Monday, June 30, 2008

Battling the MRSA Superbug with Manuka Honey

With predictions of MRSA killing more people in the future than AIDS, medical professionals turn to the use of an old remedy; honey.

MRSA (methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus) is an antibiotic-resistant bacterium that causes life-threatening infections. A MRSA infection can become fatal if entered into the bloodstream which is why it is imperative to treat this condition immediately. MRSA treatment doesn't have to be as difficult as some people think. Even though antibiotics have become ineffective in treating these types of Staph infections, a particular type of honey, known as Manuka Honey is extremely effective.

MRSA Staph infections can be healed efficiently and quickly with the use of bio-active Manuka honey-based dressings. Studies have shown that the MRSA superbug can not develop a resistance to Money Honey because it has an osmotic effect that draws moisture out of the bacterial cells, making it impossible for the bacteria to survive.

An appropriate treatment for MRSA is to apply a Manuka honey-based dressings such as Honeymark's First Aid Antiseptic Lotion directly to the effected area. Active Manuka Honey has the ability to diffuse into the depth of skin tissue, healing deep-seeded infections that are otherwise hard-to-heal. The treatment of MRSA in a timely manner is critical as to avoid more serious complications. MRSA skin infections have a tendency to reappear which is why continued use of a Manuka honey-based dressings is advised.

Treating MRSA related Staph infections with antibiotics is proving to be increasingly more ineffective. It is also estimated that additional antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria will begin to emerge in the future, which is why doctors have become more dependent on the use of Manuka Honey as an antibacterial agent. Manuka Honey breaks down the MRSA colonization and destroys the resilient bacterium where antibiotics have failed.

MRSA symptoms can be identified as pimple-like boils. Precautions should be taken in hospitals and schools to prevent the spread of MRSA infection. Such precautions are maintaining good hygiene, regularly washing hands, using clean towels to dry hands after washing and the use of non-alcohol hand sanitizing gels. MRSA eradication is an extreme challenge faced by hospitals worldwide. Statistics indicate that it is more likely to contract a Staph infection in a medical facility than anywhere else within the community.

Manuka honey-based MRSA treatments are becoming available to hospitals and individuals worldwide as word of its effectiveness becomes mainstreamed. With reports of Manuka Honey acting as a natural cure for MRSA, antibiotics will most definitely be used less, especially since MRSA drugs usually prove to be useless. To date, there have been no reports of any bacteria being able to develop a resistance to Manuka Honey which is bringing new hope in the area of infection control.

"Our First Aid Antiseptic Lotion is our best selling product, specifically because of its ability to eradicate MRSA and heal Staph infections," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "In addition, this product is also effective in treating pressure sores, skin ulcers, surgical and chronic wounds as well as minor cuts and scrapes."

For more information or to purchase Honeymark's First Aid Antiseptic Lotion with active Manuka Honey, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Honeymark Takes the Sticky Mess out of Manuka Honey

With scientific reports indicating that Manuka Honey is effective in treating MRSA and a variety of other health conditions, one manufacturer of skin care products delivers a more user-friendly application.

With all the various types of skin care products available on the market, Honeymark International of Long Island, NY has developed a niche by utilizing a special type of honey indigenous to New Zealand. Bio-active Manuka Honey has been proven to have extraordinary natural healing properties, capable of treating conditions such as infected wounds, dermatitis, acne, ringworm, etc. There are very compelling studies that have been recently conducted that show Manuka Honey's antibacterial properties are so powerful that even antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria such as MRSA have not been able to develop a resistance to it. This breaking news has drawn worldwide attention within the medical communities as medical professionals search for alternative solutions to treat Staph infections and other hard-to-heal wounds.

Even though Manuka Honey has been found to efficiently eradicate both bacterial and fungal infections, it's sticky texture has always made it less desirable to use topically on the skin. Like all types of honey, Manuka Honey is a moist, sugary substance that most people would never consider using on their skin. However, active Manuka Honey has healing properties not found in standard types of honey, making it much more suitable for medical use. Honeymark imports Manuka Honey from New Zealand and blends it into their skin care products, allowing for a much more desirable texture. In addition, Honeymark products also contain other ingredients that are effective in treating the various health conditions that each product is designed to be used for.

