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Manuka honey
Manuka honey exerts antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects through its high methylglyoxal content and other bioactive compounds, promoting wound healing and tissue repair.
Manuka honey exerts antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects through its high methylglyoxal content and other bioactive compounds, promoting wound healing and tissue repair. Used for Wound healing and management, Burn treatment, Ulcer management.
At a glance
| Generic name | Manuka honey |
|---|---|
| Also known as | optimel eyedrops |
| Sponsor | University of Zagreb |
| Drug class | Natural product / Topical antimicrobial agent |
| Modality | Biologic |
| Therapeutic area | Dermatology / Wound Care |
| Phase | FDA-approved |
Mechanism of action
Manuka honey, derived from the nectar of Leptospermum scoparium flowers in New Zealand, contains elevated levels of methylglyoxal (MGO) and unique compounds like leptosperin that provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Beyond antimicrobial effects, it modulates inflammatory pathways, stimulates immune cell activity, and promotes angiogenesis and collagen deposition, facilitating tissue regeneration and wound closure.
Approved indications
- Wound healing and management (acute and chronic wounds)
- Burn treatment
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Antimicrobial dressing for infected wounds
Common side effects
- Local irritation or stinging at wound site
- Allergic reaction (rare, in honey-sensitive individuals)
Key clinical trials
- Therapeutic Effect of Manuka Honey Oral Rinse in Periodontitis Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis (PHASE3)
- Role of Manuka Honey in Lowering Pain and Boosting Healing After Gum Graft Surgery. (PHASE2)
- HONEY for the Treatment of POst-Tonsillectomy Pain (NA)
- Wound Dressing Patch with Kelulut Honey-Infused Alginate (Tri-Gnate Alginate) for Effective Wound Care Management (EARLY_PHASE1)
- An Investigation of the Effects of a Royal Jelly and Bee Venom-Derived Skin Cream on Skin Health and Signs of Aging (NA)
- An Investigation of the Effects of a Royal Jelly and Bee Venom-Derived Skin Serum on Skin Health and Signs of Aging (NA)
- An Investigation of the Effects of a Skin Serum Containing Propolis on Skin Health and Appearance (NA)
- Honey or Olive Oil for Treating Oral Mucositis in Children and Adults With Leukemia Receiving Intensive Chemotherapy (PHASE1)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |