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Manuka honey on eczema: Can Manuka honey treat eczema?

Can Manuka honey treat eczema?

People sometimes use Manuka honey as an alternative treatment for eczema. Some research suggests it may aid tissue healing and reduce infections.

This information comes from a 2018 literature review published in AIMS Microbiology.

There are an estimated 300 different types of honey, differentiated by the variety of flowers bees collect their nectar from. When they collect honey from the Manuka tree, or tea tree, they make Manuka honey. For centuries, the Indigenous people of New Zealand used Manuka tree leaves for their healing properties.

While all honey has antimicrobial properties, Manuka honey contains non-hydrogen peroxide. This gives it stronger antibacterial properties than other honey. Researchers have found that Manuka honey may help reduce microbial infections and aid in tissue healing.

Read more to learn about how Manuka honey may treat eczema, how it works, and the risks involved.

Eczema describes a group of conditions that make the skin inflamed, itchy, and sore. The symptoms of eczema include:

  • discolored, inflamed skin
  • itching
  • dry, sensitive skin
  • oozing and crusting
  • areas of swelling
  • leathery, rough patches of skin

Although there is no cure for eczema, it is very treatable.

Manuka honey may help treat eczema symptoms. Research suggests Manuka honey has a variety of properties that may alleviate eczema symptoms. These include antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Additionally, Manuka honey might help promote processes needed for tissue healing. This is because it can stimulate macrophages, which remove dead cells and encourage the production of new ones.

But more research is needed to determine whether Manuka honey is an effective treatment for eczema. Very few studies currently exist.

A small 2017 study investigated the effects of applying Manuka honey to atopic dermatitis lesions. The participants had improved lesions and reduced inflammation, but just 14 individuals participated.

Researchers of another small 2017 study showed that honey eardrops led to decreased symptoms of eczema. But their study did not use a control group.

If a person wants to use Manuka honey to treat eczema, they should use medical-grade honey. It is filtered and free of contaminants.

People primarily use medical-grade honey as a topical ointment and in dressings to treat surface wounds and burns. This is because it can promote wound healing.

Medical-grade Manuka honey stimulates an inflammatory response, creating a protective barrier between the skin and the environment. This can be beneficial for people with eczema.

Scientists are exploring the medicinal properties of Manuka honey as the worldwide resistance to antibiotics grows. Antimicrobial resistance may overtake cancer as the leading cause of death globally by 2050.

Although still in the early stages of research, honey has the potential to be an alternative treatment for antibiotic resistant infections.

Experts believe Manuka honey has increased antimicrobial activity against a variety of microorganisms. This is because Manuka honey contains natural chemicals that other kinds of honey do not, including methylglyoxal, dihydroxyacetone, and other active components.

Methylglyoxal

This natural chemical results in increased antimicrobial activity.

Dihydroxyacetone

Only found in the nectar of the Manuka flower, this chemical becomes methylglyoxal during the honey-making process.

Other active components

Manuka honey also contains other components with antimicrobial properties, including:

  • hydrogen peroxide
  • acidic pH level
  • bee-defensin-1
  • hyper-osmolality effect

To use Manuka honey as a treatment for eczema, a person should:

  • apply a thin layer of honey to the affected area in the evening with clean hands
  • cover the area using a bandage or gauze
  • leave the dressing in place overnight
  • gently remove the dressing and clean the area in the morning

People should note that studies on Manuka honey’s medical benefits are largely in vitro. This means they are done in a controlled setting, such as a petri dish or test tube. Therefore, Manuka honey may not have the same results when used by individuals in real life.

One limiting factor of Manuka honey is its price. Because it can be expensive, people should ensure they are purchasing genuine medical-grade Manuka honey.

To do this, a person should look for the Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) mark on the product. This indicates the honey comes from the producers, beekeepers, and exporters licensed by the UMF Honey Association.

People should also look for a number next to the UMF mark. This indicates the number of key markers for Manuka honey, such as methylglyoxal and dihydroxyacetone. A UMF of 10 or above is best.

Home remedies for eczema include:

Apple cider vinegar

People use this popular home remedy for many conditions, including skin disorders such as eczema.

According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), apple cider vinegar may help with eczema. It does this by fighting bacteria and balancing the acid levels of the skin. But there is no research to confirm that it can treat eczema.

The NEA advises caution as the vinegar may damage soft tissue.

