Honey as a Complementary Medicine

Physicochemical Characterization, Antioxidant and Tyrosinase Inhibitory Activities of Coffea Robusta Monofloral Honey from Dak Lak Province, Vietnam

Robusta coffee blossom honey stands as a key regional product in Dak Lak province, Vietnam. Despite its significance, there exists a dearth of scientific data for assessing its quality. This study aims to fill this gap by characterizing the physicochemical properties and biological activities of coffee blossom honeys from three distinct sub-regions within Dak Lak province, Vietnam. These activities include ferric reducing power (FRP), DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging, as well as tyrosinase inhibitory activities. Moreover, the study compares these honey samples with other popular varieties in Vietnam, such as Lychee and Longan honeys. The physicochemical parameters of the honey samples meet the standards set by Codex Alimentarius 2001. Through UPLC analysis, eleven compounds were identified, with caffeine serving as a marker for coffee honey. Furthermore, by employing multiple factor analysis (MFA), it was observed that certain physicochemical properties correlate positively with tyrosinase inhibitory, DPPH, ABTS free radicals scavenging activities, and FRP. Notably, tyrosinase inhibitory activity exhibited a positive correlation with antioxidant activity. These findings underscore the high quality of Coffea robusta honey, showcasing its potent antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory activities.

Medical-Grade Honey as a Potential New Therapy for Bacterial Vaginosis

The prevalence of bacterial vaginosis (BV) among women of reproductive age is 29%. BV arises from a vaginal imbalance marked by reduced levels of lactic acid-producing lactobacilli and an overgrowth of pathogenic anaerobes. The multifactorial nature of BV's pathogenesis complicates its treatment. Current antibiotic therapy exhibits a recurrence rate of about 60% within a year. Recurrence can be caused by antibiotic treatment failure (e.g., due to antimicrobial resistance), the persistence of residual infections (e.g., due to biofilm formation), and re-infection. Because of the high recurrence rates, alternative therapies are required. Medical-grade honey (MGH), known for its antimicrobial and wound healing properties in wound care, emerges as a potential novel therapy for BV. MGH exerts broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, employing multiple mechanisms to eliminate the risk of resistance. For example, the low pH of MGH and the production of hydrogen peroxide benefit the microbiota and helps restore the natural vaginal balance. This is supported by in vitro studies demonstrating that MGH has an antibacterial effect on several pathogenic bacteria involved in the pathophysiology of BV, while lactobacilli and the vaginal microenvironment can be positively affected. In contrast to antibiotics, MGH exerts anti-biofilm activity, affects the microbiome as pre- and probiotic, and modulates the vaginal microenvironment through its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, physicochemical, and immunomodulatory properties. More clinical research is required to confirm the positive effect of MGH on BV and to investigate the long-term cure rate.

The quality of selected raw and pasteurized honeys based on their sensory profiles and consumer preferences

The purpose of this study was to determine the sensory profile of honeys based on the method of quantitative descriptive analysis and principal component analysis and assess consumer preferences of raw and pasteurized honeys. Samples of multi-floral honeys (from the store and apiary) were subjected to sensory analysis based on the method of ranking for taste preference, the method of scaling based on color, aroma, taste, and texture, and the method of differential descriptive analysis using 11 quality descriptors. The results were subjected to statistical analysis using the Principal Component Analysis method. The taste was found to be a descriptor that differentiates honey by origin. Consumers prefer the taste of pasteurized honeys. As a result of assessing the quality of honeys using the scaling method, it was found that: raw honeys are characterized by a lighter color than pasteurized honeys, store-bought honeys have a less noticeable aroma than honeys obtained from beekeepers, while samples of pasteurized honeys were judged to have a consistency more like that of typical honey. The sensory profiles obtained highlight the differences between pasteurized honeys and raw honeys.

Ultrasonication for honey processing and preservation: A brief overview

Honey is a food product consumed all over the world. Besides its nutritional properties, honey presents antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. To ensure that the final product meets qualitative and microbiological standards, honey treatment is of great importance. Conventional honey treatment is based on the heating of honey samples for decrystallization and bacteria and yeast inactivation. However, conventional heating can cause negative effects on honey quality, such as the formation of toxic compounds, reduction of enzyme activity, and loss of antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. The application of ultrasonic waves has demonstrated interesting effects on honey processing. Ultrasound (US) treatment can lead to the fragmentation of glucose crystals in crystalized honey and has little effect on its properties. In addition to inactivating microorganisms, US-assisted honey processing also preserves phenolic compounds content and antimicrobial properties. However, there is still limited information about honey sonication. The aim of the present review is to comprehensively show the possibilities of US application in honey processing and its effects on honey properties.

The Effect of Honey, Aloe Vera, and Hydrocolloid Dressing on the Healing Process of Murine Excisional Wounds

Chronic ulcers are a major health problem associated with high costs and a loss of quality of life. Because of this, the search for products that accelerate wound healing is a constant, given the need for alternatives that help to alleviate this serious health problem. We analyzed the efficacy of 2 natural products-honey and aloe vera-versus hydrocolloid (HC) dressings as a control group in healing full-thickness wounds. For this purpose, we performed full-thickness excisions of the skin, including the panniculus carnosus, in mice. We inserted a nitrile ring into the subcutaneous cellular tissue simulating the second-intention wound healing course. We found that aloe vera reduced the diameter of the wounds compared to honey (p < .001) and the control group (p < .001).

The prevalence and pattern of complementary and alternative medicine use among cancer patients in a tertiary oncology center: a cross-sectional study

Background

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is widely used nationally and internationally for multiple medical conditions, including different stages of cancer. It is used by the patients for multiple purposes, including to cure diseases or resolve symptoms, as patients have the misconception that natural remedies are safer than radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Objectives

The aim of this research is to investigate the prevalence, pattern, and purpose of CAM use by cancer patients at Princess Noorah Oncology Center (PNOC), King Abdulaziz Medical City, in Jeddah (KAMC-JD).

