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As an Acupuncturist on a cruise ship, I had the opportunity to explore the exotic and historic Marshall Islands. These islands, consisting of 29 atolls and 5 islands, are located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and have a rich and complex history. During my visit, I had a surreal and life-changing experience when I was attacked by a dog. This incident made me realize the importance of understanding the dog culture in foreign lands and the therapeutic steps to take after being bitten by a dog. It also introduced me to the healing properties of Manuka Honey for wound care. In this article, I will share my misadventure and provide tips for dealing with dog bites, as well as the benefits of using Manuka Honey for wound healing.
Exploring the Marshall Islands
The Marshall Islands are known for their stunning beauty, with turquoise lagoons and coral reefs. However, they also have a darker history, having been occupied by the Japanese during World War II and used as a nuclear testing ground by the United States. Despite my uneasiness about getting off the ship, I decided to explore the largest atoll, Majuro, the capital city. As I wandered along the water, I came across remnants of World War II, such as rusty relics and flotsam. The juxtaposition of the island’s natural beauty and its historical scars was intriguing.
A Surreal Dog Attack
While exploring the island, I inadvertently found myself in an area where the locals lived. Many of them resided in small huts that resembled utility sheds. As I walked past one of these huts, I noticed a man sleeping with his feet sticking out. Feeling uneasy, I decided to turn around and head back towards the water. However, before I could do so, I felt something brush against my ankle. To my surprise, a mid-sized dog had clamped its jaws around my ankle and was holding on tightly. The dog didn’t growl or show any signs of aggression, it simply held on silently.
In that moment, I knew I had to remain calm and find a way to safely remove myself from this situation. So, I slowly and silently dragged my leg away from the dog for what felt like an eternity. Finally, the dog gently let go and I limped away, never to see it again. I realized I was bleeding profusely and had a deep wound on my left calf, approximately 1 inch by 1/2 inch in size. My immediate concern was the possibility of rabies, but fortunately, I had recently received a tetanus shot.
Seeking Wound Care
I made my way back to the cruise ship, limping all the way, and headed straight to the medical center. The doctor didn’t seem overly concerned about rabies, as there had never been a case of rabies reported on the Marshall Islands. However, he did prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. For the next few days, I couldn’t help but worry about the potential for rabies, even though the chances were low. Thankfully, I never developed rabies and the wound eventually healed.
Discovering the Healing Properties of Manuka Honey
Back home in Seattle, I noticed that my wound was not healing properly. Despite having a healthcare background, wound care was not my specialty. Determined to find a solution, I visited a western medical clinic where the doctor recommended Medihoney, a brand of honey that contains New Zealand’s renowned Manuka Honey. Having heard great things about Manuka Honey during my time in New Zealand, I was eager to try it.
I followed the doctor’s instructions and kept my wound dry, applying a slice of Medihoney and covering it with a bandage at all times. To my surprise, within a week of using Medihoney, my wound started to heal dramatically. I was amazed and grateful for the improvement. I continued to use Medihoney for another 1-2 weeks, and my wound eventually healed completely. This experience led me to become an advocate for the healing properties of Manuka Honey.
How Manuka Honey Works for Wound Healing
Manuka Honey is produced by bees that pollinate the flowers of the Manuka Bush, found in New Zealand. What sets Manuka Honey apart from traditional honey is its antibacterial properties, which are attributed to its active ingredient, methylglyoxal. This active ingredient is believed to be responsible for the honey’s healing effects.
Manuka Honey promotes wound healing by maintaining a moist wound environment, thanks to its antibacterial activity. It also creates a protective barrier that prevents infection and helps to regulate the wound’s pH level. Additionally, the high sugar content of Manuka Honey inhibits microbial growth.
Tips for Dealing with Dog Bites
Based on my experience and research, I would like to share some tips for dealing with dog bites, especially when traveling:
- Research the dog culture and rabies statistics of the place you are visiting before your trip.
- Ensure you have received a tetanus vaccine to protect against tetanus infection.
- Seek immediate medical attention after a dog bite. If the doctor recommends it, take antibiotics to prevent infection.
- If the doctor deems it necessary, get a rabies shot after a dog bite.
- Keep Manuka Honey, such as Medihoney, in your first aid kit for wound care healing acceleration.
- If your wound is not healing properly, follow up with a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.
Conclusion
Being bitten by a dog in the Marshall Islands was a life-changing experience for me. It made me realize the importance of understanding the dog culture in foreign lands and taking appropriate steps after a dog bite. It also introduced me to the healing properties of Manuka Honey for wound care. I now travel with more mindfulness about dogs and always keep Manuka Honey in my first aid kit. If you find yourself in a similar situation, remember to research the dog culture, seek medical attention, and consider using Manuka Honey for wound healing. Stay safe and take care of your health while exploring the world.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to diagnose, cure, or treat any disease. Consult a health practitioner for any illness or injury.
