Antibiotic resistance poses a significant global health threat, as bacteria are increasingly becoming resistant to commonly used antibiotics, making infections harder to treat and sometimes life-threatening. To address this challenge, researchers have explored alternative treatments, and one promising option is Manuka honey.
Manuka honey, derived from the nectar of the Manuka tree native to New Zealand has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries. Recent studies have revealed its potent antibacterial properties, particularly effective against antibiotic-resistant infections.
Noteworthy research conducted by the University of Southampton in the UK, published in the journal Frontiers in Microbiology, focused on Manuka honey's potential in combating antibiotic-resistant lung infections caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium prevalent in cystic fibrosis patients. The researchers discovered that Manuka honey effectively targeted all strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, including those resistant to multiple antibiotics. Moreover, the honey broke down the bacteria's protective biofilm, enhancing the penetration and efficacy of antibiotics.
Biofilms play a crucial role in antibiotic resistance, acting as protective communities of bacteria. Manuka honey's ability to disrupt these biofilms is significant, as it improves the effectiveness of antibiotics against resistant bacteria.
In another study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, Manuka honey demonstrated effectiveness against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), notorious for its resistance to antibiotics. Remarkably, Manuka honey exhibited MRSA-killing properties at concentrations considerably lower than those required by conventional antibiotics.
But how does Manuka honey achieve these remarkable effects? It contains methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound responsible for its antibacterial activity. MGO forms when the natural compound dihydroxyacetone in Manuka honey reacts with enzymes. The higher the MGO content, the stronger the antibacterial activity.
Beyond its antibacterial properties, Manuka honey is rich in antioxidants and possesses anti-inflammatory attributes, which contribute to reducing lung inflammation and enhancing overall lung health. Consequently, it shows promise in treating conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, characterized by lung inflammation.
Moreover, Manuka honey offers additional health benefits. Studies have indicated its efficacy against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium causing stomach ulcers and gastritis. Furthermore, it has shown the potential to promote wound healing and may even possess anticancer properties.
However, it's crucial to note that not all Manuka honey is of equal quality. The antibacterial activity of Manuka honey depends on the level of MGO, and not all products labeled as Manuka honey are authentic. To ensure you're getting genuine Manuka honey with the highest antibacterial activity, look for products certified by the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) Honey Association.
In conclusion, Manuka honey, with its natural and powerful antibacterial properties, shows promise in combating antibiotic-resistant lung infections. It can enhance overall lung health and offers various health benefits. While further research is needed to fully comprehend its potential, Manuka honey represents a promising alternative treatment for antibiotic-resistant infections and may provide a safe and effective solution for those resistant to conventional antibiotics.
Are you looking to add Manuka honey into your lifestyle? Here are a few of our favorites we recommend you try:
Manuka Health-Manuka Honey & Lemon 15 Lozenges
Manuka Health-Manuka Honey Lemon & Ginger Enges
Manuka Health-MGO 263 Manuka Honey
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About the author.
Emily Alexander, M.Ed, FNTP—Emily is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner with Curated Wellness. She is passionate about supporting others in their journey to improve their relationship with food and their body through gentle nutrition and is a firm believer that understanding the bio-individual components of nutrition is one of the best ways to do so. Emily completed her Master’s of education in health education and promotion with a concentration in eating disorders and draws from both her educational background and life experience to help her clients improve their energy, understand their bodies, boost their athletic potential, and break down diet myths one at a time. Read more about Emily
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REFERENCES
1.Frontiers | Anti-pseudomonad Activity of Manuka Honey and Antibiotics in a Specialized ex vivo Model Simulating Cystic Fibrosis Lung Infection (frontiersin.org)
2. https://academic.oup.com/jac/article/67/6/1405/692120 Synergy between oxacillin and manuka honey sensitizes methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus to oxacillin | Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy | Oxford Academic (oup.com)
3. https://mountainvalleyhoney.co.nz/articles/what-is-mgo-in-manuka-honey-methylglyoxal-explained What is MGO in Manuka honey? Methylglyoxal explained (mountainvalleyhoney.co.nz)
4. Johnston, M., McBride, M., Dahiya, D., Owusu-Apenten, R., & Nigam, P.S. (2018). Antibacterial activity of Manuka honey and its components: An overview. AIMS microbiology, 4, 655 _ 664. https://doi.org/10.3934/microbiol.2018.4.655
5.Nzeako, B. C., & Al-Namaani, F. (2006). The antibacterial activity of honey on helicobacter pylori. Sultan Qaboos University medical journal (2), 71–76.