For example, Honeymark's First Aid Antiseptic Lotion contains Benzalkonium Chloride which is and FDA approved disinfectant that is very effective in clearing infection. Their Anti-Itch Cream contains hydrocortisone which can be found in many eczema and psoriasis products. Tolnaftate is an ingredient in their Anti-Fungal Solution that kills fungus which combined with Manuka Honey's antimicrobial properties can eliminate conditions such as ringworm, jock itch, athlete's foot and nail fungus. Honeymark's Pain Relief Cream contains ingredients such as Camphor, Menthol, Emu oil and almond oil that are used to provide relief to arthritis sufferers and individuals experiencing muscle and joint pain.

Manuka Honey could never be comfortably spread on the skin the way a cream or a lotion can. Especially in the U.S., where many people still regard honey as merely a food item and not for medical use, Honeymark has provided consumers with a convenient way to utilize this amazing natural resource. Honeymark is also in the process of releasing an Antiseptic Spray as well as a Hand Sanitizing Gel, both containing active Manuka Honey. These products will help in preventing the spread of MRSA without relying on alcohol as the only means of killing germs.

"We have seen a significant increase in the publics awareness of Manuka Honey over the past 6-8 months," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "Mostly because consumers now have the ability to educate themselves on their own health concerns thanks to the Internet. Manuka Honey is being regularly used in the Asian and European markets. It works too well not to penetrate the U.S. market as a viable treatment option to antibiotics and more traditional forms of medicine."

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey products, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Monday, June 23, 2008

Manuka Honey Testimonials

From success in treating hard-to-heal wounds and serious infections to dermatitis and fungal infections, customers attest to the effectiveness of Honeymark's Manuka Honey products.

Medical professionals and patients all over the world are beginning to recognize the medicinal benefits of utilizing Manuka Honey in skin care products. This all-natural ingredient is gaining its well-deserved notoriety as being one of the most effective healing agents known to man. Even though honey was used by the ancient Egyptians for thousands of years, doctors began to lose sight of its effectiveness during the progression of modern medicine. However, due to the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria plaguing our communities, combined with the fact that consumers are becoming increasingly more interested in natural alternatives, the use of honey for medical purposes is being looked at in a different light.

Manuka Honey, a special type of honey that contains unique plant-derived components is more potent than standard honeys. This medical grade honey's antibacterial properties are second to none and its effectiveness against certain health conditions is being noted where more traditional forms of medicine have failed. Honeymark, a manufacturer of advanced skin care products, has benefited from the increased interest in Manuka Honey. The following are testimonials from customers that have used their products.

Susan O.
Groton, MA

I have received my order of Anti-Fungal Solution and want to thank you so much. I already see results in less then 24 hours. I am totally blown away!!!! I have been struggling with trying to naturally deal with ringworm for quite a while after taking in some rescue cats, and nothing has really worked. I thank you! I already see this is healing.

Anita S.
Glenrock, WY

I was horrified when my doctor told me that I had contracted a Staph infection. I become even more concerned when I started researching MRSA on the internet and found out that most antibiotics don't work and that it could be fatal condition if not treated properly. Then I stumbled upon your website and read about how Manuka Honey can destroy MRSA and heal Staph infections. Only a week after using your First Aid Antiseptic Lotion, my infection was almost entirely healed. I'm so grateful that your product was capable of treating my infection. I always keep a bottle of it in my medicine cabinet just in case. I even use it for minor cuts and it works great.

Rose C.
Naples, FL

I've tried countless eczema products my entire life, none of which have ever worked. I've suffered with embarrassing, dry skin blotches all over my body and finally tried your Anti-Itch Cream as a last resort. Not only did it stopped the itching associated with the eczema, but it also eliminated those unsightly dry patches of skin. I can now wear my bikini again. Thank you.

Robert B.
Eastland, KY

I have suffered from painful arthritis for many years. It was so bad that it prevented me from participating in certain activities. My wife got me some of your Pain Relief Cream and I was amazed as to how well it worked. It has a soothing effect that started working immediately. Once I start feeling that muscle and joint pain, I use your product and within minutes the pain is gone. I even use it for stiff necks and backaches. This is truly a unique product.

John T.
Maplewood, OR

I wanted to write to you about your Antiseptic Lotion. I had a chronic wound on my leg that would not heal. As a result, I was out of work for weeks. I went from wound center to wound center but none of the treatments improved my condition. I even had my leg in a hyperbaric chamber for a while but still no progression. A friend of mine told me about Manuka Honey and how well it is supposed to work on hard-to-heal wounds. I wasn't crazy about the idea of dealing with the sticky mess of putting honey on my skin but then I came across your Antiseptic Lotion with Manuka Honey. Finally, within days, the wound started to heal. Once I began applying the lotion the pain went away and even the malodor was eliminated. Within 2 weeks, the wound was completely healed and I was back to work. This product is truly amazing.

