Best Manuka Honey – New Zealand

Tag: cystic fibrosis

  • Manuka Honey for Ulcers: Benefits, Uses, and Effectiveness

    Manuka Honey for Ulcers: Benefits, Uses, and Effectiveness

    Table of Contents

    Introduction

    Manuka honey is a unique and highly sought-after ingredient due to its numerous health benefits. It is produced exclusively in New Zealand and is known for its antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties. Despite its high price tag, manuka honey is valued for its ability to heal wounds, prevent tooth decay, soothe coughs and sore throats, support gut health, ease digestive symptoms, help heal ulcers, soothe inflammatory skin conditions, combat antibiotic-resistant infections, and even provide relief for cystic fibrosis. This article will explore these benefits in detail, providing valuable information about the uses and effectiveness of manuka honey.

    Heals wounds faster

    Manuka honey has been recognized for its remarkable ability to speed up the healing process of wounds, burns, cuts, and blisters. This is due to its powerful antibacterial properties, which help fight off harmful bacteria and support cell renewal. In fact, manuka honey was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration as a wound treatment in 2015. When applied topically, manuka honey creates a favorable environment for healing, reducing inflammation and preventing infection. Its effectiveness in wound healing has made it a popular choice among medical professionals and individuals seeking natural remedies for skin injuries.

    In addition to its topical use, manuka honey has also shown promising results in preventing tooth decay and promoting overall oral health. Despite being high in sugar, manuka honey has been found to be non-cariogenic, meaning it does not contribute to tooth decay. Studies have shown that manuka honey can effectively combat the bacteria that causes plaque, decay, and gum inflammation. This makes it a unique and natural alternative to refined sugar in terms of dental health. Incorporating manuka honey into your oral care routine can provide both the benefits of a sweet treat and the protection against dental issues.

    Prevents tooth decay

    Despite its sweetness, manuka honey has been found to have a positive impact on oral health and can actually help prevent tooth decay. Unlike refined sugar, manuka honey does not contribute to dental problems and has even shown to combat the bacteria that causes plaque, decay, and gum inflammation. Research has demonstrated that manuka honey can be a powerful ally in maintaining oral health, making it an excellent alternative to traditional sweeteners. By incorporating manuka honey into your daily routine, you can enjoy the sweetness without compromising your dental hygiene.

    Soothes coughs and sore throats

    Manuka honey has long been used as a natural remedy for coughs and sore throats. Its antiviral and antibacterial properties make it an effective treatment for upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), such as colds and flu. Research has shown that manuka honey is even more effective than over-the-counter medications for relieving symptoms of URTI, including sore throats, coughs, and nasal congestion. The soothing properties of manuka honey can provide much-needed relief during periods of illness and help support the body’s immune system.

    Could support gut health

    One of the lesser-known benefits of manuka honey is its potential to support gut health. Manuka honey contains non-digestible carbohydrates called oligosaccharides, which act as prebiotics. Prebiotics provide nourishment to the beneficial bacteria in the gut, promoting a healthy balance of microorganisms. By boosting the levels of good bacteria in the gut, manuka honey can enhance the function of the digestive system and improve overall gut health. This has led to its use in treating conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as well as gastritis and acid reflux.

    May ease digestive symptoms

    In addition to promoting gut health, manuka honey has also been found to alleviate digestive symptoms. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help reduce inflammation and fight off harmful bacteria in the digestive system. This can provide relief for conditions such as IBS, IBD, gastritis, and acid reflux. Manuka honey has been shown to have a soothing effect on the digestive tract, making it a natural and beneficial treatment option for individuals experiencing digestive discomfort.

    Helps heal ulcers

    Manuka honey has been proven to be effective in healing two types of ulcers: diabetic ulcers and stomach ulcers. Diabetic ulcers are typically found on the soles of the feet and can be difficult to heal due to reduced blood circulation. Manuka honey’s ability to reduce inflammation and protect against oxidative damage has been found to promote the healing of diabetic ulcers. Stomach ulcers, on the other hand, are often caused by bacterial infections. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of manuka honey make it a valuable addition to the treatment of stomach ulcers, as it can help reduce inflammation and combat harmful bacteria.

    Soothes inflammatory skin conditions

    Another area where manuka honey shines is in its ability to soothe inflammatory skin conditions. Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne can be alleviated by the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of manuka honey. Whether ingested or applied topically, manuka honey has been shown to have a positive effect on these skin conditions. Its hydrating properties, thanks to the presence of fructose, glucose, and amino acids, can also aid in moisturizing the skin. Manuka honey is a natural and gentle option for individuals seeking relief from inflammatory skin conditions.