Coconut oil

This thick oil can moisturize dry skin, which may help ease eczema symptoms. It may also reduce inflammation.

Tea tree oil

Extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree, tea tree oil has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. These may help reduce the symptoms of eczema.

Colloidal oatmeal

A person may ease symptoms of eczema by bathing with colloidal oatmeal or using colloidal oatmeal lotion.

Its potential skin-healing properties come from boiled and ground oats. It is also an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties.

A person should contact a doctor about their eczema if:

  • they have tried over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, home remedies, or both, without success
  • their lesions appear infected
  • their lesions cover a large area of their body
  • the eczema is disruptive to their lives

Manuka honey may help treat eczema symptoms, but more research is needed to confirm this.

Medical-grade Manuka honey has antimicrobial properties and may promote skin healing. This may be beneficial for treating eczema.

Other home remedies for eczema include apple cider vinegar, coconut oil, tea tree oil, and colloidal oatmeal. More research is needed to determine if these treatments are effective.

A person should contact a doctor if their eczema is severe, or if OTC or home remedies are not working.

Potential benefits and how to use it

The antimicrobial properties of honey may be effective in treating eczema and preventing skin infections. However, people should only use medical grade honey.

Honey has a long history of therapeutic use as an antibacterial agent, and researchers have investigated its potential for treating various skin conditions.

This article explores the different types of eczema and what causes them. It also discusses research about using honey for eczema and potential safety concerns. Additionally, it outlines the standard treatments for eczema and answers some frequently asked questions.

Share on PinterestDesign by TK; Photography by Tanja Ivanova/Getty Image & Ed Peeters/EyeEm/Getty Images

Eczema refers to a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause irritated and itchy skin.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) explains that there are different types of eczema with varying causes.

Atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis, which often begins in childhood, is the most common type of eczema. It is a complex disease, and scientists think that the immune system, environmental triggers, and family history all play a part in its development.

People with this type of eczema often develop an itchy rash or patches of dry skin.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis occurs when the skin comes into contact with something that irritates it. Common irritants include detergents and bleach, chemicals, and plants.

The symptoms may include itchy skin, a rash, and blisters.

Dyshidrotic eczema

This eczema occurs on the hands or feet and causes tiny, itchy, fluid-filled blisters.

People with dyshidrotic eczema may be hypersensitive to certain medications, personal care products, or metals. They may experience flare-ups that alternate with periods of remission.

Hand eczema

Occurring on the hands, this type of eczema causes dry, chapped skin that may crack or bleed. People who have wet hands throughout the day or work with chemicals may develop hand eczema. Also, chefs may develop hand eczema due to a reaction to the food they prepare.

Neurodermatitis

Neurodermatitis is a type of eczema that is limited to one or two patches of skin and may occur due to a mind-body reaction, meaning that intense emotions trigger the physical symptoms. Another name for the condition is lichen simplex chronicus.

People with neurodermatitis tend to scratch the itchy area repeatedly, especially during sleep. Over time, the repeated scratching causes the skin to become thicker.

Nummular eczema

Nummular eczema causes itchy, raised, round-to-oval spots to appear on a person’s skin. The spots grow together to form large, slightly raised patches.

The spots may appear on the hands, forearms, or lower legs, with stress, extremely dry skin, and hypersensitivity among the possible triggers.

Nummular eczema is similar in appearance to ringworm and psoriasis, so a person should consult a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis.

Stasis dermatitis

Stasis dermatitis is a common type of eczema that develops in people with poor circulation, usually in the lower legs. The condition causes swelling, bulging veins, and discolored skin.

The skin may itch, harden, and cause pain.

Some research suggests that the medicinal properties of honey may benefit people with eczema.

For example, a small 2017 study found that atopic dermatitis lesions significantly improved after applying manuka honey for 7 consecutive days.

The researchers suggest that honey has antibacterial properties that may help counteract skin inflammation. They explain that Staphylococcus aureus bacteria colonize the skin of 70–90% of people with atopic dermatitis. S. aureus produces inflammatory toxins, which may lead to infections.

A 2016 review indicates that scientists worldwide have recognized honey for its therapeutic healing properties for the skin, particularly for wounds and burns. In addition, honey may promote tissue repair, modulate the immune system, and have antimicrobial properties.

