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Magdas TM, David M, Hategan AR, Filip GA, Magdas DA. Geographical Origin Authentication-A Mandatory Step in the Efficient Involvement of Honey in Medical Treatment. Foods 2024; 13:532. [PMID: 38397509 PMCID: PMC10887874 DOI: 10.3390/foods13040532] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, in people's perceptions, the return to roots in all aspects of life is an increasing temptation. This tendency has also been observed in the medical field, despite the availability of high-level medical services with many years of research, expertise, and trials. Equilibrium is found in the combination of the two tendencies through the inclusion of the scientific experience with the advantages and benefits provided by nature. It is well accepted that the nutritional and medicinal properties of honey are closely related to the botanical origin of the plants at the base of honey production. Despite this, people perceive honey as a natural and subsequently a simple product from a chemical point of view. In reality, honey is a very complex matrix containing more than 200 compounds having a high degree of compositional variability as function of its origin. Therefore, when discussing the nutritional and medicinal properties of honey, the importance of the geographical origin and its link to the honey's composition, due to potential emerging contaminants such as Rare Earth Elements (REEs), should also be considered. This work offers a critical view on the use of honey as a natural superfood, in a direct relationship with its botanical and geographical origin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tudor Mihai Magdas
- Department of Anatomy, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (T.M.M.); (G.A.F.)
| | - Maria David
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat Street, 400293 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.D.); (A.R.H.)
| | - Ariana Raluca Hategan
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat Street, 400293 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.D.); (A.R.H.)
| | - Gabriela Adriana Filip
- Department of Anatomy, “Iuliu Hatieganu” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 3-5 Clinicilor Street, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (T.M.M.); (G.A.F.)
| | - Dana Alina Magdas
- National Institute for Research and Development of Isotopic and Molecular Technologies, 67-103 Donat Street, 400293 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (M.D.); (A.R.H.)
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Palma-Morales M, Huertas JR, Rodríguez-Pérez C. A Comprehensive Review of the Effect of Honey on Human Health. Nutrients 2023; 15:3056. [PMID: 37447382 DOI: 10.3390/nu15133056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey is a nutritious, healthy, and natural food, to which antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties have been attributed, mainly due to its content of phenolic compounds. The aim of this review is to analyze the available evidence of the effect of honey on humans. Forty-eight clinical trials published between 1985 and 2022 were analyzed, with a total of 3655 subjects. More beneficial effects of honey intake than no or negative effects on different cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors, glucose tolerance, mucositis caused by chemo-radiotherapy, cough in children and wound healing, among others have been observed. Although the number of studies conducted to date is limited and the different investigations are not standardized, beneficial effects of honey intake have been observed, especially when its intake replaces the intake of other sweeteners. In addition, honey could be a safe adjuvant to be administered alongside drugs used for certain diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Palma-Morales
- Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INYTA) 'José Mataix', University of Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Cartuja Campus, 18011 Granada, Spain
| | - Jesús R Huertas
- Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INYTA) 'José Mataix', University of Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Primary Care Promotion of Maternal, Child and Women's Health for Prevention of Adult Chronic Diseases Network (RD21/0012/0008), Institute of Health Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Celia Rodríguez-Pérez
- Biomedical Research Centre, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INYTA) 'José Mataix', University of Granada, Avda. del Conocimiento s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, Cartuja Campus, 18011 Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, 18012 Granada, Spain
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Patouna A, Sevdalis P, Papanikolaou K, Kourti M, Skaperda Z, Jamurtas AZ, Kouretas D. Evaluation of the effects of a honey‑based gel on blood redox biomarkers and the physiological profile of healthy adults: A pilot study. Biomed Rep 2023; 18:32. [PMID: 37034574 PMCID: PMC10074021 DOI: 10.3892/br.2023.1614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey is a natural product derived from the insect Apis mellifera. Approximately 200 different compounds are included, making it a complex mixture with antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activity. Flavonoids and phenolic acids contained in honey are associated with its antioxidant capacity via mechanisms such as hydrogen donation and metallic ion chelation, although the exact antioxidant mechanism remains unknown. The aim of the present study was to: i) Estimate the antioxidant activity of a natural honey-based gel, commercially available under the trade name of 'Bear Strength honey gel' and to ii) assess the physiological and redox adjustments obtained after its consumption in healthy adult participants. For this purpose, 20 healthy participants (10 men and 10 women) included in their habitual diet 70 g of the honey-based gel for 14 days in a row. Pre- and post-consumption, physiological [weight, height, body mass index, body fat, waist-to-hip ratio, resting heart rate and blood pressure (BP)] and hematological (complete blood count) data were evaluated, along with the levels of five redox biomarkers: Glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), protein carbonyls (PCARBS) and thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARS). The results revealed that the honey-based gel decreased the diastolic and mean arterial BP, especially in women, without affecting the rest of the physiological and hematological variables. Regarding the changes observed in antioxidant status variables, GSH was increased both in the total and women's group, while TAC was increased in all groups post-consumption. No changes were detected in the levels of CAT. Regarding oxidative stress, a decrease in the levels of TBARS in the total and women's group, was observed. PCARBS levels were decreased post-consumption only in the women's group. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the potential positive effects of a honey-based gel on BP and redox status of healthy adults in a sex-specific manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia Patouna
