Indian Express, June 28, 2014
Honey is more than just a natural sweetener; it is known to have medicinal properties. In general, most honeys possess anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and prebiotic properties. Other benefits that have been attributed to honey include anti-tumour, anti-mutagenic and anti-viral properties depending on the nutritional composition of the honey consumed. It is well known for its wound healing properties and as a gastro-intestinal remedy. Several types of honeys are available, each with distinct properties.
The broad spectrum of anti-bacterial activity of honey is attributed to various factors including its high sugar concentration (80 per cent sugar) and hydrogen peroxide. Non-peroxide factors include methylglyoxal (MGO), and its low pH value. Hydrogen peroxide and its high osmolarity because of high sugar concentration are the well-characterised anti-bacterial factors.
Certain honeys from specific plants are more effective than others. Manuka honey that comes from New Zealand Manuka bush is one such example. It has been found to be an effective therapy for digestive complaints ranging from acid reflux, gastritis, diarrhoea, ulcers, H.pylori to fungal infections. It has been used in upper respiratory infections including chronic sinusitis, rhinitis and allergic symptoms…