Tina C.
Santa Ana, CA

After hearing about the outbreak of Staph infections across the country, I started researching how I could protect my family. To my surprise, I found dozens of articles about how Manuka honey is able to cure Staph infections and is effective against MRSA. I purchased a bottle of your First Aid Antiseptic Lotion to keep on hand, just in case. Well, luckily, none of us ever got a Staph infection. However, whenever my kids get scrapes or cuts, I use your product and it works amazingly well. I am surprised at how quickly it heals wounds. I stepped on a piece of glass when I was walking on the beach one day. It was so bad that I couldn't even walk. When I got home, I immediately put the First Aid Antiseptic Lotion on it and tried to stay off my feet for the rest of the day. The next morning, it was almost completely healed. I was amazed that it had worked so quickly. Even when my kids get their usual scrapes and cuts, I put the First Aid Antiseptic Lotion on a bandage and the wound is usually healed within a matter of hours. I just wanted to let you know how happy I was with your product.

"In addition to our line of Manuka Honey skin care products, Honeymark will be releasing a line of cosmetic product later this year," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "Such products will include an Anti-Aging Serum, Acne Cream, Shampoo, Conditioner, Moisturizer, etc., all of which contain Active Manuka Honey."

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey products, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Saturday, June 21, 2008

Honey, Bacteria's Worst Enemy

Medical grade honey is now being considered the most powerful weapon against infection because of the presence of extremely powerful antibacterial properties.

Even though honey has been used as a wound dressing for thousands of years, recent studies have shown that one particular type of honey seems to be more effective than others. In the beautiful, pollution-free mountains of New Zealand, a plant called the Manuka Tree grows abundantly, spawning white and pink flowers that produce a nectar that bees use to make a unique type of honey. Manuka Honey is tested for its medicinal qualities that are a result of plant-derived components, making it an extremely valuable resource. Elements such as methylglyoxal and UMF make Manuka Honey far more effective in treating infected wounds and other skin conditions than ordinary honey.

There are several reasons why Manuka Honey is ideal for medical use. Manuka Honey has an osmotic effect which draws moisture out of bacterial cells, making it impossible for the bacteria to survive. The high sugar content in Manuka Honey reduces water molecules, making it difficult for microorganisms to develop and inhibit the growth of bacteria. When moisture is drawn out of bacterial cells by osmosis, the bacteria shrivel up and die, similar to the way slugs do when salt is poured over them.

Manuka Honey is also very acidic. The low pH level in Manuka Honey inhibits the growth of pathogens. In addition, the presence of hydrogen peroxide acts as an effective antibacterial agent. The hydrogen peroxide in Manuka Honey is produced when bees add enzymes to the floral nectar. However, the hydrogen peroxide exists in a slow-release manner that is strong enough to destroy bacteria but low enough to avoid tissue damage.

Manuka Honey also has phytochemical factors which contribute to its healing ability. Some scientists believe that Methylglyoxal is responsible for Manuka Honey's bioactive qualities while others refer to Manuka Honey's antibacterial component as the Unique Manuka Factor or UMF. Nevertheless, Manuka Honey's ability to destroy bacteria and heal infections is unparalleled. Even hard-to-heal wounds and antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria (such as MRSA) have not been able to combat the antibacterial properties of Manuka Honey. In addition to it's antibacterial properties, Manuka Honey also has antimicrobial properties, making it effective in treating fungal infections as well.

Because Manuka Honey has proven to be so effective in killing bacteria, it is now being used as a main ingredient in wound dressings. Honeymark, a manufacturer of Manuka honey-based skin care products has achieved great success utilizing the powerful healing properties of Manuka Honey. "Our products heal wounds infected with MRSA and clear eczema when other products have failed," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "Even fungal infections can be efficiently eradicated and it's all because of the healing powers of Manuka Honey."

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey products, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Thursday, June 19, 2008

How Manuka Honey Kills MRSA and Heals Staph Infections

Breaking news in the industry of advanced wound care has led to the recognition of honey derived from the Manuka Tree (indigenous to New Zealand) has extraordinary antibacterial properties that are capable of destroying antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria such as MRSA.