- Department of Biochemistry-Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Panagiotis Sevdalis
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 17237 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Maria Kourti
- Department of Biochemistry-Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Zoi Skaperda
- Department of Biochemistry-Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Athanasios Z. Jamurtas
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, 42100 Trikala, Greece
| | - Demetrios Kouretas
- Department of Biochemistry-Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larissa, Greece
- Correspondence to: Professor Demetrios Kouretas, Department of Biochemistry-Biotechnology, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Viopolis, Mezourlo, 41500 Larissa, Greece
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Al-Kafaween MA, Alwahsh M, Mohd Hilmi AB, Abulebdah DH. Physicochemical Characteristics and Bioactive Compounds of Different Types of Honey and Their Biological and Therapeutic Properties: A Comprehensive Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12020337. [PMID: 36830249 PMCID: PMC9952753 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12020337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Honey is considered to be a functional food with health-promoting properties. However, its potential health benefits can be affected by individual composition that varies between honey types. Although studies describing the health benefits of Tualang honey (TH), Kelulut honey (KH), and Sidr honey (SH) are scarce, these honey types showed a comparable therapeutic efficacy to Manuka honey (MH). The purpose of this review is to characterise the physicochemical, biological, and therapeutic properties of TH, KH, and SH. Findings showed that these honeys have antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antiobesity, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties and effects on the cardiovascular system, nervous system, and respiratory system. The physicochemical characteristics of TH, KH, and SH were compared with MH and discussed, and results showed that they have high-quality contents and excellent biological activity sources. Flavonoids and polyphenols, which act as antioxidants, are two main bioactive molecules present in honey. The activity of honey depends on the type of bee, sources of nectar, and the geographic region where the bees are established. In conclusion, TH, KH, and SH could be considered as natural therapeutic agents for various medicinal purposes compared with MH. Therefore, TH, KH, and SH have a great potential to be developed for modern medicinal use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad A. Al-Kafaween
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan
- Correspondence: (M.A.A.-K.); (A.B.M.H.); Tel.: +6-099988548 (A.B.M.H.); Fax: +6-096687896 (A.B.M.H.)
| | - Mohammad Alwahsh
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan
| | - Abu Bakar Mohd Hilmi
- Department of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Nerus 21300, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (M.A.A.-K.); (A.B.M.H.); Tel.: +6-099988548 (A.B.M.H.); Fax: +6-096687896 (A.B.M.H.)
| | - Dina H. Abulebdah
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Al-Zaytoonah University of Jordan, Amman 11733, Jordan
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Nikhat S, Fazil M. History, phytochemistry, experimental pharmacology and clinical uses of honey: A comprehensive review with special reference to Unani medicine. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 282:114614. [PMID: 34508800 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 09/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Honey is one of the most popular functional foods, speculated to be in use since the advent of human civilization. Its health-protective activity is endorsed by many religions and traditional medicines. In Unani medicine, honey is prescribed for many health conditions as wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, etc. In the present era, honey is gaining popularity over sugar for its myriad health benefits and low glycemic index. This review attempts to provide a comprehensive account of the biological activities and potential therapeutic uses of honey, with scientific evidence. METHODOLOGY In this paper, we have provided a comprehensive overview of historical uses, types, physical characteristics, bioactive constituents and pharmacological activities of honey. The information was gathered from Classical Unani textbooks and leading scientific databases. There is a plethora of information regarding various therapeutic activities of honey, and it is daunting to draw practical conclusions. Hence, in this paper, we have tried to summarize those aspects which are most relevant to clinical application. OBSERVATIONS AND CONCLUSIONS Many important bioactive constituents are identified in different honey types, e.g. phenolics, proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, organic acids, etc., which exert important biological activities like anti-microbial, wound healing, immunomodulatory, anti-toxin, antioxidant, and many others. Honey has the potential to alleviate many lifestyle disorders, mitigate the adverse effects of drugs and toxins, and also provide healthy nutrition. Although conclusive clinical evidence is not available, yet honey may potentially be a safer alternative to sucrose for diabetic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Nikhat
- Dept. of Ilaj bit Tadbeer, School of Unani Medical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India.
| | - Mohammad Fazil
- HAK Institute for Literary and Historical Research in Unani Medicine, CCRUM, Jamia Millia Islamia Campus, New Delhi, India.
