There is a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms, mainly bacteria, that cause digestive disorders. One of the most famous is the irritable bowel syndrome. Among its most common symptoms are irregular bowel movements, abdominal pain, constipation or, quite the opposite, diarrhea.
This disease is related to an imbalance at the bacteriological level in the intestine, where almost 80% of the bacteria (good and bad) that we have in our body live.
Scientific research has found data that regular consumption of manuka honey can reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory fecto, so good results have recently been found in animals. [See study]
In turn, we return to comment on the antimicrobial effect of honey obtained from manuka, specifically against strains of Clostridium difficile, causing diarrheal processes and intestinal infections.
Although this infection is treated with antibiotics, this food can also help us, without notable adverse effects, in collaboration with modern medicines.
However, it should be noted that studies have not yet been carried out directly on humans and all the information has been obtained in laboratories on rats, so it is necessary to address with more research the use of this natural food.
One of the most famous uses of honey obtained from the manuka plant was to improve the healing of wounds, burns, sores or boils.
Since ancient times, honey has been used to treat wounds, burns, sores and boils. In fact, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved in 2007 the use of manuka honey as an option for treating wounds. [See study]
Its benefits are related to the antioxidant effect and antimicrobial activity, especially for its methylglyoxal content. In turn, it creates a protective barrier that prevents the entry of pathogenic microorganisms that cause skin infections.
Honey offers antibacterial and antioxidant properties, while maintaining a moist wound environment and a protective barrier that prevents microbial infections in the wound.
In fact, we can find different studies that involve a good tissue regeneration and even the reduction of pain when suffering burns and applying manuka in the form of honey. [See studys]
This has led to dressings and bandages impregnated with this honey existing on the market, and they have been refuted in several investigations. If you see dressings with manuka honey in the pharmacy, do not hesitate to use them as they will help heal and reduce the size of the wound in 88% of cases.
However, more studies are needed to provide detailed information on the active components of Manuka honey and its potential efficacy in different diseases.
Manuka-based honey can improve oral hygiene
Oral diseases are at the time of day, either because of eating habits and increased sugar intake or because we have less time dedicated to oral hygiene.
There are different oils and medicinal extracts that are used against tooth decay and plaque formation. Therefore, reducing the bacterial population in the mouth is essential to maintain proper hygiene.
Several studies have linked manuka honey to reducing the presence of oral bacteria that are linked to the formation of dental plaque, cavities, and gum inflammation.
In these investigations, a notable drop in bacteria such as
Specifically, research has shown that manuka honey with high antibacterial activity is effective in inhibiting the growth of harmful oral bacteria such as Porphyromonas gingivalis and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans.
Currently, there are several ways to treat these bacteria from manuka honey. There are candies, chewing gum and pharmaceuticals to eliminate gingivitis and dental plaque.
Therefore, it is an interesting alternative when we do not have the option to brush our teeth.
Improves skin properties
Although we have already commented that its action antIbacterial was very important to help heal wounds and avoid infections, it has also been shown to have potential against acne.
There are cosmetic products and medicines formulated with manuka honey as the main ingredient, especially when combined with acidic substances. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties, so it can improve acne symptoms. [See information adicional]
Soothe throat irritations
It has always been linked to the consumption of honey of all kinds to help soothe throat irritation. Actually, not all types of honey are effective, and it would really make sense to use only those that provide a calming, anti-inflammatory effect or act against the development of bacteria.
Others are used for their ability to lubricate the throat and create a protective effect.
The honey of the manuka plant has a calming effect and has an antimicrobial effect, to prevent irritation from aggravating to infection, something that can be quite frequent in flu processes or sudden changes in temperature.
Consuming manuka honey when we suffer from throat irritation has been shown to reduce population levels of Streptococcus mutans, causing several respiratory infections. [See study]
May prevent gastric ulcers
Eating habits have increased the problems of stomach ulcers suffered by Western countries. These ulcers are formed by sores that cause losing the stomach lining that protects from acids, so it causes stomach pain, feeling bloated and nauseated.
The main bacteria responsible for gastric ulcer is thought to be Helicobacter pylori.
Manuka honey can prevent the formation of ulcers by its effect against the development of this bacteria, but it has no healing effects if we already have the gastric ulcer.
The problem is that these tests have only been described in animals or in the laboratory (test-tube studies), so it is not known with certainty if this bacterium can be affected in humans. In fact, there are conflicting reports of manuka and this bacterium, so more scientific information is needed.
May treat symptoms of cystic fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that causes damage to the lungs and can affect the digestive system.
This disease produces a large amount of mucus, and can clog airways and make it difficult to breathe. This problem can lead to more serious infections, in all cases related to bacteria type Burkholderia Spp and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Scientifically, evidence has been found that manuka honey helps reduce the presence of bacteria that cause respiratory infections.
This shows that manuka can be used in collaboration with current antibiotics to achieve better effects in the short and medium term against this disease.
Safety and Side Effects of Manuka Honey
Manuka honey is a widely consumed product with great health benefits. Only in certain people sensitive to the ingredients of common honey can suffer allergies or mild side effects.
- People allergic to honey: you should always avoid the consumption of manuka and any other honey where bees have intervened.
- Diabetics: all types of honey contain a lot of sugar from the nectar of the flowers, so they should avoid their consumption. Likewise, other people should take it in moderation.
- Infants and toddlers: it is always recommended to avoid the consumption of any honey due to the risk of infant botulism.