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study that examined 293 patients (selected through random computerized sampling) who were seen at PNOC during the study period. To be eligible for the study, participants had to be cancer patients over the age of 18 who were seen at PNOC. The authors excluded patients who had privacy requests or did not fit our inclusion criteria.

Results

Of the sample, 52.9% [95% confidence interval (CI), 47.0-58.7] used CAM. Only 5.8% of patients delayed their medical treatment to use CAM. A significantly higher proportion of females used CAM than males (61.8% vs. 40.0%, P<0.001). The most common types of CAM were Zamzam water (67.7%), Quran recitation (42.6%), water read upon Quran (41.3%), and black seed (Nigella sativa) (41.3%). The most frequently reported reasons for CAM use were to treat cancer (53.5%), increase immunity (34.2%), and religious beliefs (23.9%). Generally, 57.4% of CAM users felt improvement with CAM modalities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, more than 50% of our sample used CAM; 5.8% of patients delayed the medical treatment to use CAM. The most common type of CAM was Zamzam water, and the most frequently reported reason for CAM use was to treat cancer. Of CAM users, 57.4% felt improvement with CAM modalities. Further studies that involve qualitative designs and include a more diverse sample are recommended in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to understand CAM utilization patterns.

Consumption of honey ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction via upregulation of tight junction proteins

PURPOSE

The leaky gut barrier is an important factor leading to various inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders. The nutritional value of honey and variety of its health benefits have long been recognized. This study was undertaken to assess the role of Indian mustard honey in preventing lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction using a combination of in vitro and in vivo experimental model systems.

METHODS

LPS was used to induce intestinal barrier damage in a trans-well model of Caco-2 cells (1 µg/ml) and in Swiss albino mice (5 mg/kg body weight). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) were used to analyse sugar and phenolic components in honey samples. The Caco-2 cell monolayer integrity was evaluated by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and paracellular permeability assays. The histopathology of intestinal tissue was analysed by haematoxylin and eosin dual staining. The quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to quantify the transcription of genes. The protein expression was analysed by immunofluorescence, western blot and ELISA-based techniques.

RESULTS

The in vitro data showed that honey prevented LPS-induced intestinal barrier dysfunction dose dependently as was measured by TEER and paracellular flux of FITC-dextran dye. Further, the in vivo data showed a prophylactic effect of orally administered honey as it prevented the loss of intestinal barrier integrity and villus structure. The cellular localization and expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins were upregulated along with downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to the administration of honey with LPS.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study suggest a propitious role of honey in the maintenance of TJ protein integrity, thereby preventing LPS-induced intestinal barrier disintegration.

Mercury in honey from the Marche region (central Italy). Risk assessment from human consumption and its use as bioindicator of environmental pollution

Honey is a natural product made by honeybees (Apis mellifera) from nectar or honeydew. It is a very popular and appreciated product all over the world as it represents a rapidly available energy source and exerts several beneficial properties for humans. However, it has been demonstrated that honey can be contaminated by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) of natural or anthropogenic origin. Among them, mercury (Hg) represents one of the most dangerous for its toxicity and its capacity to biomagnify along the trophic web. In the present study, 100 honey samples from the Marche Region (Central Italy) produced in the year 2021, were analyzed by thermal decomposition amalgamation atomic absorption spectrometry to determine the Hg content. The overall mean concentration was 0.2 ± 0.2 μg kg-1. The results showed that no statistically significant differences were found in Hg content among honey from different pollen origin, but honeydew had a significantly higher Hg content with respect to all other honey samples (0.6 ± 0.3 μg kg-1). The Hg content in honey depends mainly on local pollution, while geographical origin did not play a key role. Furthermore, considering the regulatory limits and provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWIs) identified by FAO/WHO, the Hg Hazard Quotient (HQ) measurement revealed that this product is safe for human consumption.

Antimicrobial Properties, Functional Characterisation and Application of Fructobacillus fructosus and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum Isolated from Artisanal Honey

Honey is a valuable reservoir of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and, particularly, of fructophilic LAB (FLAB), a relatively novel subgroup of LAB whose functional potential for human and food application has yet to be explored. In this study, FLAB and LAB strains have been isolated from honeys of different floral origins and selected for their broad antimicrobial activity against typical foodborne pathogenic bacteria and spoilage filamentous fungi. The best candidates, two strains belonging to the species Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Fructobacillus fructosus, were submitted to partial characterisation of their cell free supernatants (CFS) in order to identify the secreted metabolites with antimicrobial activity. Besides, these strains were examined to assess some major functional features, including in vitro tolerance to the oro-gastrointestinal conditions, potential cytotoxicity against HT-29 cells, adhesion to human enterocyte-like cells and capability to stimulate macrophages. Moreover, when the tested strains were applied on table grapes artificially contaminated with pathogenic bacteria or filamentous fungi, they showed a good ability to antagonise the growth of undesired microbes, as well as to survive on the fruit surface at a concentration that is recommended to develop a probiotic effect. In conclusion, both LAB and FLAB honey-isolated strains characterised in this work exhibit functional properties that validate their potential use as biocontrol agents and for the design of novel functional foods. We reported antimicrobial activity, cytotoxic evaluation, probiotic properties and direct food application of a F. fructosus strain, improving the knowledge of this species, in particular, and on FLAB, more generally.

The anti-allergic potential of stingless bee honey from different botanical sources via modulation of mast cell degranulation

BACKGROUND

Allergy is an inflammatory disorder affecting around 20% of the global population. The adverse effects of current conventional treatments give rise to the increased popularity of using natural food products as complementary and alternative medicine against allergic diseases. Stingless bee honey, commonly known as Kelulut honey (KH) in Malaysia, has been used locally as a traditional remedy to relieve cough and asthma. This study evaluated the anti-allergic potential of KH collected from four different botanical sources on phorbol ester 12-myristate-3-acetate and calcium ionophore-activated human mast cells.

