SupplementModerate evidenceImmunity

Manuka honey (topical wounds)

New Zealand monofloral honey with Cochrane-supported topical use in burns and contaminated wounds.

Why

Manuka honey (from Leptospermum scoparium) is the most-studied honey for topical wound application. The Cochrane review of honey for wound healing found significant benefit in partial-thickness burns (faster healing than conventional dressings) and in some surgical and chronic wounds. UMF/MGO grading reflects the non-peroxide antibacterial activity (methylglyoxal content). Used topically; not for internal therapeutic use as a separate indication.

How it works

Methylglyoxal (the dihydroxyacetone-derived MGO) provides non-peroxide antibacterial activity active against MRSA, Pseudomonas and other wound pathogens. Low pH (3.5–4.5), high osmolarity, and bee-derived hydrogen peroxide contribute additional antimicrobial effect. Stimulates fibroblast proliferation and modulates inflammatory cytokines at the wound bed.

Expected onset · Wound progress within days; full healing of partial-thickness burns over 1–3 weeks

How to take

Dosage

Medical-grade UMF 10+/MGO 263+ honey applied to wound and covered with absorbent dressing, changed daily. For burns: apply directly under non-stick dressing after standard cooling.

Timing

Daily dressing changes until healed

On the label

'Medical-grade' honey with stated UMF (Unique Manuka Factor, ≥10+) or MGO (≥263 mg/kg). Manuka oil and manuka-honey-flavoured products are not equivalent.

Ideal for

Topical use in partial-thickness burns, contaminated minor wounds, post-surgical wound dressing under clinical care, and chronic ulcer adjunct.

Safety

Topical only. Internal use is not the indication. Sting on application possible (acidic pH). Diabetic patients: monitor for glycaemic effect if large areas (negligible at small wound dressings). Allergic reactions in those with bee/pollen allergy. Infants under 12 months: avoid even topically near the mouth (infant botulism risk from honey). Not for deep, infected or full-thickness wounds. These need standard clinical care.

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Evidence

At a glance

Cochrane 2015 SR (26 RCTs, n=3,011): honey shortened healing time in mild-moderate burns by ~5 days vs alternative dressings, and showed benefit in some post-operative and chronic wound contexts. Effect concentrated in partial-thickness burns and contaminated wounds; less benefit in clean surgical wounds.

Where to get it

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