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Honey antibacterial activity: A neglected aspect of honey quality assurance as functional food. Trends Food Sci Technol 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2021.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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The Effect of Honey on Lipid Profiles: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Controlled Clinical Trials. Br J Nutr 2021; 127:1482-1496. [PMID: 34218823 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114521002506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Honey is known not only as a natural food but also as complementary medicine. According to the controversial evidence about the effects of honey on blood lipids, this meta-analysis was performed to investigate the potential effects of honey on lipid profiles. Relevant studies were identified by searching PubMed, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases. All human controlled clinical trials (either with a parallel or a crossover design) published in English that reported changes in serum lipid markers (Total Cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C), High Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C), and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio) following honey consumption were considered. Standardized Mean Differences (SMDs) and their respective 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the changes in lipid profiles following honey consumption by random effects model. Statistical heterogeneity, sensitivity analysis, publication bias, and quality of the included studies were assessed, as well. The meta-analysis of 23 trials showed that honey had no significant effects on TC, TG, LDL-C, HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio. Significant heterogeneity was seen among the studies for all the studied factors (I2 index > 50%). Subgroup analysis based on the lipid profile status, types of honey, and intervention duration revealed no significant effect on TC, TG, LDL-C, and HDL-C. Quality of the evidences varied form very low to moderate according to various parameters. In conclusion, honey consumption did not affect serum lipid profiles (TC, TG, LDL-C, HDL-C, and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio).
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The Effects of Oral Consumption of Honey on Key Metabolic Profiles in Adult Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Nondiabetic Individuals: A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:6666832. [PMID: 33552217 PMCID: PMC7847356 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6666832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Although several clinical trials have revealed the beneficial effects of honey on metabolic profiles, the results are conflicting. The aim of this study was to systematically summarize the effects of oral consumption of honey on key metabolic profiles in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and nondiabetic individuals. Methods In total, four electronic databases, including PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane library, were searched from 2000 to 31 July 2019 to identify all English language studies that would meet the eligibility criteria. Clinical trials which have examined the effects of oral consumption of any types of honey on anthropometric indices, glycemic status, lipid profiles, and blood pressure in both diabetic and nondiabetic adult subjects were included in the study. Results Of the 7769 possible relevant studies (including 3547 duplicates) identified in the initial search, finally, 13 clinical trials were included in the systematic review. All studies except three had a parallel design. Of 13 studies, 8 trials did not have placebo/control groups. The included studies examined the impact of oral consumption of honey on glycemic status (n = 12), anthropometric indices (n = 6), lipid profiles (n = 10), and blood pressure (n = 3). Based on the Jadad scale, 5 studies had acceptable methodological quality, and the remaining (n = 8) had low methodological quality. Conclusion The current systematic review showed that oral consumption of honey might have no significant effects on the modulation of metabolic profiles in nondiabetic subjects. In addition, a high intake of honey might increase glucose levels and worsen other metabolic parameters in patients with T2DM. Due to substantial heterogeneity in study design and limited clinical trials, results, however, should be interpreted with great caution.
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Mohd Kamal DA, Ibrahim SF, Kamal H, Kashim MIAM, Mokhtar MH. Physicochemical and Medicinal Properties of Tualang, Gelam and Kelulut Honeys: A Comprehensive Review. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13010197. [PMID: 33435215 PMCID: PMC7827892 DOI: 10.3390/nu13010197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Tualang, Gelam and Kelulut honeys are tropical rainforest honeys reported to have various medicinal properties. Studies related to the medicinal properties and physicochemical characteristics of these honeys are growing extensively and receiving increased attention. This review incorporated and analysed the findings on the biological and physicochemical properties of these honeys. Tualang, Gelam and Kelulut honeys were found to possess a wide variety of biological effects attributed to their physicochemical characteristics. Findings revealed that these honeys have anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, anti-oxidative, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties and effects on the cardiovascular system, nervous system and reproductive system. The physicochemical properties of these honeys were compared and discussed and results showed that they have high-quality contents and excellent antioxidant sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Datu Agasi Mohd Kamal
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (D.A.M.K.); (S.F.I.); (H.K.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Therapeutics, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Malaysia
| | - Siti Fatimah Ibrahim
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (D.A.M.K.); (S.F.I.); (H.K.)
| | - Haziq Kamal
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (D.A.M.K.); (S.F.I.); (H.K.)