METHODS

The present study examined the inhibitory effects of all collected honey on the release of selected inflammatory mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-4, IL-6, IL-8, histamine, and β-hexosaminidase in an activated HMC. Besides that, all honey's total phenolic content (TPC) was also examined, followed by using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) to identify the phytochemicals in the honey. Further examination of the identified phytochemicals on their potential interaction with selected signaling molecules in an activated mast cell was conducted using computational methods.

RESULTS

The results indicated that there were significant inhibitory effects on all selected inflammatory mediators' release by KH sourced from bamboo (BH) and rubber tree (RH) at 0.5% and 1%, but not KH sourced from mango (AH) and noni (EH). BH and RH were found to have higher TPC values and were rich in their phytochemical profiles based on the LC-MS/MS results. Computational studies were employed to determine the possible molecular target of KH through molecular docking using HADDOCK and PRODIGY web servers.

CONCLUSIONS

In short, the results indicated that KH possesses anti-allergic effects towards an activated HMC, possibly by targeting downstream MAPKs. However, their anti-allergic effects may vary according to their botanical sources. Nevertheless, the present study has provided insight into the potential application of stingless bee honey as a complementary and alternative medicine to treat various allergic diseases.

Citrus Honeys from Three Different Regions of Turkey: HPLC-DAD Profiling and in Vitro Enzyme Inhibition, Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Properties with Chemometric Study

The objectives of the present study are to compare the phenolic profiles and biological activities of 15 citrus honey samples from three different locations in Turkey using a chemometric approach. The HPLC-DAD analysis was used to determine phenolic profiles. Nineteen phenolic compounds were identified. Gallic acid (107.14-717.04 μg/g) was recorded as the predominant compound. AF (Antalya-Finike) had the highest antioxidant activity in ABTS⋅+ (IC50 : 18.01±0.69 mg/mL), metal chelating (IC50 : 6.20±0.19 mg/mL) and CUPRAC (A0.50 : 12.05±0.68 mg/mL) assays, while it revealed the best anti-inflammatory activity against COX-2 (17.28±0.22 %) and COX-1 (43.28±0.91 %). AM (Antalya-Manavgat) was the most active in β-carotene-linoleic acid (IC50 : 10.05±0.19 mg/mL), anti-urease (38.90±0.69 %), anti-quorum sensing and antimicrobial activities. AKO1 (Adana-Kozan-1) in DPPH⋅ (IC50 : 34.25±0.81 mg/mL) assay, AKU1 (Antalya-Kumluca-1) in tyrosinase inhibition activity (37.73±0.38 %) assay, AKU2 (Antalya-Kumluca-2) in AChE (10.55±0.63 %) and BChE (9.18±0.45 %) inhibition activity assays showed the best activity. Chemometric tools were applied to the phenolic compositions and biological properties. PCA and HCA ensured that 15 citrus honey samples were grouped into 3 clusters. The results showed that myricetin, kaempferol, vanillin, protocatechuic acid, rosmarinic acid, rutin, vanillic acid, gallic acid, catechin and p-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid are phenolic compounds that can be used in the classification of citrus honeys.

The Antioxidant and Prebiotic Activities of Mixtures Honey/Biomimetic NaDES and Polyphenols Show Differences between Honeysuckle and Raspberry Extracts

In our previous research, we demonstrated that honey and its biomimetic natural deep eutectic solvent (NaDES) modulate the antioxidant activity (AOA) of the raspberry extract (RE). In this study, we evaluated the AOA behaviour of the mixture honey/NaDES-honeysuckle (Lonicera caprifolium, LFL) extract and compared it with the mixture honey/NaDES-RE. These two extracts have similar major flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acid compounds but differ in their total content and the presence of anthocyanins in RE. Therefore, it was of interest to see if the modulation of the LFL polyphenols by honey/NaDES was similar to that of RE. We also evaluated the prebiotic activity of these mixtures and individual components on Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 20016. Although honey/NaDES modulated the AOA of both extracts, from synergism to antagonism, the modulation was different between the two extracts for some AOA activities. Honey/NaDES mixtures enriched with LFL and RE did not show significant differences in bacterial growth stimulation. However, at a concentration of 45 mg/mL, the honey -LFL mixture exhibited a higher effect compared to the honey-RE mixture. The antioxidant and prebiotic properties of mixtures between honey and polyphenol-rich extracts are determined by multiple interactions in complex chemical systems.

Different Strategies for the Microfluidic Purification of Antibiotics from Food: A Comparative Study

The presence of residual antibiotics in food is increasingly emerging as a worrying risk for human health both for the possible direct toxicity and for the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In the context of food safety, new methods based on microfluidics could offer better performance, providing improved rapidity, portability and sustainability, being more cost effective and easy to use. Here, a microfluidic method based on the use of magnetic microbeads specifically functionalized and inserted in polymeric microchambers is proposed. The microbeads are functionalized either with aptamers, antibodies or small functional groups able to interact with specific antibiotics. The setup of these different strategies as well as the performance of the different functionalizations are carefully evaluated and compared. The most promising results are obtained employing the functionalization with aptamers, which are able not only to capture and release almost all tetracycline present in the initial sample but also to deliver an enriched and simplified solution of antibiotic. These solutions of purified antibiotics are particularly suitable for further analyses, for example, with innovative methods, such as label-free detection. On the contrary, the on-chip process based on antibodies could capture only partially the antibiotics, as well as the protocol based on beads functionalized with small groups specific for sulfonamides. Therefore, the on-chip purification with aptamers combined with new portable detection systems opens new possibilities for the development of sensors in the field of food safety.

