, president of the Greek Scientific Apitherapy Center.
For more information about APIMEDICA 2006, go to: http://www.apimedica2006.gr
For more information on apitherapy, go to: www.apitherapy.com, www.apitherapy.org and www.apitherapynews.com
CONTACT: AFEA Congress, 39-41 Lycavittou Str., 10672 Athens, Greece; Tel. +30 210 3668853, Fax. +30 210 3643511, E-Mail: apimedica2006@afea.gr
Wednesday, August 02, 2006
Articles Promote Health Benefits of Honey
Honey Good for Your Health, Skin and Treats
By Jennifer Babulsky, Altoona Mirror (USA), 8/2/2006
Sweet and yellow accurately describes honey, but it doesn’t tell the whole story.
Just talk to area beekeepers and experts on honey and they’ll say much more, from the potential health benefits of eating even small amounts of honey to the uses for the sticky substance some may have never considered.
“I’ve heard people being told local honey with pollen prevents allergy outbreaks,” Ted Kaminski of Hastings said. “Many people also use it as their main source of sugar as a sweetener because simple sugar is more able to be absorbed by the human body and it’s better digested.”…
He said local honey has benefits compared to mass-produced honey.
“I’ve been through where they process honey and they super heat the honey, which breaks down enzymes and takes out pollen,” he said. “It destroys most of the nutrients and when you buy (commercial) honey, you’re basically buying it as a sweetener.”
Kaminski and others advocate the benefits of local honey over mass-produced honey, but the National Honey Board, which is based in Longmont, Colo., said science doesn’t back up the claims.
“There has been very little conclusive research to show local honey is better,” Bruce Wolk, director of marketing for the board, said. “I wish I could say ‘Great, this is substantiated by scientific research,’ but I can’t. The results of studies (on local honey being beneficial with allergies) have (been) inconclusive, meaning it can help some people and not help others at all.”
That’s not to say people with allergies shouldn’t try honey.
“It’s only honey and provided you’re not a diabetic, it’s worth a try,” Wolk said. “It’s a lot safer to ingest honey than to down a lot of pills.”
Research is under way to try to substantiate the theory that when you have a common cold and take a teaspoon of honey, it’s as effective as over-the-counter medications.
“If we can prove that, I’d sure rather take a teaspoon of honey than a bunch of chemicals,” Wolk said…
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Busy Bees Hard at Work Making Life a Little Sweeter for Us
By Diane Stoneback, The Morning Call (USA), 8/2/2006
"Honey's role in health and nutrition keeps expanding, too," observes Dr. Robert Roeshman, an Allentown, Pa., neurologist who also is a master beekeeper and tends 20 hives as a hobby.
"Eating a teaspoon of honey a day can help ease allergies," Roeshman says. "Just make sure you buy a local honey (not processed honey) containing local pollens or buy some pollen from an area beekeeper." He explains, "Eating either will desensitize a person to local pollens."
Roeshman considers a bee sting to be good luck and adds, "Bee venom therapy is used to treat arthritis, multiple sclerosis and pain problems. Some honeys have healing properties. Manuka honey from New Zealand is used to treat peptic ulcer disease and burn patients' ulcers. Honey also helps control bacteria that causes peptic ulcer disease."…
By Jennifer Babulsky, Altoona Mirror (USA), 8/2/2006
Sweet and yellow accurately describes honey, but it doesn’t tell the whole story.
Just talk to area beekeepers and experts on honey and they’ll say much more, from the potential health benefits of eating even small amounts of honey to the uses for the sticky substance some may have never considered.
“I’ve heard people being told local honey with pollen prevents allergy outbreaks,” Ted Kaminski of Hastings said. “Many people also use it as their main source of sugar as a sweetener because simple sugar is more able to be absorbed by the human body and it’s better digested.”…
He said local honey has benefits compared to mass-produced honey.
“I’ve been through where they process honey and they super heat the honey, which breaks down enzymes and takes out pollen,” he said. “It destroys most of the nutrients and when you buy (commercial) honey, you’re basically buying it as a sweetener.”
Kaminski and others advocate the benefits of local honey over mass-produced honey, but the National Honey Board, which is based in Longmont, Colo., said science doesn’t back up the claims.
“There has been very little conclusive research to show local honey is better,” Bruce Wolk, director of marketing for the board, said. “I wish I could say ‘Great, this is substantiated by scientific research,’ but I can’t. The results of studies (on local honey being beneficial with allergies) have (been) inconclusive, meaning it can help some people and not help others at all.”
