Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Manuka Honey Used in Cancer Treatment

Medicine may be increasingly high-tech, but the latest wonder treatment which is being offered to patients is honey.

Recently, it was announced that bandages soaked in Manuka Honey are to be given to mouth cancer patients at the Christie Hospital in Manchester to reduce their chances of contracting the MRSA superbug and to lessen wound inflammation following surgery. This is just the latest study investigating this particular type of honey’s healing powers.

Manuka Honey is used routinely at the Manchester Royal Infirmary for dressing wounds, and other research has found it can fight gum disease, ease digestive problems and soothe sore throats. In addition to its internal uses, Manuka Honey can also be used externally on the skin to treat conditions such as infected wounds, eczema, ringworm, acne, etc.

All honey contains hydrogen peroxide, a substance once used as a wound disinfectant in hospitals. It comes from an enzyme that bees add to nectar. It also contains the enzyme glucose oxidase, which boosts its antibacterial properties. This was recognized by the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, who used honey to help heal burns and sores. However, it has been recognized that Manuka Honey from New Zealand contains higher levels of these healing properties, more so than any other type of honey.

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