Honey: A Promising Therapeutic Supplement for the Prevention and Management of Osteoporosis and Breast Cancer

Osteoporosis and breast cancer are serious diseases that have become a significant socioeconomic burden. There are biochemical associations between the two disorders in terms of the amended function of estrogen, receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa beta ligand, oxidative stress, inflammation, and lipid accumulation. Honey as a functional food with high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can contribute to the prevention of various diseases. Its health benefits are mainly related to the content of polyphenols. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge from in vitro, animal, and human studies on the use of honey as a potential therapeutic agent for osteoporosis and breast cancer. Preclinical studies have revealed a beneficial impact of honey on both bone health (microstructure, strength, oxidative stress) and breast tissue health (breast cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis, tumor growth rate, and volume). The limited number of clinical trials, especially in osteoporosis, indicates the need for further research to evaluate the potential benefits of honey in the treatment. Clinical studies related to breast cancer have revealed that honey is effective in increasing blood cell counts, interleukin-3 levels, and quality of life. In summary, honey may serve as a prospective therapeutic supplement for bone and breast tissue health.

Physicochemical Characteristics and Bioactive Compounds of Different Types of Honey and Their Biological and Therapeutic Properties: A Comprehensive Review

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.

Honey and Nigella sativa against COVID-19 in Pakistan (HNS-COVID-PK): A multicenter placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial

Until now, no specific and effective treatment exists for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Since honey and Nigella sativa (HNS) have established antiviral, antibacterial, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, we tested their efficacy for this disease in a multicenter, placebo-controlled, and randomized clinical trial at four medical care facilities in Pakistan. RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 adults showing moderate or severe disease were enrolled in the trial. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either honey (1 g kg^-1  day^-1 ) and Nigella sativa seeds (80 mg kg^-1  day^-1 ) or a placebo for up to 13 days along with standard care. The outcomes included symptoms' alleviation, viral clearance, and 30-day mortality in the intention-to-treat population. Three hundred and thirteen patients, 210 with moderate and 103 with severe disease, underwent randomization from April 30 to July 29, 2020. Among the moderate cases, 107 were assigned to HNS, whereas 103 were assigned to the placebo group. Among the severe cases, 50 were given HNS, and 53 were given the placebo. HNS resulted in ~50% reduction in time taken to alleviate symptoms as compared to placebo (moderate cases: 4 vs. 7 days, Hazard Ratio [HR]: 6.11; 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 4.23-8.84, p < 0.0001 and for severe cases: 6 vs. 13 days, HR: 4.04; 95% CI: 2.46-6.64; p < 0.0001). HNS also cleared the virus earlier than placebo in both moderate cases (6 vs. 10 days, HR: 5.53; 95% CI: 3.76-8.14, p < 0.0001) and severe cases (8.5 vs. 12 days, HR: 4.32; 95% CI: 2.62-7.13, p < 0.0001). HNS further led to a better clinical score on day 6 with normal activity resumption in 63.6% vs. 10.9% among moderate cases (OR: 0.07; 95% CI: 0.03-0.13, p < 0.0001) and hospital discharge in 50% versus 2.8% in severe cases (OR: 0.03; 95% CI: 0.01-0.09, p < 0.0001). In severe cases, the mortality rate was less than 1/4th in the HNS group than in placebo (4% vs. 18.87%, OR: 0.18; 95% CI: 0.02-0.92, p = 0.029). No HNS-related adverse effects were observed. HNS, compared with placebo, significantly improved symptoms, expedited viral load clearance, and reduced mortality in COVID-19 patients. This trial was registered on April 15, 2020 with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04347382.

Honey on brain health: A promising brain booster

Since ancient times, honey has been employed in many aspects of everyday life, the most popular of which is as a natural sweetener. Honey is used not only as a nutritional product but also in health as a supplement and in various applications, especially related to brain booster health. Brain health is the capacity to carry out all mental functions necessary for cognition, such as learning and judging, utilizing language, and recalling. This review presents the current trend of research on honey, particularly the interest in underlying mechanisms related to brain booster health. A total of 34 original articles addressing brain health from the consumption of honey were analyzed. We identified four main brain health benefits, which are memory booster, neuroprotective effect, anti-stress, and anti-nociceptive potentials with the proposed underlying mechanism. A lot of attention has been paid to the role that honey plays in brain health research, with the goal of examining the link between honey and brain health as well as the mechanism underlying it, the findings from this review may be potentially beneficial to develop new therapeutic roles for honey to help determine the best and most promising to benefit and boost overall brain health.

A review on the phytochemical composition and health applications of honey

Background

Though honey has long been used as medicine, there is a scarcity of knowledge on how it interacts with the body.

Scope and approach

While different types of honey have different chemical and medicinal properties according to their origin, this narrative review seeks to analyse the current knowledge on the chemical composition and therapeutic use of honey. With numerous chemical components, honey has a range of health benefits in multiple disciplines of medicine, and provides an interesting prospect in chemical analysis with regards to identification of its origin.

Key findings and conclusions

There is a great potential for the use of honey in medicine, primarily due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Recent studies on the phenolic and enzymatic components of honey have made honey's therapeutic method of action in relation to the above properties clearer, still more research needs to be conducted and more innovations need to be tested, for the full potential of honey to be understood.

Benefits of Manuka Honey in the Management of Infectious Diseases: Recent Advances and Prospects

The benefits of honey have been recognized since ancient times for treating numerous diseases. However, in today's modern era, the use of traditional remedies has been rapidly diminishing due to the complexities of modern lifestyles. While antibiotics are commonly used and effective in treating pathogenic infections, their inappropriate use can lead to the development of resistance among microorganisms, resulting in their widespread prevalence. Therefore, new approaches are constantly required to combat drug-resistant microorganisms, and one practical and useful approach is the use of drug combination treatments. Manuka honey, derived from the manuka tree (Leptospermum scoparium) found exclusively in New Zealand, has garnered significant attention for its biological potential, particularly due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Moreover, when combined with antibiotics, it has demonstrated the ability to enhance their effectiveness. In this review, we delve into the chemical markers of manuka honey that are currently known, as well as detail the impact of manuka honey on the management of infectious diseases up to the present.