The review suggests that honey may help treat contact dermatitis and atopic dermatitis. However, scientists need to conduct further research into the effects of honey on other types of eczema and other skin diseases.

According to research, manuka honey is the type of honey that has the most beneficial medicinal properties. Manuka honey comes from Leptospermum, or the manuka tree, and contains an antimicrobial substance called methylglyoxal, which is not present in other kinds of honey.

Medical grade honey uses manuka, and manufacturers treat it to remove contaminants. The same research indicates that both manuka and medical grade honey are effective against various microorganisms.

An older review noted that doctors might use honey to promote wound healing. They may apply medical grade honey from a tube to the skin before adding a dressing. Alternatively, they might use a honey dressing.

In a 2017 study, researchers applied medical grade honey to the skin and covered it with gauze overnight to treat atopic dermatitis. Over 7 days, the participants washed the honey off each morning and reapplied it at night.

The previous review advises that a person should not apply unregulated, unlicensed honey to wounds because it may contain pesticides and harmful bacteria.

A person should seek advice from a healthcare professional about how to use medical grade honey for eczema and whether it may be helpful for them.

People should be aware that although honey allergies are rare, there have been case reports in which anaphylaxis resulted from honey. In addition, research indicates that people allergic to bee venom may react to honey, and those with diabetes should monitor their blood glucose if applying honey to the skin.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life threatening. The symptoms develop suddenly and include:

  • hives
  • swelling of the face or mouth
  • wheezing
  • fast, shallow breathing
  • a fast heart rate
  • clammy skin
  • anxiety or confusion
  • dizziness
  • vomiting
  • blue or white lips
  • fainting or loss of consciousness

If someone has these symptoms:

  1. Check whether they are carrying an epinephrine pen. If they are, follow the instructions on the side of the pen to use it.
  2. Dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department.
  3. Lay the person down from a standing position. If they have vomited, turn them onto their side.
  4. Stay with them until the emergency services arrive.

Some people may need more than one epinephrine injection. If the symptoms do not improve in 5–15 minutes, or they come back, use a second pen if the person has one.

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The AAD advises that a skin care plan for eczema may include bathing, applying moisturizer, and being gentle with the skin.

In addition, the AAD notes that doctors or dermatologists may prescribe the following topical treatments for atopic dermatitis:

  • corticosteroids
  • crisaborole ointment
  • pimecrolimus cream or tacrolimus ointment
  • coal tar

Dermatologists may also recommend phototherapy, which uses UV light to treat atopic dermatitis. However, due to the risk of skin cancer, a healthcare professional will carry this out in a controlled environment. People should not attempt to treat themselves with tanning beds.

If someone with eczema develops an infection, the AAD explains that a doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antivirals, or antifungal medications.

Below are the answers to some common questions about eczema and honey.

Can honey cure eczema?

Some studies suggest that medical grade honey may relieve the symptoms of eczema. However, scientists do not fully understand how honey may benefit skin conditions, and further research is necessary.

Is honey good for inflamed skin?

Research indicates that honey has anti-inflammatory properties and may benefit inflamed skin. However, honey not of medical grade may be contaminated with pesticides or bacteria and could worsen symptoms.

Are honey and lemon good for eczema?

No research concludes that ingesting honey and lemon helps eczema. Instead, most studies use honey as a topical treatment for the skin.

Honey has antimicrobial properties that may reduce inflammation in the skin. However, scientists are still researching its effects on eczema, and most studies use medical grade honey.

A person should speak with a dermatologist if they would like to try medical grade honey for eczema. However, they should be aware that regular honey may contain contaminants that might worsen the symptoms. Additionally, in some people with allergies or diabetes, honey may cause adverse effects.

Honey for Eczema: Benefits, Research and Applications

od Jakub

Eczema is a skin condition that causes areas of the skin to become inflamed, red, and itchy. Other symptoms may also occur, such as peeling, burning, and blisters.

The itching or tingling that can occur with eczema can be uncomfortable. In addition, the skin may thicken due to inflammation and repeated scratching.

Eczema is often treated with moisturizers and topical anti-inflammatory drugs. Alternative therapies are also being explored. One of them is honey. Read on to talk about honey, its potential benefits for eczema, and more.

contents

About honey as medicine

Honey is a natural product produced by bees from flower nectar. It is estimated that there are approximately 300 different types of honey. This is due to the variety of different flowers from which the bees can obtain nectar.