    For antibiotic-resistant infections

    In the face of increasing antibiotic resistance, manuka honey has emerged as a potential solution. Its potent antibacterial properties have been shown to be effective against antibiotic-resistant infections. Manuka honey has been found to inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) and Burkholderia cepacia complex (B. cepacia), which are commonly associated with upper respiratory infections. This is particularly important for vulnerable populations, such as those with cystic fibrosis, who are more susceptible to these types of infections. By incorporating manuka honey into treatment protocols, healthcare professionals can potentially combat antibiotic resistance and provide effective treatment options for their patients.

    Eases cystic fibrosis

    Cystic fibrosis is a chronic genetic condition that affects the lungs and digestive system. Individuals with cystic fibrosis are prone to frequent and severe respiratory infections, which can be challenging to treat due to antibiotic resistance. Manuka honey has shown promise in providing relief for individuals with cystic fibrosis by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that commonly cause respiratory infections. By incorporating manuka honey into treatment plans, individuals with cystic fibrosis may experience improved respiratory health and reduced reliance on traditional antibiotics.

    Choosing the right manuka honey

    When purchasing manuka honey, it is important to look for the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) trademark, which ensures that you are buying the genuine article. Additionally, pay attention to the number assigned to the honey, such as 10+ or 25+. This number indicates the level of unique signature compounds, such as methylglyoxal (MGO) and dihydroxyacetone (DHA), present in the honey. The higher the number, the purer and better quality the honey, and the stronger its antibacterial properties. Keep in mind that higher-quality manuka honey may come with a higher price tag, but the benefits and effectiveness make it worth the investment.

    In conclusion, manuka honey is a remarkable ingredient with numerous health benefits. From accelerating wound healing to preventing tooth decay, soothing coughs and sore throats, supporting gut health, easing digestive symptoms, and even healing ulcers, manuka honey has proven its effectiveness in a variety of applications. It can also provide relief for inflammatory skin conditions, combat antibiotic-resistant infections, and offer support for individuals with cystic fibrosis. By choosing high-quality manuka honey and incorporating it into your daily routine, you can tap into its powerful properties and harness its many benefits for your overall health and well-being.

  • Manuka Honey Calories: A Potential Treatment for Lung Infections

    Manuka Honey Calories: A Potential Treatment for Lung Infections

    Table of Contents

    Manuka Honey Calories: a Potential Treatment for Lung Infections

    Introduction

    In the treatment of severe lung infections, such as those found in individuals with cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis, the use of antibiotics can often lead to drug resistance and serious side effects. However, a new study has found that combining the traditional drug amikacin with manuka honey can potentially reduce the dosage of the drug and improve treatment outcomes. This article discusses the findings of the study and highlights the potential benefits of this combination therapy.

    The Problem with Current Treatment Methods

    Treating infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis can be challenging due to drug resistance. The antibiotics used to combat these infections often come with severe side effects. Additionally, having a lung infection can prevent individuals from being eligible for a lung transplant, which can be fatal in some cases. Therefore, there is a need for better treatment outcomes for individuals with these pulmonary infections.

    Combining Amikacin and Manuka Honey

    Researchers in a recent study combined the drug amikacin with manuka honey to determine if this combination therapy could improve treatment outcomes. By using a lab-based lung model and a nebulizer, the combination of manuka honey and amikacin was administered through a fine spray of liquid. The researchers found that even with smaller dosages of amikacin, this combination improved bacterial clearance. This is a significant finding as it suggests that the use of manuka honey can potentially reduce the dosage of amikacin required for effective treatment.

    The Potential Benefits of the Combination Therapy

    The use of manuka honey in combination with amikacin could have significant benefits for individuals with pulmonary infections. One of the main advantages of this combination therapy is the potential to reduce the occurrence of amikacin-associated hearing loss. Amikacin is known to be a toxic drug, and reducing the dosage required for treatment can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals with cystic fibrosis. Additionally, the use of manuka honey in this therapy shows promise as a more natural and potentially less harmful alternative to traditional antibiotic treatments.

    Future Research and Testing

    While this study has shown promising results, further research is necessary to fully understand the potential of the combination therapy. The researchers hope that this treatment can be tested further in future studies to determine its effectiveness and safety. If proven to be successful, this therapy could revolutionize the treatment of pulmonary infections, offering a more effective and less harmful alternative to current treatment methods.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the combination of amikacin and manuka honey shows great promise as a potential treatment for pulmonary infections in individuals with cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. By reducing the dosage of amikacin required for effective treatment, this combination therapy can potentially improve treatment outcomes and reduce the occurrence of severe side effects. Further research and testing are necessary to validate these findings and determine the long-term effectiveness and safety of this therapy. Nevertheless, this study offers hope for individuals with pulmonary infections and opens new avenues for the development of more effective and less harmful treatment options.