¹H-NMR Metabolic Profiling, Antioxidant Activity, and Docking Study of Common Medicinal Plant-Derived Honey

The purpose of this investigation was to determine ¹H-NMR profiling and antioxidant activity of the most common types of honey, namely, citrus honey (HC1) (Morcott tangerine L. and Jaffa orange L.), marjoram honey (HM1) (Origanum majorana L.), and clover honey (HT1) (Trifolium alexandrinum L.), compared to their secondary metabolites (HC2, HM2, HT2, respectively). By using a ¹H-NMR-based metabolomic technique, PCA, and PLS-DA multivariate analysis, we found that HC2, HM2, HC1, and HM1 were clustered together. However, HT1 and HT2 were quite far from these and each other. This indicated that HC1, HM1, HC2, and HM2 have similar chemical compositions, while HT1 and HT2 were unique in their chemical profiles. Antioxidation potentials were determined colorimetrically for scavenging activities against DPPH, ABTS, ORAC, 5-LOX, and metal chelating activity in all honey extract samples and their secondary metabolites. Our results revealed that HC2 and HM2 possessed more antioxidant activities than HT2 in vitro. HC2 demonstrated the highest antioxidant effect in all assays, followed by HM2 (DPPH assay: IC₅₀ 2.91, 10.7 μg/mL; ABTS assay: 431.2, 210.24 at 50 ug/mL Trolox equivalent; ORAC assay: 259.5, 234.8 at 50 ug/mL Trolox equivalent; 5-LOX screening assay/IC₅₀: 2.293, 6.136 ug/mL; and metal chelating activity at 50 ug/mL: 73.34526%, 63.75881% inhibition). We suggest that the presence of some secondary metabolites in HC and HM, such as hesperetin, linalool, and caffeic acid, increased the antioxidant activity in citrus and marjoram compared to clover honey.

The Potential of Honey as a Prebiotic Food to Re-engineer the Gut Microbiome Toward a Healthy State

Honey has a long history of use for the treatment of digestive ailments. Certain honey types have well-established bioactive properties including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities. In addition, honey contains non-digestible carbohydrates in the form of oligosaccharides, and there is increasing evidence from in vitro, animal, and pilot human studies that some kinds of honey have prebiotic activity. Prebiotics are foods or compounds, such as non-digestible carbohydrates, that are used to promote specific, favorable changes in the composition and function of the gut microbiota. The gut microbiota plays a critical role in human health and well-being, with disturbances to the balance of these organisms linked to gut inflammation and the development and progression of numerous conditions, such as colon cancer, irritable bowel syndrome, obesity, and mental health issues. Consequently, there is increasing interest in manipulating the gut microbiota to a more favorable balance as a way of improving health by dietary means. Current research suggests that certain kinds of honey can reduce the presence of infection-causing bacteria in the gut including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Clostridiodes difficile, while simultaneously stimulating the growth of potentially beneficial species, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. In this paper, we review the current and growing evidence that shows the prebiotic potential of honey to promote healthy gut function, regulate the microbial communities in the gut, and reduce infection and inflammation. We outline gaps in knowledge and explore the potential of honey as a viable option to promote or re-engineer a healthy gut microbiome.

Honey: An Advanced Antimicrobial and Wound Healing Biomaterial for Tissue Engineering Applications

Honey was used in traditional medicine to treat wounds until the advent of modern medicine. The rising global antibiotic resistance has forced the development of novel therapies as alternatives to combat infections. Consequently, honey is experiencing a resurgence in evaluation for antimicrobial and wound healing applications. A range of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains and biofilms, are inhibited by honey. Furthermore, susceptibility to antibiotics can be restored when used synergistically with honey. Honey’s antimicrobial activity also includes antifungal and antiviral properties, and in most varieties of honey, its activity is attributed to the enzymatic generation of hydrogen peroxide, a reactive oxygen species. Non-peroxide factors include low water activity, acidity, phenolic content, defensin-1, and methylglyoxal (Leptospermum honeys). Honey has also been widely explored as a tissue-regenerative agent. It can contribute to all stages of wound healing, and thus has been used in direct application and in dressings. The difficulty of the sustained delivery of honey’s active ingredients to the wound site has driven the development of tissue engineering approaches (e.g., electrospinning and hydrogels). This review presents the most in-depth and up-to-date comprehensive overview of honey’s antimicrobial and wound healing properties, commercial and medical uses, and its growing experimental use in tissue-engineered scaffolds.

Calluna vulgaris as a Valuable Source of Bioactive Compounds: Exploring Its Phytochemical Profile, Biological Activities and Apitherapeutic Potential

Calluna vulgaris, belonging to the Ericaceae family, is an invasive plant that has widely spread from Europe all across Asia, North America, Australia and New Zealand. Being able to survive in rigid soil and environmental conditions, it is nowadays considered to be of high nature-conservation value. Known for its nutritional and medicinal properties, C. vulgaris stands out for its varied physiochemical composition, spotlighting a wide range of biological activity. Among the most important bioactive compounds identified in C. vulgaris, the phenolic components found in different parts of this herbaceous plant are the main source of its diverse pro-health properties (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, chemoprotective, etc.). Nonetheless, this plant exhibits an excellent nectariferous potential for social insects such as honeybees; therefore, comparing the bioactive compounds observed in the plant and in the final product of the beehive, namely honey, will help us understand and find new insights into the health benefits provided by the consumption of C. vulgaris-related products. Thus, the main interest of this work is to review the nutritional profile, chemical composition and biological activities of the C. vulgaris plant and its related honey in order to encourage the future exploration and use of this health-promoting plant in novel foods, pharmacological products and apitherapy.