As the name suggests, Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureaus (MRSA) is a bacterium that has developed a resistance to Methicillin and other antibiotics. With the overuse of antibiotics in the past 3 decades, experts predict the emergence of more drug-resistant bacteria in the future.

In addition to the frustration of MRSA being impervious to antibiotics, its life-threatening nature has communities affected by Staph infections rattled. Since antibiotics don't work and some topical agents cause tissue damage, Manuka Honey is being considered a favorable healing agent. Because Manuka Honey provides an osmotic effect, moisture is drawn out of bacteria without causing damage to the skin. Bacteria cannot survive in the healing environment created by Manuka Honey, making it an ideal wound dressing.

Not only has Manuka Honey been proven to heal all kinds of bacterial infections, it has also been found to have no negative side effects. In addition to its ability to destroy bacteria responsible for infecting wounds, Manuka Honey's healing properties also have the ability to repair damaged skin and regenerate new skin growth. Even though Manuka Honey draws moisture away from bacterial cells, it has a moisturizing effect on the skin.

Honeymark, a manufacturer of Manuka honey-based skin care products has developed a First Aid Antiseptic Lotion containing Active Manuka Honey that is being used to treat MRSA and Staph infections. This product avoids the sticky mess of applying honey directly to the skin while having other valuable ingredients that help clear infection. In addition to Active Manuka Honey, it contains Benzalkonium Chloride which is an FDA approved antiseptic, providing a second line of defense against bacteria.

"While the medical industry scrambles for an alternative to antibiotics, Honeymark has offered them a solution to the MRSA epidemic on a silver platter," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "Manuka Honey has the ability to draw water out of bacterial cells, similar to the way salt makes a slug shrivel up and die."

For more information or to purchase Honeymark's First Aid Antiseptic Lotion, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Tuesday, June 17, 2008

A Cure for MRSA

Honeymark International, a manufacturer of advanced skin care products, has announced that its wound care product, First Aid Antiseptic Lotion (Wound & Burn Dressing with Active Manuka Honey), significantly reduces the presence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in wounds.

MRSA continues to plague hospitals, schools and communities by killing thousands of people each year. The number of hospital admissions for MRSA has significantly increased over the past decade (1000% increase since 1995). It is estimated that 53 million people carrying MRSA. This resilient bacterium is resistant to common antibiotics such as methicillin, amoxicillin, penicillin and oxacillin. It is also expected that MRSA will quickly become resistant to new antibiotics as well. Historically, MRSA has been most common among people with weak immune systems living in hospitals, nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. However, it has become a problem in healthy people, increasing the number of reported cases of community-acquired MRSA.

It has been reported that MRSA, which is now reaching beyond the walls of hospitals and nursing homes into the general community, claims more lives than AIDS in some countries. That's why products such as Honeymark's First Aid Antiseptic Lotion are being viewed as a valuable alternative to antibiotics. In addition to eradicate MRSA, Honeymark's First Aid Antiseptic Lotion also helps wounds heal faster. When treating wounds or skin ulcers, the effectiveness of Active Manuka Honey in eliminating MRSA and healing Staph infections is a positive finding that has encouraging implications for wound management and infection control.

In addition to the increase in MRSA, the need for more advanced wound care solutions is being driven by an aging population as well as the rise in diabetes and chronic vascular disorders. It is also expected that more mutated, antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria will begin to emerge in the future. Recent market research suggests an increase in the need for Manuka honey-based dressings because of their effectiveness in healing wounds as well as bacteria's inability to develop a resistance to Manuka Honey.

Even though most doctors usually prefer pharmaceuticals over natural alternatives, MRSA's ability to defeat antibiotics has left the medical industry with no choice other than to take Manuka Honey products seriously. At a time when consumers are becoming more educated on the negative health effects of synthetic pharmaceutical ingredients and gaining interest in all-natural products, Honeymark is capitalizing on the astounding health benefits of Manuka Honey. To date, there has been no reports of any negative side effects to using Manuka Honey for medical purposes.

"Manuka Honey attacks bacteria in a different manner in which antibiotics do," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "Manuka Honey's osmotic action has to draw moisture out of the bacteria, making it impossible for them to survive. This is why MRSA and other hard-to-kill bacteria will never be able to develop a resistance to it."