That’s not to say people with allergies shouldn’t try honey.
“It’s only honey and provided you’re not a diabetic, it’s worth a try,” Wolk said. “It’s a lot safer to ingest honey than to down a lot of pills.”
Research is under way to try to substantiate the theory that when you have a common cold and take a teaspoon of honey, it’s as effective as over-the-counter medications.
“If we can prove that, I’d sure rather take a teaspoon of honey than a bunch of chemicals,” Wolk said…
-----
Busy Bees Hard at Work Making Life a Little Sweeter for Us
By Diane Stoneback, The Morning Call (USA), 8/2/2006
"Honey's role in health and nutrition keeps expanding, too," observes Dr. Robert Roeshman, an Allentown, Pa., neurologist who also is a master beekeeper and tends 20 hives as a hobby.
"Eating a teaspoon of honey a day can help ease allergies," Roeshman says. "Just make sure you buy a local honey (not processed honey) containing local pollens or buy some pollen from an area beekeeper." He explains, "Eating either will desensitize a person to local pollens."
Roeshman considers a bee sting to be good luck and adds, "Bee venom therapy is used to treat arthritis, multiple sclerosis and pain problems. Some honeys have healing properties. Manuka honey from New Zealand is used to treat peptic ulcer disease and burn patients' ulcers. Honey also helps control bacteria that causes peptic ulcer disease."…
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Study: Propolis Component a ‘Potent Antimetastatic Agent’
Fibrosarcoma Metastasis Inhibited by Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester
Cancer Law Weekly, 8/5/2006
According to recent research from South Korea, "CAPE derived from honeybee propolis has been used as a folk medicine. Recent study also revealed that CAPE has several biological activities including antioxidation, anti-inflammation and inhibition of tumor growth."
"The present study investigated the effect of CAPE on tumor invasion and metastasis by determining the regulation of MMPs," explained H.J. Hwang and colleagues, Ewha Woman's University. "Matrix metalloproteinases, which are zinc-dependent proteolytic enzymes, play a pivotal role in tumor metastasis by cleavage of extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as nonmatrix substrates…
"Dose-dependent decreases in MMP and TIMP-2 mRNA levels were observed in CAPE-treated HT 1080 human fibrosarcoma cells as detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Gelatin zymography analysis also exhibited a significant down-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in HT1080 cells treated with CAPE compared to controls. In addition, CAPE inhibited the activated MMP-2 activity as well as invasion, motility, cell migration and colony formation of tumor cells."
The researchers concluded, "These data therefore provide direct evidence for the role of CAPE as a potent antimetastatic agent, which can markedly inhibit the metastatic and invasive capacity of malignant cells."
Hwang and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry (Inhibitory effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester on cancer cell metastasis mediated by the down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase expression in human HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells. J Nutr Biochem, 2006;17(5):356-362).
Cancer Law Weekly, 8/5/2006
According to recent research from South Korea, "CAPE derived from honeybee propolis has been used as a folk medicine. Recent study also revealed that CAPE has several biological activities including antioxidation, anti-inflammation and inhibition of tumor growth."
"The present study investigated the effect of CAPE on tumor invasion and metastasis by determining the regulation of MMPs," explained H.J. Hwang and colleagues, Ewha Woman's University. "Matrix metalloproteinases, which are zinc-dependent proteolytic enzymes, play a pivotal role in tumor metastasis by cleavage of extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as nonmatrix substrates…
"Dose-dependent decreases in MMP and TIMP-2 mRNA levels were observed in CAPE-treated HT 1080 human fibrosarcoma cells as detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Gelatin zymography analysis also exhibited a significant down-regulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 expression in HT1080 cells treated with CAPE compared to controls. In addition, CAPE inhibited the activated MMP-2 activity as well as invasion, motility, cell migration and colony formation of tumor cells."
The researchers concluded, "These data therefore provide direct evidence for the role of CAPE as a potent antimetastatic agent, which can markedly inhibit the metastatic and invasive capacity of malignant cells."
Hwang and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry (Inhibitory effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester on cancer cell metastasis mediated by the down-regulation of matrix metalloproteinase expression in human HT1080 fibrosarcoma cells. J Nutr Biochem, 2006;17(5):356-362).