    Source: https://aboutmanukahoney.com

  • Manuka Honey and Amikacin Combo Shows Promise in Treating Drug-Resistant Lung Infections

    Manuka Honey and Amikacin Combo Shows Promise in Treating Drug-Resistant Lung Infections

    Table of Contents

    Introduction

    A potential new treatment combining natural manuka honey with a widely used drug has been developed by scientists at Aston University to treat a potentially lethal lung infection and greatly reduce side effects of one of the current drugs used for its treatment.

    Manuka Honey: A Potent Medicinal Ingredient

    Manuka honey is long known to have wide-ranging medicinal properties, but more recently has been identified for its broad spectrum antimicrobial activity. Now scientists have found that manuka honey has the potential to kill a number of drug-resistant bacterial infections such as — which usually affects patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) or bronchiectasis.

    Cystic Fibrosis and Bronchiectasis: A Closer Look at the Conditions

    According to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, CF is a genetic condition affecting around 10,800 people — one in every 2,500 babies born in the UK – and there are more than 100,000 people with the condition worldwide. The NHS defines bronchiectasis as a long-term condition where the airways of the lungs become widened, leading to a build-up of excess mucus that can make the lungs more vulnerable to infection.

    The Study: Combining Manuka Honey and Antibiotics

    In the study, the researchers used samples of the bacteria taken from 16 infected CF patients. They then tested the antibiotic amikacin, combined with manuka honey, to discover what dosage was required to kill the bacteria. As part of the study, the team used a lab-based lung model and nebulizer – a device that produces a fine spray of liquid often used for inhaling a medicinal drug.

    By nebulizing manuka honey and amikacin together, it was found they could improve bacterial clearance, even when using lower doses of amikacin, which would result in fewer life-changing side effects to the patient.

    The Results: Promising Treatment for CF Patients

    In the UK, mycobacterium abscessus complex (MABSC), infects 13% of all patients with CF. This new approach is advantageous not only because it has the potential to kill off a highly drug-resistant infection but because of the reduced side effects, benefiting quality of life and greatly improving survival chances for infected CF patients.

    MABSC is a bacterial pathogen from the same family that causes tuberculosis, but this bug differs by causing serious lung infections in people (particularly children) with pre-existing lung conditions, such as CF and bronchiectasis, as well as causing skin and soft tissue infections. The bacteria is also highly drug-resistant. Currently, patients are given a cocktail of antibiotics, consisting of 12 months or more of antimicrobial chemotherapy and often doesn’t result in a cure.

    The dosage of amikacin usually used on a patient to kill the infection is 16 micrograms per milliliter. But the researchers found that the new combination using manuka honey required a dosage of just 2 micrograms per millimeter of amikacin – resulting in an one eighth reduction in the dosage of the drug.

    Until now, MABSC has been virtually impossible to eradicate in people with cystic fibrosis. It can also be deadly if the patient requires a lung transplant because they are not eligible for surgery if the infection is present.

    Researcher’s Insights: Implications and Future Studies

    Commenting on their findings, lead author and PhD researcher Victoria Nolan said: “So far treatment of pulmonary infections can be problematic due to its drug-resistant nature. The variety of antibiotics required to combat infection results in severe side effects.

    “However, the use of this potential treatment combining amikacin and manuka honey shows great promise as an improved therapy for these terrible pulmonary infections.

    “There is a need for better treatment outcomes and in the future, we hope that this potential treatment can be tested further.”

    Dr. Jonathan Cox, senior lecturer in microbiology, Aston University said: “By combining a totally natural ingredient such as manuka honey with amikacin, one of the most important yet toxic drugs used for treating , we have found a way to potentially kill off these bacteria with eight times less drug than before. This has the potential to significantly reduce amikacin-associated hearing loss and greatly improve the quality of life of so many patients – particularly those with cystic fibrosis.

    “I am delighted with the outcome of this research because it paves the way for future experiments and we hope that with funding we can move towards clinical trials that could result in a change in strategy for the treatment of this debilitating infection.”

    Dr. Peter Cotgreave, chief executive of the Microbiology Society said: “The Microbiology Society is proud to support the scientific community as it explores innovative solutions to overcome the growing global challenge of antimicrobial resistance. This study demonstrates one of many ways in which microbiologists are pioneering new methods to tackle drug-resistant infections, by incorporating natural products, like manuka honey, into existing therapies.”

    Conclusion

    The combination of manuka honey and the drug amikacin has shown promising results in combating drug-resistant bacterial lung infections in patients with cystic fibrosis and bronchiectasis. The use of manuka honey has the potential to greatly reduce the dosage of amikacin, resulting in fewer side effects and improved quality of life for patients. This innovative treatment approach paves the way for further studies and potential clinical trials that could revolutionize the treatment of these debilitating infections.