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Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a condition that causes red, itchy, and scaly rashes on the skin. Many people are turning to natural remedies for eczema, and one of the most effective options is manuka honey. Manuka honey, produced by bees that gather pollen from the Manuka bush in New Zealand, has incredible healing properties that can help with various skin issues, including acne and fungal infections.
The Effectiveness of Honey for Eczema
The effectiveness of honey for treating eczema is still a topic of debate due to the lack of scientific studies. However, some research suggests that honey could be potentially effective in the treatment of eczema, although more studies are needed to confirm these findings. Another study has found that honey appears to be useful in managing dermatitis (eczema) and psoriasis.
The Special Power of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey stands out when it comes to treating eczema due to its antibacterial and cell-killing properties. It has been shown to inhibit pathogens that can cause wound infections, even those that are resistant to conventional antibiotics. When choosing manuka honey for eczema, it is important to look for the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF), which indicates the honey’s antibacterial strength.
How to Choose the Best Manuka Honey for Eczema
Manuka honey comes in different strengths, starting from UMF 5 and going up to UMF 15+. Anything below UMF 5 does not have therapeutic strength, while UMF 10-15 is useful but may not be as effective for treating eczema. For optimal results, it is recommended to choose manuka honey with a UMF of 16-20+.
How to Apply Manuka Honey for Eczema
To apply manuka honey to the affected area, simply spread a layer of raw honey and leave it on for at least 20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. However, keep in mind that manuka honey can be sticky, so it may not be suitable for overnight use. Here are some of the best manuka honey products for eczema:
1. Kiva’s Raw Manuka Honey
Kiva’s raw manuka honey is highly rated and harvested from the remote and pristine areas of New Zealand. It has a UMF rating of 20+, equivalent to methylglyoxal (MGO) 825+. This raw honey has excellent healing properties that can help in the treatment of eczema.
2. Manuka Health Manuka Honey
Manuka Health offers a honey with a methylglyoxal ratio (MGO) of 550+, which is equivalent to a minimum UMF rating of 15.6+. This honey works as a natural boost for overall well-being and can be used as an alternative to refined sugar.
3. Eczema Cream with Manuka Honey
If you prefer a cream instead of raw honey, there are eczema creams available that contain manuka honey. One example is a GMO-free natural eczema cream enriched with Certified Organic – New Zealand Manuka Honey (UMF 16+). This cream is moisturizing and soothing, making it ideal for severely dry and irritated skin.
Before trying any natural remedies or supplements, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
1. Alangari, Abdullah A. et al. “Honey Is Potentially Effective in the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis: Clinical and Mechanistic Studies.” Immunity, Inflammation, and Disease (2017): 190–199.
2. Noori S. Al-Waili. “Topical application of natural honey, beeswax, and olive oil mixture for atopic dermatitis or psoriasis: partially controlled, single-blinded study.“ Complementary Therapies in Medicine Volume 11, Issue 4, December 2003, Pages 226-234
