Manuka honey, a product of the Manuka tree native to New Zealand, has been attracting attention for its possible role in supporting cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy. This honey has unique properties that can fight bacteria and inflammation, as well as protect cells from oxidative damage.
In this article, we will discuss how Manuka honey may benefit cancer patients who undergo chemotherapy.
However, this article does not mean that Manuka honey can replace your doctor’s advice. You should always talk to your healthcare provider before using any complementary therapies. Some of the ways that Manuka honey may help cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy are:
Manuka Honey has Anti-inflammatory properties – Reducing oral mucositis:
Oral mucositis is a common side effect of chemotherapy that causes painful ulcers and inflammation in the mouth. A meta-analysis of 12 studies found that Manuka honey was effective in promoting wound healing and preventing oral mucositis in patients receiving chemotherapy (Shen et al., 2019).
-Manuka Honey May Help with Digestive Health – Enhancing chemopreventive effects:
Chemoprevention is the use of drugs or natural substances to prevent or delay the development of cancer. A study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology reported that Manuka honey enhanced the chemopreventive effect of 5-fluorouracil, a common chemotherapy drug, on human colon cancer cells by inducing oxidative stress and apoptosis (cell death), altering metabolic phenotypes and suppressing metastasis ability (Almasaudi et al., 2018).
Manuka Honey May Help with Skin Health – Inhibiting cancer growth:
Manuka honey may also have direct anti-cancer effects by inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. A study published in PLoS One demonstrated that Manuka honey inhibited the growth of breast, skin and colon cancer cells by activating a protein called caspase-3, which is involved in apoptosis (Jenkins et al., 2011).
These findings indicate that Manuka honey may have potential benefits for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, more research is needed to confirm the safety, efficacy and optimal dosage of Manuka honey for these patients.”
References:
- Shen, Y., Wang, M., Zhou, L., & Xu, L. (2019). Meta-analysis of the
efficacy and safety of honey dressing in the treatment of oral mucositis caused
by chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Journal of Chemotherapy, 31(6), 330-342. - Al Omairi, N. E., Al Habori, M., & Alhothaly, K. A. (2020). Manuka honey
for the prevention of chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis: A randomized
controlled trial. Journal of Oncology Pharmacy Practice, 1078155220976982.