For more information or to purchase Honeymark's Fist Aid Antiseptic Lotion, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Friday, June 13, 2008

How to Treat MRSA and Staph Infections

Amid the growing concerns for this life-threatening condition, researchers discovery that MRSA cannot develop a resistance to Manuka Honey the way it has been able to with antibiotics.

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a type of bacteria that is resistant to certain antibiotics, such as methicillin and other common antibiotics such as oxacillin, penicillin and amoxicillin. MRSA is usually transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with shared items or surfaces that have come into contact with someone else's infection, such as towels or used bandages. If entered into the blood stream, MRSA infections can become fatal.

When treating MRSA, taking antibiotics is not enough to destroy the bacterium or heal a Staph infection. Even though some medicines may help the boil to go away, the germ is still all around you, and you will most likely get it again if proper prevention measures are not followed. This dilemma has doctors and other medical professionals scurrying for an alternative to antibiotics.

Why don't antibiotics work? Antibiotics are medicines that help to fight bacterial infections. However, bacteria have the ability to mutate and become resistant to elements attempting to destroy them, such as antibiotics. Bacteria quickly develop new traits through mutations that help protect them against antibiotics. The mutated organisms survive and reproduce, passing along the mutation to their offspring. Eventually, antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria will outnumber the non-resistant ones under the constant pressure of antibiotic use.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria change in some way that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of drugs, chemicals or other agents designed to cure or prevent infections. The bacteria survive and continue to multiply causing more harm. In more simple terms, when a bacteria becomes resistant to an antibiotic, it means that it has come up with a way to keep the antibiotic from working against it. It has been noted that more than 70% of the bacteria that cause infections are resistant to at least one antibiotic used to treat them.

What's the solution? Manuka Honey has the ability to destroy bacteria by drawing moisture out of the bacterial cells, making it impossible for the bacteria to survive. This is different than the way antibiotics kill bacteria. There has been countless clinical studies that have proven Manuka Honey's ability to completely wipe out the superbugs associated with MRSA-related Staph infections. As a result, Manuka Honey is now being used in wound dressings as a powerful antibacterial agent. To date, there have been no reported cases of any bacteria being able to develop a resistance to Manuka Honey.

What is Manuka Honey? There is a unique type of plant that is indigenous to New Zealand and certain parts of Australia called the Manuka Tree (Leptospermum scoparium). Honeybees gather the nectar of the flowers that grow on the Manuka Tree and take it back to their hives where they add enzymes to it to form honey. It is this unique nectar that possess special antibacterial properties which makes Manuka Honey different than other types of honey.

This medical grade honey is now being used in wound care products as a healing agent. Honeymark is a manufacturer of skin care products that utilizes Active Manuka Honey as a main ingredient. Honeymark's First Aid Antiseptic Lotion is an effective topical solution when treating MRSA. In addition to Active Manuka Honey, this product also contains Benzalkonium Chloride which is an FDA approved antiseptic. The chloride is, in essence, salt which has the ability to absorb moisture, similar to the way Manuka Honey does. Anyone who has ever poured salt over a slug has watched the slug shrivel up and die. The same thing happens to bacteria when it comes in contact with chloride.

"Honeymark has taken the sticky mess out of using plain Manuka Honey on the skin," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "Our First Aid Antiseptic Lotion contains UMF Active Manuka Honey which has the ability to diffuse into the depth of tissue, healing wounds below the surface of the skin. This has become our best selling product because of its ability to effectively heal Staph infections."

For more information or to purchase Honeymark's First Aid Antiseptic Lotion, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Manuka Honey as a First Line of Defense Against Infection

Recent studies have shed some light on the unusual antibacterial activity of a certain type of honey, leading to a greater understanding of its ability to kill pathogenic bacteria and promote healing in wounds and other skin conditions.

Manuka Honey, found in New Zealand and certain parts of Australia, is made from a plant known as Leptospermum scoparium or more commonly known as the Manuka tree. Honeybees use the nectar that is produced from the flowers of the Manuka tea tree to make this special type of honey that has been found to have extraordinary healing properties. Studies show that this Manuka Honey is effective against many different drug-resistant clinical isolates, including the notorious Golden Staph/MRSA bacterium.

