In addition to sweetening tea, manuka honey has long been valued for its health benefits. Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, the substance may help heal wounds, reduce acne, improve oral health, and more. And now, a new study out of UCLA has pinpointed another exciting application: treating a common type of breast cancer.
Researchers conducted preclinical experiments and found that oral administration of manuka honey significantly reduced tumor growth by 84% in mice with estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells, or ER-positive breast cancer cell, without affecting healthy cells. ER-positive breast cancer means the tumors grow in response to the hormone estrogen, and it comprises around 80% of all hormone receptor-positive cases.
“The findings provide hope for development of a natural, less toxic alternative to traditional chemotherapy,” said first author Dr. Diana Marquez-Garban. “Although more research is necessary to fully understand the benefits of natural compounds in cancer therapy, this study establishes a strong foundation for further exploration in this area.”
How Honey (and other natural things) Help to Heal Wounds
We still use medical grade honey for wound care. No need to create new things when salt (Mesalt) and honey (Medihoney) do the trick.
I never thought of it that way. I'm allergic to bees, and carry an EpiPen. I fear them, but greatly respect them and appreciate their beauty. When one lands on me, I become very still, and very calm and I've never been stung since.
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