New Wound Healing Product with Manuka Honey

Honey has been used in wound care since the ancient Egyptians. As more reports of its effectiveness are published, it is becoming increasingly popular as a modern wound dressing material. Laboratory studies have demonstrated the significant antibacterial activity of honey. In addition, the antimicrobial properties of honey prevent microbial growth in a moist healing environment. However, unlike other antiseptics, honey is said to cause no tissue damage.

Honey is 80% simple sugars (glucose and fructose) and 20% water. It contains vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K and many minerals, and essential oils and flavonoids contribute to its healing properties. Most honeys contain some hydrogen peroxide thought to contribute high antibacterial activity, but Manuka honey does not have peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide in honey is made by glucose oxidase enzyme added by the bees that becomes activated by contact with water. In commercial honey, this element is inactivated by exposure to heat. Honey has a pH of between 3.2 and 4.5, acid enough to inhibit or stop the growth of many species of bacteria. The healing properties of Manuka Honey are special because of high levels of enzyme activity.

"Although honey has been used as a traditional remedy for burns and wounds, the potential for its inclusion in mainstream medical care is not well recognized. Honeymark plans to change that. The overall effect of our Wound Relief Lotion is to reduce infection and to enhance wound healing in burns, ulcers, and other cutaneous wounds. We use Manuka Honey in our products because studies show that it has enhanced antibacterial activity." Frank Buonanotte, CEO - Honeymark International

Many clinical studies have demonstrated the benefits of honey as a wound dressing. Clinical observations of these studies are that:

* Infection is rapidly cleared;
* Inflammation, odor, swelling and pain are quickly reduced;
* Shedding of necrotic is induced;
* Granulation and epithelialization are hastened;
* Healing occurs rapidly;
* Scaring is minimal.