Manuka Honey for Cuts The Healing Power of Nature

Evidence of honey being used for burns and wounds can be traced back centuries. From the Sumerians of Mesopotamia to the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, medicinal honey has been a staple in traditional medicine practices. It is mentioned in religious texts like the Bible and Quran and is ingrained in ancient Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Today, honey is recommended by dieticians, holistic doctors, used in hospitals, and even prescribed by some MDs!

In this article, we will explore the healing properties of manuka honey specifically for cuts and wounds. We will discuss the difference between raw manuka honey and the manuka honey used in hospitals, the recommended strength for different types of wounds, the importance of further studies on manuka honey, and how to use honey for cuts effectively.

The Difference between Raw Manuka and Hospital-Grade Manuka Honey

Raw honey is pure, unadulterated honey that has not been pasteurized or heated above hive temperature. The only difference between raw manuka honey and the manuka honey used in hospitals is that the latter is typically treated with high heat or gamma radiation to “sterilize” the honey.

While sterilizing honey does kill the raw benefits and affects its ability to provide nutrients like amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, it does not affect the MGO (methylglyoxal) content. MGO is the antibacterial/microbial/inflammatory component of manuka honey, which makes it effective for medicinal use.

Although some argue that sterilizing manuka honey is unnecessary, as untreated honey has been used for centuries without adverse side effects, the sterilization process ensures the honey’s safety in medical settings. Manuka honey is the honey of choice in hospitals because it has high levels of MGO, which has been found to be more effective than standard honey for most medicinal uses.

What Strength of Manuka Honey Should You Use for Cuts?

The strength of manuka honey you choose depends on the severity of the cut or wound. For minor cuts and scrapes, a low MGO (60+) honey is usually sufficient. However, more severe cases may require higher activity honey.

While “medical grade” honey is not a recognized grading system, you might come across this term on packaging. It is important to note that the MGO content is what determines the honey’s quality and effectiveness, not the label “medical grade.” Look for the MGO content when choosing a manuka honey product.

At PRI, we offer manuka honey with grades up to 1000+ MGO, which is suitable for new surgical wounds, severe wounds, and non-healing wounds. It is always recommended to consult with your doctor or healthcare professional for proper treatment recommendations.

Generally, honey with an MGO of 400+ and up is recommended for external purposes or more severe internal issues such as significant inflammation, injury to the stomach lining, chemotherapy, and other medical conditions that require anti-inflammatory properties.

The Importance of Further Studies on Manuka Honey for Cuts and Wounds

While there is centuries-old evidence and some promising current studies on the use of honey for medicinal purposes, more research is needed, especially given the growing threat of antibiotic resistance.

Antibiotic resistance is a major global health concern caused by the overuse of antibiotics and the ability of microorganisms to evolve and survive. Honey has never caused bacterial resistance and has been shown to be effective against antibiotic-resistant organisms. Manuka honey is particularly effective against bacteria such as Pseudomonas, staph infections, and MRSA.

Further studies on manuka honey and its healing properties for cuts and wounds can provide valuable insights and alternative treatment options, especially in the face of increasing antibiotic resistance.

Burns vs. Wounds: When to Seek Medical Attention

Burns and wounds are different types of injuries that require different levels of medical attention. It is important to understand the severity of your injury and seek appropriate medical care when necessary. Here are the different types of burns and wounds and when to seek treatment:

Types of Burns and When to Seek Treatment

1. First-Degree Burns or Superficial Burns: These are mild burns that cause pain and reddening of the outer layer of the skin or epidermis. Examples include minor cooking burns or sunburns. No medical treatment is usually needed for these burns.

2. Second-Degree Burns or Partial Thickness Burns: These burns affect the outer layer of the skin or epidermis and the lower layer of the dermis. Examples include burns from boiling water, chemical heat packs, curling irons, or friction burns. While no medical treatment is typically needed, use your discretion and seek medical attention if necessary.

3. Third-Degree Burns or Full Thickness Burns: These burns go through the lower layer of the skin or dermis and affect deeper tissues. They require immediate medical attention and can be caused by prolonged exposure to scalding liquid, flames, or electric or chemical sources.

4. Fourth-Degree Burns: These burns go deeper than third-degree burns and can affect muscles and bones. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience this type of burn. They are typically caused by prolonged flame exposure, scalding oils, or electric or chemical sources.

Types of Wounds and When to Seek Treatment

1. Penetrating Wounds: These include surgical wounds, puncture wounds, burns from thermal, chemical, or electric sources, bites and stings, blunt force trauma, abrasions, lacerations, and skin tears. Use your discretion to determine if medical attention is needed.

2. Closed Wounds: These include contusions, blisters, seroma, hematoma, crush injuries, ulcers, and other closed injuries. Again, use your discretion to determine if medical attention is necessary.

When in doubt, it is always better to seek medical attention to ensure proper care and treatment for your cuts or wounds.

How Manuka Honey Helps Treat Cuts and Wounds

Manuka honey has several beneficial properties that make it effective in treating cuts and wounds. When applied to cuts and wounds, manuka honey:

• Reduces inflammation
• Reduces scar contractures
• Neutralizes free radicals
• Stimulates tissue repair processes
• Exhibits high antibacterial effectiveness
• Strengthens the immune system
• Creates a moist environment for skin cell regrowth
• Provides necessary nutrients like amino acids, vitamins, and minerals for faster healing
• Acts as a physical barrier against infection
• Cleans and deodorizes wounds
• Promotes epithelialization
• Alleviates pain and provides a soothing effect

These functions of manuka honey have been supported by various studies. For more details on each function and the corresponding research studies, please refer to the sources mentioned in the following links:

• Honey and Healing Functions
• Manuka Honey for Non-Healing Wounds

How to Use Manuka Honey for Cuts

When using manuka honey for cuts, it is important to follow proper application methods. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Clean the area: Before applying honey, clean the cut or wound with a diluted honey and water mixture or a saline solution. This helps remove any debris and prevents infection.

2. Apply the honey: Use a clean finger or a sterile applicator to apply a thin layer of manuka honey directly onto the cut or wound. Ensure that the honey covers the entire area.

3. Dress the wound: After applying the honey, cover the cut or wound with a sterile dressing or bandage. This helps keep the honey in place and protects the wound from further contamination.

4. Monitor and change dressings: Check the wound regularly for any signs of infection or worsening. Change the dressing and reapply honey as needed, following proper hygiene practices.

It is important to note that manuka honey may cause a temporary stinging sensation when applied to cuts or open wounds. This is normal and usually subsides quickly.

In conclusion, manuka honey has been used for centuries for its healing properties, especially in the treatment of cuts and wounds. It offers numerous benefits, including its antibacterial effectiveness, anti-inflammatory properties, and ability to promote tissue repair. While further studies are needed to fully understand its potential, manuka honey can be a valuable addition to your wound care routine. Always consult with your healthcare professional for proper treatment recommendations and to determine the appropriate strength of manuka honey for your specific needs.