A unique type of honey might help health professionals combat the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, according to research conducted by a group of Australian scientists. With drug-resistant infections on the rise, this new buzz about honey is cause for hope.
The studies
Recent studies have looked specifically at manuka honey from New Zealand. Not only does New Zealand manuka honey have powerful antibacterial properties, superbugs also don’t seem to build up a resistance to the honey in the same way that they do with many conventional antibiotic treatments. While New Zealand’s manuka honey is already well-known for its antibacterial properties, a new study from Dr. Nural Cokcetin of the University of Technology in Sydney has found that Australian manuka honey is just as effective as the New Zealand variety.
What does this mean?
The swift and worrisome evolution of antibiotic-resistant superbugs is classified as a global health crisis by the United Nations General Assembly. But because the bacteria in these superbugs have not learned how to resist manuka honey, we may soon have access to more effective treatments and cures.
The recent revelation regarding the strength of Australia’s manuka honey is particularly welcome news. Not only does it expand the supply of this remarkable honey, but New Zealand honeybees have been plagued with a parasite that has not yet affected the Australian honey. Furthermore, manuka honey’s potentially life-saving properties could also be a catalyst for stronger interest in bee protection efforts.
At Marshall’s Honey, we’re committed to maintaining sustainable bee farming practices and offer only the finest organic gourmet honeys in the San Francisco Bay area. Come visit our bee farm in person or check out our products online today!