THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS OF MANUKA HONEY IN MODERN MEDICINE: A NARRATIVE REVIEW OF CLINICAL EFFICACY AND SAFETY
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.3(51).2026.5874Keywords:
Manuka Honey, Methylglyoxal, Wound Healing, Oral Mucositis, Clinical EfficacyAbstract
Introduction: Manuka honey, derived from the nectar of the Manuka tree, is recognized in medicine for its unique non-peroxide antibacterial activity. This property stems from high levels of methylglyoxal, formed naturally during honey ripening. Amidst rising antibiotic resistance, such natural agents are being evaluated for their multi-target mechanisms in clinical practice.
Purpose: This review evaluates the clinical efficacy and safety of medical-grade Manuka honey across various clinical fields, including surgical and non-surgical specialties, based on recent evidence-based research and biochemical data.
Methods: A critical evaluation was performed using electronic databases, focusing on randomized clinical trials, case reports, and systematic reviews published in the last two decades. Sixteen primary sources provided data for this synthesis, evaluating Manuka honey as both a primary and adjunctive treatment.
Results: Clinical evidence indicates that Manuka honey improves symptoms of dry eye and blepharitis by reducing colonization and stabilizing the tear film. In oncological care, it helps manage radiation-induced oral mucositis and xerostomia. It also shows success in treating chronic rhinosinusitis and wounds by disrupting biofilms and promoting regeneration. Its antibacterial properties benefit oral hygiene and folliculitis treatment.
Conclusion: Manuka honey is a versatile and safe therapeutic agent. It is intended to supplement conventional systemic antibiotics rather than replace them, serving as a biological adjunct for chronic inflammatory conditions, specialized wound care, and the protection of mucosal surfaces during intensive oncological treatments.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Natalia Domańska, Dominika Galińska, Joanna Zajączkowska, Natalia Marzec, Aleksandra Marzec, Anna Roman, Natalia Krupa, Małgorzata Cherek, Weronika Praska, Stanisław Maria Wardęcki
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