Recent Advances in Honey-Based Nanoparticles for Wound Dressing: A Review

Wounds with impaired healing, including delayed acute injuries and chronic injuries, generally fail to progress through normal healing stages. A deeper understanding of the biochemical processes involved in chronic wound cures is necessary to correct the microenvironmental imbalances in the wound treatment designs of products. The therapeutic benefits of honey, particularly its antimicrobial activity, make it a viable option for wound treatment in a variety of situations. Integration with nanotechnology has opened up new possibilities not only for wound healing but also for other medicinal applications. In this review, recent advances in honey-based nanoparticles for wound healing are discussed. This also covers the mechanism of the action of nanoparticles in the wound healing process and perspectives on the challenges and future trends of using honey-based nanoparticles. The underlying mechanisms of wound healing using honey are believed to be attributed to hydrogen peroxide, high osmolality, acidity, non-peroxide components, and phenols. Therefore, incorporating honey into various wound dressings has become a major trend due to the increasing demand for combination dressings in the global wound dressing market because these dressings contain two or more types of chemical and physical properties to ensure optimal functionality. At the same time, their multiple features (low cost, biocompatibility, and swelling index) and diverse fabrication methods (electrospun fibres, hydrogels, etc.) make them a popular choice among researchers.

Biochemical Reactions and Their Biological Contributions in Honey

Honey is known for its content of biomolecules, such as enzymes. The enzymes of honey originate from bees, plant nectars, secretions or excretions of plant-sucking insects, or from microorganisms such as yeasts. Honey can be characterized by enzyme-catalyzed and non-enzymatic reactions. Notable examples of enzyme-catalyzed reactions are the production of hydrogen peroxide through glucose oxidase activity and the conversion of hydrogen peroxide to water and oxygen by catalase enzymes. Production of hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) from glucose or fructose is an example of non-enzymatic reactions in honey.

A Comparative Study on the Effects of “Honey and Fenugreek” with “Fenugreek” on the Breastfeeding Success: A Randomized Trial

Objective. Herbal galactagogues are usually recommended to be sweetened with honey. Despite the high nutritious value of honey for lactating women and extensive studies on the effects of herbal galactagogues, no investigation was made to compare galactagogue effects of using herbal galactagogues with and without honey so far. The present study aimed to compare the effect of a combination of “honey and fenugreek” with “fenugreek” on breastfeeding success (BFS). Methods. This study is a triple-blind randomized clinical trial on 75 breastfeeding mothers referred to a Tehran-Iran health center. The participants were randomly divided into two intervention (fenugreek and honey users) and control (fenugreek users) groups. These women had infants of 1–5 months and had exclusive breastfeeding practice. Tools for data collection were (1) the personal and maternal-infant information, (2) the breastfeeding success, and (3) the complications questionnaires. Participants received 30 liquid drops, three times daily for four weeks. The BFS questionnaire was completed twice, before and 4 weeks after the intervention. The CONSORT checklist was followed. Results. Before and after comparison showed no significant difference in the BFS score in the “fenugreek” group, while there was a significant increase in the BFS score in the “honey and fenugreek” group ( $P=0.035$ ). Between groups, comparison demonstrated a significantly higher score of BFS in the intervention group than in the control group ( $P=0.023$ ). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the possible complications. Conclusion. The combination of honey with fenugreek showed a significant effect on BFS, while there was no improvement in BFS after fenugreek only uses. Trial registration: the study was approved in the Iranian registry of clinical trials with IRCT ID: IRCT20120122008801N23 on 2019-12-30 (https://www.irct.ir/).

A Comparative Study on the Effects of “Honey and Fenugreek” with “Fenugreek” on the Breastfeeding Success: A Randomized Trial

Objective. Herbal galactagogues are usually recommended to be sweetened with honey. Despite the high nutritious value of honey for lactating women and extensive studies on the effects of herbal galactagogues, no investigation was made to compare galactagogue effects of using herbal galactagogues with and without honey so far. The present study aimed to compare the effect of a combination of “honey and fenugreek” with “fenugreek” on breastfeeding success (BFS). Methods. This study is a triple-blind randomized clinical trial on 75 breastfeeding mothers referred to a Tehran-Iran health center. The participants were randomly divided into two intervention (fenugreek and honey users) and control (fenugreek users) groups. These women had infants of 1–5 months and had exclusive breastfeeding practice. Tools for data collection were (1) the personal and maternal-infant information, (2) the breastfeeding success, and (3) the complications questionnaires. Participants received 30 liquid drops, three times daily for four weeks. The BFS questionnaire was completed twice, before and 4 weeks after the intervention. The CONSORT checklist was followed. Results. Before and after comparison showed no significant difference in the BFS score in the “fenugreek” group, while there was a significant increase in the BFS score in the “honey and fenugreek” group ( $P=0.035$ ). Between groups, comparison demonstrated a significantly higher score of BFS in the intervention group than in the control group ( $P=0.023$ ). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the possible complications. Conclusion. The combination of honey with fenugreek showed a significant effect on BFS, while there was no improvement in BFS after fenugreek only uses. Trial registration: the study was approved in the Iranian registry of clinical trials with IRCT ID: IRCT20120122008801N23 on 2019-12-30 (https://www.irct.ir/).

A Comparative Study on the Effects of “Honey and Fenugreek” with “Fenugreek” on the Breastfeeding Success: A Randomized Trial

Objective

Herbal galactagogues are usually recommended to be sweetened with honey. Despite the high nutritious value of honey for lactating women and extensive studies on the effects of herbal galactagogues, no investigation was made to compare galactagogue effects of using herbal galactagogues with and without honey so far. The present study aimed to compare the effect of a combination of “honey and fenugreek” with “fenugreek” on breastfeeding success (BFS).

Methods

This study is a triple-blind randomized clinical trial on 75 breastfeeding mothers referred to a Tehran-Iran health center. The participants were randomly divided into two intervention (fenugreek and honey users) and control (fenugreek users) groups. These women had infants of 1–5 months and had exclusive breastfeeding practice. Tools for data collection were (1) the personal and maternal-infant information, (2) the breastfeeding success, and (3) the complications questionnaires. Participants received 30 liquid drops, three times daily for four weeks. The BFS questionnaire was completed twice, before and 4 weeks after the intervention. The CONSORT checklist was followed.