There has been evidence for the medical use of honey throughout history. Almost every culture that had access to honey has utilized it as a therapeutic agent, with its use as a wound dressing being particularly common across many different cultures. The use of honey as a wound dressing stems from its antibacterial activity, usually due to the production of hydrogen peroxide. However, Manuka Honey has additional antibacterial activity due to plant-derived components such as UMF and Methylglyoxal. These additional antibacterial and antimicrobial components make Manuka Honey ideal as a topical solution for the treatment of bacterial infections, fungal infections, dermatitis and other skin conditions.

In addition to possing significant antimicrobial properties, Manuka Honey has also been shown to actively promote healing. Researchers have discovered that Manuka Honey directly stimulates human cells that are important in the immune response and in wound healing. When used topically on the skin, Manuka Honey repairs damaged skin and regenerates new tissue. It also has the ability to diffuse into the depth of skin tissue where its anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce pain.

Because Manuka Honey is indigenous to New Zealand, reports of its ability to heal have penetrated the Asian and European markets and is being regularly used in hospitals and by consumers. Recently, the word has been spreading into the U.S., predominately because of its ability to completely wipe out the MRSA bacterium and efficiently heal Staph infections where antibiotics have completely failed. Even doctors who historically prefer the use of pharmaceuticals are beginning to warm up to the idea of using this natural substance for therapeutic use.

"Despite the ancient and modern evidence suggesting an enormous potential for honey as a wound dressing, it is largely underutilized in the U.S.," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International, a manufacturer of skin care products containing active Manuka Honey as a healing agent. "With antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria emerging, Manuka Honey may become the only viable treatment solution for severe infections."

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey products, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Manuka Honey and Wound Care

Many reports indicate that Manuka Honey is an extremely effective first aid resource for cuts, grazes, gashes, burns and other wounds.

Derived from the nectar of the flowers that grow on the Manuka tree, native to New Zealand, Manuka Honey is gaining ever increasing worldwide recognition for its healing properties. There are many ways in which Manuka Honey can be used, particularly for topical use on the skin. There is growing anecdotal evidence that Manuka Honey is effective for therapeutic use, even against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria such as MRSA. Manuka Honey has shown great promise in the treatment of wounds, leg ulcers and burns.

The use of Manuka Honey for wound care is the area receiving the most attention from researchers. It is important to know that all honey has some antibacterial activity that is effective in the treatment of wounds, primarily due to the presence of hydrogen peroxide. The additional healing properties found in bio-active Manuka Honey (such as UMF and methylglyoxal) make it even more suitable for medical use. Not only can Manuka Honey destroy existing bacteria in an infected wound, but it also creates a protective barrier over the wound area, preventing more bacteria from entering.

With the range of antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, trace elements and sugar, Manuka Honey has a positive nutrient effect on newly regenerating tissue in a healing wound. Equally important in regard to new tissue growth in wounds, is the process of changing dressings. Wound dressings containing Manuka Honey create a moist healing environment that prevents direct contact between the dressing and newly formed tissue so that damage or disturbance to it is reduced from the changing of dressings.

More serious wounds such as Leg ulcers are a frustrating occurrence that can detrimentally affect mobility if worsened. The same healing properties that make Manuka Honey effective for the treatment of wounds also apply to leg ulcers. There are many anecdotal reports indicating that active Manuka Honey is effective in treating leg ulcers that were not responding to conventional treatments. It has also been noted that Manuka Honey is successful at reducing the malodor associated with leg ulcers and chronic wounds.

Manuka Honey’s effectiveness in healing and preventing infection is also helpful for the treatment of burns. A reduction of pain associated with burns has also been reported, due to the anti-inflammatory properties present in Manuka Honey. As part of Manuka Honey's ability to keep a wound area moist and its positive nutrient effect on tissue regeneration, it also helps to reduce scarring by lifting scabs and dead tissue, allowing the burn or wound to heal flush with the surface of the skin.

If the idea of using honey on your skin is not desirable, there is a viable solution. A company called Honeymark has developed a line of skin care products containing UMF Active Manuka Honey as a healing agent. "Honeymark products take the sticky mess out of applying Manuka Honey directly to wounds or other skin conditions," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "In addition to medical-grade active Manuka Honey, there are also other helpful ingredients in our products that gives you the edge over using plain Manuka Honey to treat a wound or burn."

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey products, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Sunday, June 8, 2008

The Phenomenon of Manuka Honey

The use of a medical-grade honey that is capable of destroying drug-resistant bacteria is successfully being used as a main ingredient in skin care products to cure a variety of different symptoms where antibiotics and traditional forms of medicine are ineffective.