Honey can contain up to 200 different substances of which sugars are the best known. It also contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

Throughout history, honey has been used in foods, cosmetics and medicines. Some examples of conditions where honey is used to treat include:

  • skin diseases such as eczema, wounds and burns
  • sore throat
  • respiratory diseases such as coughs, colds and asthma
  • digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
  • artritis 90 024
  • humor

Does honey help with eczema?

It could be. Researchers have noticed a variety of characteristics of honey that can be effective in treating skin conditions such as eczema. These include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

So far, there have been only a few scientific studies on honey for eczema. Let’s see what some of them have to say.

Local honey for eczema

In the 2014 system, a small pilot study examined 15 participants with eczematous lesions on both sides of the body. They applied canoe honey on one side and control cream on the other side every night for 2 weeks. No differences were found between them in the severity of eczema.

The second small study in 2017 examined 14 participants with eczematous lesions on both sides of the body. They applied manuka honey on one side every night for 1 week. The other side was left unfinished.

Researchers noticed that eczema improved after treatment with manuka honey. They also noticed less inflammation.

Honey drops

A small 2017 study of 15 participants evaluated the effectiveness of honey drops on ear eczema. The drops were applied three times a day for two weeks.

Researchers have noticed that drops of honey reduce the symptoms of eczema. However, this study did not use a control group.

How can honey be used for eczema?

If you choose to use honey for eczema, be sure to use honey. medical, such as manuka honey. Medical grade honey is processed and filtered to ensure there are no potential impurities.

Proceed as follows:

  • In the evening, with clean hands, apply a thin layer of honey to the affected area.
  • Carefully cover the area with gauze or bandage.
  • Leave topping overnight.
  • In the morning, carefully remove the topping and clean the area.
  • Is it safe?

    Some people may have an allergic reaction to honey. It may be more common in people with allergies to pollen or bee stings. If after topical application you experience discomfort or increase redness, swelling or itching, discontinue use.

    There was also a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. noted in response to honey. If you or someone else is experiencing the following symptoms, seek emergency medical attention:

    • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
    • wheezing
    • swelling of the throat, USTA, Or do
    • skin rash
    • abdominal cramps
    • nausea or vomiting 900 24
    • dizziness
    • unconsciousness

    In addition, honey should not be given orally to children under 1 year of age. This is associated with the risk of infant botulism.

    When to see a doctor for eczema

    If you have tried home remedies such as honey without success, see your doctor. I can work with you and recommend other treatment options.

    Other situations requiring a visit to a doctor include eczema injuries that:

    • involve most of the body
    • they look infected, with symptoms such as pus or red spots
    • they distract you from daily activities

    Types and symptoms of eczema s

    There are several different types of eczema that share common symptoms such as itching, redness and scaling Types of eczema include:

    • Atopic dermatitis: often begins in childhood and comes and goes periodically. It is often associated with allergic conditions such as hay fever and asthma.
    • Contact dermatitis: occurs when an irritant or allergen comes into contact with the skin.
    • Dyshidrotic eczema: small, deep blisters form, usually on the arms or legs. Itching and burning may also occur.
    • Hand eczema: limited to hands. This can be caused by allergies, repeated handwashing, or exposure to strong soaps and detergents.
    • Neurodermatitis: begins with itching, which can cause frequent scratching. Sometimes itching, red spots, and thickening of the skin also occur in the affected area.
    • Numerical eczema: Causes itchy patches the size of a coin, usually on the trunk, arms, arms and legs.
    • Stasis dermatitis: May occur in people with poor circulation. Most often on the lower extremities.

    Knowing what type of eczema you have can help you take care of your skin and symptoms. It can also help you communicate more effectively with your healthcare providers.

    Excursion

    Honey is being tested as a potential cure for eczema. Research to date suggests that using honey for eczema may provide some benefit. However, more research is needed to determine the overall effectiveness of honey.

    If you plan to use honey to treat eczema, buy a honey remedy. Applying honey to the skin can cause an allergic reaction in some people. If you experience a reaction after using honey, stop using it.

    If you find that your symptoms do not improve after drinking honey, see your doctor. They may recommend other treatments that may help with your symptoms.

    Honey for eczema: benefits, research and applications

    od Jakub

    Eczema is a skin disease in which areas of the skin become inflamed, red and itchy. Other symptoms may also occur, such as peeling, burning, and blisters.

