Manuka Honey Helps Heal Wounds, Stomach Ulcers

Manuka Honey is the Bees Knees
The anti-bacterial properties of Manuka honey are so potent that it can heal wounds, treat stomach ulcers – and even fight MRSA
By Rosanna Macpherson, The Independent (Ireland), 5/26/2009

Manuka honey is a sticky golden indulgence that doesn't just taste delicious on your toast, it can also boost your health. Originally produced in New Zealand, Britain's first Mauka maker, Tregothnan, based in Cornwall, is now offering pots of its honey for £55 a jar. Manufactured in special beehives costing £5000 each, the Manuka commands a high price because it possesses proven medicinal qualities – as well as being a treat for those with a sweet tooth…

How does it aid healing?

The anti-bacterial qualities in Manuka also help to promote faster healing in deep wounds. The active enzymes in the honey cause dead skin cells to lift off the wound leaving a clean area for regeneration. The honey is said to stimulate the growth of new blood capillaries, replace connective tissues and produce the collagen fibres that give strength to healing wounds. Compared with routine treatments that had a 50 per cent success rate, the European Journal of Medical Research found Manuka boasted an 85 per cent figure when used to treat contaminated caesarean and hysterectomy wounds.

Is it easy to stomach?

Manuka honey has had positive results when used to treat stomach ulcers caused by helicobacter pylori bacteria, also a cause of stomach cancer. The active form of Manuka honey eliminates h. pylori and is a safe, cost-effective treatment that can be taken without the need for a prescription. Professor Molan suggests taking a teaspoon of Manuka honey with a small amount of bread three times a day to relieve digestive issues such as acid reflux, indigestion and gastritis. Manuka's anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties help reduce the pain of these stomach complaints.

What else can it be used for?

Manuka is increasingly being used in burn treatments. It helps stop secondary infections and decreases the likelihood of the patient needing skin grafts because the skin regenerates quickly with less scarring when the honey is used. Some forms of Eczema have also seen improvements with Manuka-based products. Due to the osmotic effect the honey creates, it can draw moisture into the affected area alleviating inflammation and soreness associated with eczema. Manuka can help to reduce acne and skin blemishes. It can be applied in the form of a face mask or mixed with moisturiser to help nourish the skin. The honey helps to kill bacteria that build up around hair follicles and larger pores that lead to acne.