| | - Mohd Izhar Ariff Mohd Kashim
- Centre for Contemporary Fiqh and Sharia Compliance, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia;
- Institute of Islam Hadhari, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Helmy Mokhtar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (D.A.M.K.); (S.F.I.); (H.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +60-3-9145-8619
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Bucekova M, Bugarova V, Godocikova J, Majtan J. Demanding New Honey Qualitative Standard Based on Antibacterial Activity. Foods 2020; 9:foods9091263. [PMID: 32916880 PMCID: PMC7554693 DOI: 10.3390/foods9091263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Honey is a functional food with health-beneficial properties and it is already used as a medical device in wound care management. Whether ingested orally or applied topically, honey must fulfill the requirements of international standards based on physicochemical characteristics. However, there is an urgent need for some additional standards reflecting biological properties. The aim of the study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity of 36 commercial honey samples purchased from supermarkets and local food shops and compare their efficacy to that of three honey samples from local beekeepers and three types of medical-grade honey. Furthermore, the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content and protein profile were assessed in all honey samples. Analysis of the antibacterial activity of commercial honeys revealed that 44% of tested samples exhibited low antibacterial activity, identical to the activity of artificial honey (sugars only). There was a significant correlation between the overall antibacterial activity and H2O2 content of honey samples. However, in some cases, honey samples exhibited high antibacterial activity while generating low levels of H2O2 and vice versa. Honey samples from local beekeepers showed superior antibacterial activity compared to medical-grade honeys. The antibacterial activity of honey can be easily altered by adulteration, thermal treatment or prolonged storage, and therefore it fulfils strict criteria to be suitable new additional quality standard.
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Bt Hj Idrus R, Sainik NQAV, Nordin A, Saim AB, Sulaiman N. Cardioprotective Effects of Honey and Its Constituent: An Evidence-Based Review of Laboratory Studies and Clinical Trials. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E3613. [PMID: 32455701 PMCID: PMC7277934 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17103613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is a major public health burden worldwide. Myocardial infarction is the most common form of cardiovascular disease resulting from low blood supply to the heart. It can lead to further complications such as cardiac arrhythmia, toxic metabolite accumulation, and permanently infarcted areas. Honey is one of the most prized medicinal remedies used since ancient times. There is evidence that indicates honey can function as a cardioprotective agent in cardiovascular diseases. The present review compiles and discusses the available evidence on the effect of honey on cardiovascular diseases. Three electronic databases, namely, PubMed, Scopus, and MEDLINE via EBSCOhost, were searched between January 1959 and March 2020 to identify reports on the cardioprotective effect of honey. Based on the pre-set eligibility criteria, 25 qualified articles were selected and discussed in this review. Honey investigated in the studies included varieties according to their geological origin. Honey protects the heart via lipid metabolism improvement, antioxidative activity, blood pressure modulation, heartbeat restoration, myocardial infarct area reduction, antiaging properties, and cell apoptosis attenuation. This review establishes honey as a potential candidate to be explored further as a natural and dietary alternative to the management of cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruszymah Bt Hj Idrus
- Tissue Engineering Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (R.B.H.I.); (A.N.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | | | - Abid Nordin
- Tissue Engineering Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (R.B.H.I.); (A.N.)
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia;
| | - Aminuddin Bin Saim
- Ear, Nose & Throat Consultant Clinic, Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital, Ampang, Selangor 68000, Malaysia;
| | - Nadiah Sulaiman
- Tissue Engineering Centre, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia; (R.B.H.I.); (A.N.)
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Terzo S, Mulè F, Amato A. Honey and obesity-related dysfunctions: a summary on health benefits. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 82:108401. [PMID: 32454412 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2020.108401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 03/16/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Honey is a natural product, containing flavonoids and phenolic acids, appreciated for its therapeutic abilities since ancient times. Although the bioactive potential is linked to the composition, that is variable depending on mainly the botanical origin, honey has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, honey, administered alone or in combination with conventional therapy, might result useful in the management of chronic diseases that are commonly associated with oxidative stress and inflammation state. Obesity is a metabolic disorder characterized by visceral adiposity. The adipose tissue becomes hypertrophic and undergoes hyperplasia, resulting in a hypoxic environment, oxidative stress and production of pro-inflammatory mediators that can be responsible for other disorders, such as metabolic syndrome and neurodegeneration. Experimental evidence from animals have shown that honey improves glycemic control and lipid profile with consequent protection from endothelial dysfunction and neurodegeneration. The purpose of the present review is to summarize the current literature concerning the beneficial effects of honey in the management of the obesity-related dysfunctions, including neurodegeneration. Based on the key constituents of honey, the paper also highlights polyphenols to be potentially responsible for the health benefits of honey. Further well-designed and controlled studies are necessary to validate these benefits in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona Terzo
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy; Department of Neuroscience and cell biology, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Flavia Mulè
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Antonella Amato
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technologies, University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
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