    The itching or tingling that can occur with eczema can be uncomfortable. In addition, the skin may thicken due to inflammation and repeated scratching.

    Eczema is often treated with moisturizers and topical anti-inflammatory drugs. Alternative therapies are also being explored. One of them is honey. Read on to talk about honey, its potential benefits for eczema, and more.

    contents

    About honey as medicine

    Honey is a natural product produced by bees from flower nectar. It is estimated that there are approximately 300 different types of honey. This is due to the variety of different flowers from which the bees can obtain nectar.

    Honey can contain up to 200 different substances of which sugars are the best known. It also contains vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

    Throughout history, honey has been used in foods, cosmetics and medicines. Some examples of conditions where honey is used to treat include:

    • skin diseases such as eczema, wounds and burns
    • sore throat
    • respiratory diseases such as coughs, colds and asthma
    • digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
    • artritis 90 024
    • humor

    Does honey help with eczema?

    It could be. Researchers have noticed a variety of characteristics of honey that can be effective in treating skin conditions such as eczema. These include anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

    So far, there have been only a few scientific studies on honey for eczema. Let’s see what some of them have to say.

    Local honey for eczema

    In the 2014 system, a small pilot study examined 15 participants with eczematous lesions on both sides of the body. They applied canoe honey on one side and control cream on the other side every night for 2 weeks. No differences were found between them in the severity of eczema.

    The second small study in 2017 examined 14 participants with eczematous lesions on both sides of the body. They applied manuka honey on one side every night for 1 week. The other side was left unfinished.

    Researchers noticed that eczema improved after treatment with manuka honey. They also noticed less inflammation.

    Honey drops

    A small 2017 study of 15 participants evaluated the effectiveness of honey drops on ear eczema. The drops were applied three times a day for two weeks.

    Researchers have noticed that drops of honey reduce the symptoms of eczema. However, this study did not use a control group.

    How can honey be used for eczema?

    If you choose to use honey for eczema, be sure to use honey. medical, such as manuka honey. Medical grade honey is processed and filtered to ensure there are no potential impurities.

    Proceed as follows:

  • In the evening, with clean hands, apply a thin layer of honey to the affected area.
  • Carefully cover the area with gauze or bandage.
  • Leave topping overnight.
  • In the morning, carefully remove the topping and clean the area.
  • Is it safe?

    Some people may have an allergic reaction to honey. It may be more common in people with allergies to pollen or bee stings. If after topical application you experience discomfort or increase redness, swelling or itching, discontinue use.

    There was also a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. noted in response to honey. If you or someone else is experiencing the following symptoms, seek emergency medical attention:

    • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
    • wheezing
    • swelling of the throat, USTA, Or do
    • skin rash
    • abdominal cramps
    • nausea or vomiting 900 24
    • dizziness
    • unconsciousness

    In addition, honey should not be given orally to children under 1 year of age. This is associated with the risk of infant botulism.

    When to see a doctor for eczema

    If you have tried home remedies such as honey without success, see your doctor. I can work with you and recommend other treatment options.

    Other situations requiring a visit to a doctor include eczema injuries that:

    • involve most of the body
    • they look infected, with symptoms such as pus or red spots
    • they distract you from daily activities

    Types and symptoms of eczema s

    There are several different types of eczema that share common symptoms such as itching, redness and scaling Types of eczema include:

    • Atopic dermatitis: often begins in childhood and comes and goes periodically. It is often associated with allergic conditions such as hay fever and asthma.
    • Contact dermatitis: occurs when an irritant or allergen comes into contact with the skin.
    • Dyshidrotic eczema: small, deep blisters form, usually on the arms or legs. Itching and burning may also occur.
    • Hand eczema: limited to hands. This can be caused by allergies, repeated handwashing, or exposure to strong soaps and detergents.
    • Neurodermatitis: begins with itching, which can cause frequent scratching. Sometimes itching, red spots, and thickening of the skin also occur in the affected area.
    • Numerical eczema: Causes itchy patches the size of a coin, usually on the trunk, arms, arms and legs.
    • Stasis dermatitis: May occur in people with poor circulation. Most often on the lower extremities.

    Knowing what type of eczema you have can help you take care of your skin and symptoms. It can also help you communicate more effectively with your healthcare providers.