Honey Can Help Heal Burns Faster

By Staff
Honey Can Help Heal Burns Faster

Honey has been found to be better at aiding burn recovery than some standard dressing treatments.
A new study has found that treating a burn with honey from the kitchen cupboard may promote faster healing than a surgical dressing.

A lead researcher Dr Andrew Jull, of the Clinical Trials Research Unit at the University of Auckland, New Zealand siad, "We're treating these results with caution, but it looks like honey can help speed up healing in some burns."

The review brings together data from 19 clinical trials involving 2554 patients with a range of different wounds. Honey was more effective in reducing healing time compared to some gauze and film dressings that are often used to treat moderate burns.

However, the researchers were unable to show any clear benefits for the healing of grazes, lacerations, surgical wounds and leg ulcers.

The researchers don't advise using honey to treat other types of wounds.

"Health services should invest in treatments that have been shown to work," says Dr Jull.

"But, we will keep monitoring new research to try and establish the effect of honey," the expert added.

Honey was revered by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians as a medicinal agent for burns and sores.
The mechanism of action is unclear. While honey may help the body remove dead tissue and provide a favorable environment for the growth of new, healthy tissue, current interest in medicinal honey focuses largely on its antibacterial effects.

Scientists are also working on ways to use honey in the fight against superbug MRSA.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.