Results

Before and after comparison showed no significant difference in the BFS score in the “fenugreek” group, while there was a significant increase in the BFS score in the “honey and fenugreek” group (P=0.035). Between groups, comparison demonstrated a significantly higher score of BFS in the intervention group than in the control group (P=0.023). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the possible complications.

Conclusion

The combination of honey with fenugreek showed a significant effect on BFS, while there was no improvement in BFS after fenugreek only uses. Trial registration: the study was approved in the Iranian registry of clinical trials with IRCT ID: IRCT20120122008801N23 on 2019-12-30 (https://www.irct.ir/).

Potential of honey against the onset of autoimmune diabetes and its associated nephropathy, pancreatitis, and retinopathy in type 1 diabetic animal model

Honey has been used as a traditional remedy for various health benefits. This study investigated the potential of honey against the onset of autoimmune diabetes and its associated secondary complications in type 1 diabetic (T1D) experimental animals. Autoimmune diabetes was induced in Sprague Dawley rats, and at the same time, the rats were treated with honey or metformin. Sandwich ELISAs were used to estimate blood glucose, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), total cholesterol, and triglycerides. Histopathological examinations determined the T1D-induced lesions on kidneys, pancreas, cornea, and retina. Treatment of rats with honey during the course of T1D induction showed a significant reduction in fasting-blood-glucose and HbA1c (p < 0.01), and total lipid profile was also improved (p < 0.05). Not only these, but honey also reduced the T1D-induced lesions in the kidney, pancreas, and cornea/retina (p < 0.05). Metformin showed similar effects and was used as a positive control. In conclusion, honey showed therapeutic potential against the onset of autoimmune diabetes, as it reduces blood glucose/HbA1c and improves the lipid profile by reducing the plasma levels of total cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins (LDL), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), and triglycerides. Moreover, it also showed protective potential against the development of diabetic nephropathy, pancreatitis, and retinopathy.

Processing Technologies for Bee Products: An Overview of Recent Developments and Perspectives

Increased demand for a more balanced, healthy, and safe diet has accelerated studies on natural bee products (including honey, bee bread, bee collected pollen royal jelly, propolis, beeswax, and bee venom) over the past decade. Advanced food processing techniques, such as ultrasonication and microwave and infrared (IR) irradiation, either has gained popularity as alternatives or combined with conventional processing techniques for diverse applications in apiculture products at laboratory or industrial scale. The processing techniques used for each bee products have comprehensively summarized in this review, including drying (traditional drying, infrared drying, microwave-assisted traditional drying or vacuum drying, and low temperature high velocity-assisted fluidized bed drying), storage, extraction, isolation, and identification; the assessment methods related to the quality control of bee products are also fully mentioned. The different processing techniques applied in bee products aim to provide more healthy active ingredients largely and effectively. Furthermore, improved the product quality with a shorter processing time and reduced operational cost are achieved using conventional or emerging processing techniques. This review will increase the positive ratings of the combined new processing techniques according to the needs of the bee products. The importance of the models for process optimization on a large scale is also emphasized in the future.

Swarna Prashana - faith in the embrace of research

Childhood needs diverse nutritional requirements. Poor appetite, lifestyle changes, and poor digestion affects child immunity and make them prone to diseases. Kaumarabhritya, a branch of Ayurveda which deals in child and adolescent health care, has a unique concept of Swarna Prashana (SP) to promote generalized immunity and intellect. SP is commonly recommended to children between 0 and 12 years of age and given as a general health promoter to improve intellect, digestion, strength, immunity, longevity, and complexion. Multiple benefits of SP are mentioned in different Samhitas which needs to be explored on scientific background. Authors have highlighted content variabilities, plausible mechanisms, research tasks and potentials, lacunae, and future prospects about SP. This manuscript is a spotlight on current social, clinical, marketing, and scientific information of Swarna Prashana. SP can be a cost-effective, safe, infrastructure compatible, and prevention-centric approach to improve children's overall health status and has the potential to serve as a positive health care program for children.

Bee Products: A Representation of Biodiversity, Sustainability, and Health

Biodiversity strengthens the productivity of any ecosystem (agricultural land, forest, lake, etc.). The loss of biodiversity contributes to food and energy insecurity; increases vulnerability to natural disasters, such as floods or tropical storms; and decreases the quality of both life and health. Wild and managed bees play a key role in maintaining the biodiversity and in the recovery and restoration of degraded habitats. The novelty character of this perspective is to give an updated representation of bee products’ biodiversity, sustainability, and health relationship. The role of bees as bioindicators, their importance in the conservation of biodiversity, their ecosystem services, and the variety of the bee products are described herein. An overview of the main components of bee products, their biological potentials, and health is highlighted and detailed as follows: (i) nutritional value of bee products, (ii) bioactive profile of bee products and the related beneficial properties; (iii) focus on honey and health through a literature quantitative analysis, and (iv) bee products explored through databases. Moreover, as an example of the interconnection between health, biodiversity, and sustainability, a case study, namely the “Cellulose Park”, realized in Rome (Italy), is presented here. This case study highlights how bee activities can be used to assess and track changes in the quality of agricultural ecosystems—hive products could be valid indicators of the quality and health of the surrounding environment, as well as the changes induced by the biotic and abiotic factors that impact the sustainability of agricultural production and biodiversity conservation in peri-urban areas.

Treating (Recurrent) Vulvovaginal Candidiasis with Medical-Grade Honey-Concepts and Practical Considerations

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is a relapsing vaginal fungal infection caused by Candida species. The prevalence varies among age populations and can be as high as 9%. Treatment options are limited, and in 57% of the cases, relapses occur within six months after fluconazole maintenance therapy, which is the current standard of care. The pathogenesis of RVVC is multifactorial, and recent studies have demonstrated that the vaginal microenvironment and activity of the immune system have a strong influence on the disease. Medical-grade honey (MGH) has protective, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory activity and forms a putative alternative treatment. Clinical trials have demonstrated that honey can benefit the treatment of bacterial and Candida-mediated vaginal infections. We postulate that MGH will actively fight ongoing infections; eradicate biofilms; and modulate the vaginal microenvironment by its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and immunomodulatory properties, and subsequently may decrease the number of relapses when compared to fluconazole. The MGH formulation L-Mesitran Soft has stronger antimicrobial activity against various Candida species than its raw honey. In advance of a planned randomized controlled clinical trial, we present the setup of a study comparing L-Mesitran Soft with fluconazole and its practical considerations.