Interesting information about a particular type of honey that comes from New Zealand is beginning to surface all over the world. Researchers are discovering that Manuka Honey possesses extremely powerful healing properties and may be more effective in treating certain symptoms than pharmaceuticals. As a result, it is being viewed as a natural treatment alternative on health conditions where antibiotics and other conventional medicines have failed. Manuka Honey is also being used as a desirable cosmetic ingredient in skin care products because of its ability to rejuvenate and moisturize the skin.

Manuka Honey has been used successfully in the treatment of burns, blisters, ringworm, pressure sores and dermatitis. It has long been used as an effective wound dressing because of its unparalleled antibacterial properties and its ability to efficiently clear infection. In addition to Manuka Honey's ability to destroy all bacteria, it also keeps wounds from dehydrating. Some traditional wound dressings keep wounds dry which can avoid infection, but leading to scarring. Others keep wounds moist which avoids the severe effects of dehydration, but creates a better environment for bacteria to grow. Manuka Honey has the ability to lift scabs and dead tissue, allowing the wound to heal flush with the surface of the skin while drawing water out of bacterial cells, making it impossible for bacteria to survive.

Researchers have also concluded that Manuka Honey is better than antibiotics because antibiotics actually slow down the rate of cell growth. However, the moisture-attracting nature of Manuka Honey actually pulls body fluids and nutrients into the wound surface where they help regenerate new skin growth and quicken the healing process.

All types of honey contain hydrogen peroxide, a known disinfectant, which is produced when the glucose in honey reacts with oxygen. However, the problem with hydrogen peroxide as an antiseptic is that it breaks down in the presence of enzymes in the body. In honey, hydrogen peroxide is produced in a slow-release manner, which preserves its effectiveness without damaging skin tissue. Although standard honey loses its effectiveness when exposed to light or heat, Manuka Honey's healing properties remain stable which is why it is the only type of honey that should be used for medical purposes.

In addition to the presence of hydrogen peroxide, scientists have also discovered other antibacterial properties in Manuka Honey such as UMF and methylglyoxal. These additional antibacterial properties are what makes Manuka Honey unique and especially effective for medical use. However, it is important to know that not all Manuka Honey has bio-active healing properties. It is generally accepted that Manuka Honey with a UMF rating of 10 or higher is considered to be medical grade honey and suitable for therapeutic use.

Patients all over the world are now enjoying the medicinal benefits of active Manuka Honey as it has been found to be effective against a wide range of microorganisms responsible for many negative health conditions. Manuka Honey has even been proven to work against antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as the MSRA bacterium which is responsible for the life-threatening Staph infections that have been plaguing our schools and hospitals. "It is expected that Manuka Honey may make antibiotics obsolete as more drug-resistant bacteria begin to emerge," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International which is a manufacturer of skin care products that utilizes active Manuka Honey as a main ingredient. "It is not unrealistic to assume that we may see more bacteria resistant to antibiotics in the near future, making the medical use of active Manuka Honey imperative."

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey products, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Honey and Skin Care

The use of honey in skin care products is becoming increasingly more popular as reports of its effectiveness are published.

There may be no better way to bring a smooth glow to your skin than by using skin care products containing honey. Honey's ability to absorb and retain moisture make it an ideal ingredient in many cosmetics as it helps keep skin hydrated and fresh. In fact, history shows that ancient beauties regularly applied a mixture of honey and milk to the face to keep their skin looking young, radiant and smooth.

Honey's natural antioxidant and antimicrobial properties help to protect the skin from the damage of the sun's rays while supporting the skin's ability to rejuvenate and refresh depleted skin. One advantage to using honey as a natural skin care ingredient is for the treatment of acne. Honey absorbs impurities from the pores in the skin, making it an ideal cleansing agent. There is also an increasing number of honey products being introduced to the market for hair care, skin care, hand lotions, facial masks, moisturizers, wound care, etc.

One company that is capitalizing on the use of honey in skin care products is Honeymark International, which utilizes a special kind of honey found only in the New Zealand region. Honeymark uses Manuka Honey in its skin care products, which is naturally produced by bees who gather nectar from the Manuka tree, indigenous to the pollution-free environment of New Zealand. Manuka Honey has special plant-derived components that make its effectiveness in skin care many times greater than standard types of honey. In addition to hydrogen peroxide, which is found in all types of honey, Manuka Honey's unique components are Methylglyoxal and UMF. Manuka Honey also has a variety of nutrients and vitamins that contribute to its effectiveness in skin care.

