tions. All honeys exhibit some anti-
bacterial ability. New Zealand’s active
manuka honey, a monofloral (from
one plant) variety derived from the
nectar of the manuka bush (Leptosper-
mum scoparium), possesses greater
antibacterial characteristics than most
other varieties.
A review of 22 clinical trials pub-
lished in the International Journal of
Lower Extremity Wounds verified that
honey quickly heals existing wound
infections, protects against further
infection, reduces swelling, minimizes
scarring, helps remove infected and
dead tissue, and stimulates new tissue
growth. Research indicates that active
manuka honey, in particular, shows
promise for treatment of wounds
infected with the superbug, Methicil-
lin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus
(MRSA).
How does honey fight infection
and promote healing? Research sug-
gests that honey’s low water content
makes it hygroscopic, enabling it to
absorb moisture from tissue and bac-
teria. Its high sugar content makes it
difficult for microorganisms to grow.
Many monofloral honeys contain
an enzyme that produces low levels of
hydrogen peroxide, a natural antisep-
tic. Honey’s ability to keep the area
around a wound sealed, moist and
protected, promotes rapid healing and
helps prevent scars.
Honey at Home
Honey is a delicious sugar substitute
in oatmeal and tea, and a tasty treat
drizzled on bread or fruit. Plus, it eas-
ily incorporates into baked goods.
Use a tried and true recipe or
develop a new one, by replacing
the amount of sugar with an equal
amount of honey and reducing the
liquid in the recipe by 1/4 cup. In pas-
tries, lower the oven temperature by
25 degrees to prevent over-browning.
Honey’s only caveat is that it should
not be fed to infants younger than 12
months.
One of the oldest sweeteners
used by man, honey remains a peren-
nial favorite for good reason, with far
more to recommend it than just savor-
ing its sweetness.
Pr i n t e d o n re c y c l e d Pa P e r t o Pr o t e c t t h e en v i r o n m e n t
September 2008 21
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