Can Manuka Honey Help Eczema?

The term eczema refers to a variety of chronic, itchy skin inflammations. These conditions are often characterized by redness and dry skin patches, and can also become sites for invasive infections by microbial pathogens, such as bacteria, fungi or viruses. There are a variety of treatments for eczema. However, many people are finding relief by using skin care products that contain Manuka honey. Indigenous to New Zealand, Manuka honey is derived from floral nectar that contains very high antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

It was known many years ago that honey has antimicrobial properties. More recently, researchers noticed that honeys derived from different plants provided different levels of antibacterial activity. Honey inhibits infections in several ways. Its concentration of sugar and low water content inhibits bacterial growth, but it’s the generation of hydrogen peroxide using the enzyme glucose oxidase that makes Manuka honey more antiseptic than others. Researchers have found that hydrogen peroxide is created only when the honey is diluted, at which point a slow-release of this antiseptic is created, which fights infections without damaging skin tissue. Manuka Honey in skin creams actually enhances this naturally occurring benefit.

Eczema can be extremely difficult to treat. However, in clinical studies, there is evidence that Manuka Honey is more effective than even traditional medical treatments because of a second antibacterial component that works synergistically with the hydrogen peroxide-producing enzyme to reduce infections and inflammation. Antibacterial compounds found in Manuka honey such as methylglyoxal and UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) contributes to its efficacy. UMF ratings range from 1 to 25 where the number in the rating is the approximate equivalent to the same percentage strength of a standard antiseptic. Manuka Honey UMF 16 is considered to be ideal for cuts, grazes, burns, fungal infections and wounds.

No treatment for eczema and other forms of dermatitis work overnight. However, with regular application, Manuka Honey products can be extremely effective in reducing inflammation and itching, healing damage to skin, reducing scars, and promoting new cell growth. Honeymark's Anti-Itch Cream contains Manuka Honey UMF 16 and is effective in treating a variety of skin conditions including eczema, burns, poison ivy, poison oak inflammations, insect bites, early onset shingles and heat rash. In addition to Manuka Honey, this product contains other natural ingredients that have an outstanding ability to nourish, soothe and heal sensitive skin.

For more information or to purchase Honeymark's Anti-Itch Cream, call 1-866-427-7329 or visit www.HoneymarkProducts.com.