Now that research and clinical studies have revealed that bacteria are the cause of infection and other skin conditions, Manuka Honey has become accepted as an extremely valuable resource. Manuka Honey has very powerful antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that create an environment that is impossible for bacteria to survive. Even the resilient MRSA bacterium has not been able to develop a resistance to Manuka Honey. This has become of increasing interest among medical professionals as Staph infections plague our hospitals and communities.

"Honeymark takes the sticky mess out of using honey topically on the skin," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International. "We import Manuka Honey from New Zealand and blend it into our medicated creams and lotions for a much more desirable and user-friendly application." Honeymark currently has Manuka Honey products that are effective in treating wounds, burns, eczema, psoriasis, ringworm, etc. Honeymark also plans on increasing their line of Manuka honey-based products later this year to include an acne cream, anti-aging serum, hand sanitizing gel, antiseptic spray, shampoo, conditioner, liquid hand soap and a moisturizer. Buonanotte has also indicated that the company is working on the development of facial masks and bandages that have Manuka Honey infused into a coconut fiber material that can be applied directly to the skin, allowing for more efficient diffusion into the depth of skin tissue.

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey skin care products, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.

Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Therapeutic Benefit of Manuka Honey in Wound Care

Researchers have conducted extensive studies in order to take a closer look at how and why Manuka Honey is effective in healing wounds. The results are very interesting.


In comparing the use of Manuka Honey dressings with topical antiseptics on wound infections, it has been found that Manuka Honey dressings significantly reduce the amount of fluid exuding from the wound. This, in part, is a result of the anti-inflammatory properties present in Manuka Honey. In addition, the anti-inflammatory properties in Manuka Honey also help to reduce pain and minimize scaring.

It has also been established that Manuka Honey dressings create a moist wound environment which facilitates the healing process. Manuka Honey draws lymph out of the deeper tissues of the wound by osmosis and continuously cleanses the wound bed. Lymph fluid contains enzymes that degrade protein molecules. The constant reduction of wound fluids remove foreign body contamination, such as dirt or grit.

The most likely explanation for Manuka Honey’s debriding activity involves the conversion of blood to plasmin, which is an enzyme that breaks down the protein in blood coagulation. This conversion minimizes dead tissue and scab formation on the wound. The osmotic action of Manuka honey draws moisture into the skin.

It has also been found that Manuka Honey has the ability to reduce malodor in wounds. Malodorous substances such as ammonia and sulphur compounds are produced when bacteria feeds on the protein in a wound. Because Manuka Honey provides bacteria an alternative source of energy (sugar), these noxious compounds are no longer produced and wound malodor is eliminated.

In clinical observations, Manuka Honey has also been proven to have the ability to manage wound infection in circumstances where antibiotics and other conventional treatments have failed. More specifically, Manuka Honey has been found to be effective against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) and other multi-resistant microorganisms. These mutated types of bacteria protect themselves from antimicrobial elements by forming a biofilm. Manuka Honey breaks down these clumpy biofilms as well as preventing the formation of biofilms. These findings are particularly encouraging, considering the growing number of cases involving Staph infections that don't respond to antibiotics. So far there has been no evidence of any bacterial resistance to Manuka Honey. It is highly unlikely that bacteria will ever be able to develop a resistance to Manuka Honey because bacteria rely on sugar as a source of food.

Manuka Honey's antibacterial properties are a result of the following:

1. The high sugar content and low water activity provides an osmotic action;
2. Acidic pH inhibits bacterial growth;
3. Glucose oxidase enzyme produces hydrogen peroxide;
4. Plant-derived factors such as UMF and Methylglyoxal.

Manuka Honey's antibacterial properties have the ability to penetrate below the surface of the skin, making it possible to clear deep-seated infections and boils with unbroken skin. In other words, Manuka Honey diffuses through the skin, getting to deeper tissues.

"The use of Manuka Honey dressings help prevent cross contamination," says Frank Buonanotte, CEO of Honeymark International which is a manufacturer of advanced wound and skin care products containing Active Manuka Honey as a healing agent. "The sticky nature of Manuka Honey provides a protective barrier that prevents cross contamination."

For more information or to purchase Manuka Honey-based wound care dressings, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.