The Effect of Honey on Lipid Profiles: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Controlled Clinical Trials

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).

Conventional and Organic Honeys as a Source of Water- and Ethanol-Soluble Molecules with Nutritional and Antioxidant Characteristics

The benefits of natural honeybee products (e.g., honey, royal jelly, beeswax, propolis, beevenom and pollen) to the immune system are remarkable, and many of them are involved in the induction of antibody production, maturation of immune cells and stimulation of the immune system. The type of plants in the geographical area, climatic conditions and production method have a significantly influence on the nutritional quality of honey. However, this variability can influence consumer liking by the sensory attributes of the product. The aim of this work was to compare the most popular honeys from Poland in terms of nutritional value, organoleptic properties and antioxidant activity. In the study, five varieties of honey (honeydew, forest, buckwheat, linden and dandelion) from conventional and organic production methods were tested. The nutritional characteristics of honey samples included acidity, content of water, sugars, vitamin C, HMF and phenolics (total and flavonoids), while honey color, taste, aroma and consistency were investigated in the organoleptic characteristics. The antioxidant activity was determined in water- and ethanol-soluble honey extracts using DPPH and ORAC tests. The results showed that organoleptic and nutritional characteristics of popular Polish honeys differ significantly in relation to plant source and production method. The significant effect of honey variety on the content of HMF, saccharose and phenolics, as well as acidity and antioxidant capacity were noted. The impact of variety and variety × production method interaction was significant in the case of the content of vitamin C, glucose and fructose. A visible difference of buckwheat and forest honeys from other samples was observed. The highest content of total phenolics with antioxidant activity based on the SET mechanism was found in buckwheat honeys, while forest honeys were richer in flavonoids.

Therapeutic Properties of Honey for the Management of Wounds; Is There a Role in the Armamentarium of Diabetic Foot Ulcer Treatment? Results From In vitro and In vivo Studies

Diabetic foot ulcers are one of the most dreadful complications of diabetes mellitus and efforts to accelerate diabetic wound healing are of paramount importance to prevent ulcer infections and subsequent lower-limb amputations. There are several treatment approaches for the management of diabetic foot ulcers and honey seems to be a safe and cost-effective therapeutic approach on top of standard of care. The aim of this review was to summarize the therapeutic properties of honey and the data regarding its possible favorable effects on diabetic wound healing. A literature search of articles from 1986 until April 2021 was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library to assess for studies examining the therapeutic wound healing properties of honey, it's in vitro effect, and the efficacy and/or mechanism of action of several types of honey used for the treatment of diabetic animal wounds. Honey has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties and in vitro studies of keratinocytes and fibroblasts, as well as studies in diabetic animal models show that treatment with honey is associated with increased re-epithelialization and collagen production, higher wound contraction, and faster wound healing. The use of honey could be a promising approach for the management of diabetic foot ulcers.

The effect of Apis dorsata honey as complementary therapy on IL-37 levels and fatigue in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study is to determine the effect of Apis dorsata Honey as a complementary therapy on IL-37 levels and fatigue in breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

METHOD

The study used a quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design with a control group. A total of 30 subjects were recruited using a concurrent sampling technique. The intervention group consisted of 15 subjects who received oral honey at a dose of 13 ml (1 tablespoon × 3) for 15 days, and the control group consisted of 15 subjects. The groups' samples were chosen at random. The Fatigue Symptom Inventory (FSI) was used to assess the side effects of chemotherapy.

RESULTS

Although the effect of Apis dorsata Honey on IL-37 levels was not statistically significant (p > 0.05), the group given honey experienced a clinically significant increase in IL-37 levels, with a mean before (632.37514.93) and post (632.37514.93). (1,003.021,248.88). Fatigue decreased statistically significantly in the group given mean honey values prior to 13.205.59 and after 11.805.07 (p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

Honey administration increases IL-37 levels clinically, though the increase is not statistically significant. Giving honey to patients with breast cancer can help alleviate fatigue caused by chemotherapy.

Therapeutic Potential of Bioactive Compounds in Honey for Treating Osteoarthritis

Dysregulation of joint tissue homeostasis induces articular degenerative changes and musculoskeletal diseases such as osteoarthritis. This pathology represents the first cause of motor disability in individuals over 60 years of age, impacting their quality of life and the costs of health systems. Nowadays, pharmacological treatments for cartilage disease have failed to achieve full tissue regeneration, resulting in a functional loss of the joint; therefore, joint arthroplasty is the gold standard procedure to cure this pathology in severe cases of Osteoarthritis. A different treatment is the use of anti-inflammatory drugs which mitigate pain and inflammation in some degree, but without significant inhibition of disease progression. In this sense, new therapeutic alternatives based on natural compounds have been proposed to delay osteoarthritis progression, particularly those agents that regulate articular homeostasis. Preclinical studies have shown a therapeutic application of honey and its bioactive compounds, ranging from treating wounds, coughs, skin infections, and are also used as a biological stimulant by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this article, we reviewed the current medicinal applications of honey with particular emphasis on its use regulating articular homeostasis by inhibiting inflammation and oxidative stress.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use by Patients From the Gulf Region Seen in the International Practice of a Tertiary Care Medical Center

Background

Patients from various countries may have unique patterns of using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and unique reasons for using it.

Objective

Our objective was to assess the use of CAM among patients from the Gulf region attending the Executive and International Health Program of the Department of General Internal Medicine at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

Methods

This cross-sectional survey was administered to all patients who were from the Gulf region and were undergoing outpatient evaluation in the Executive and International Health Program. After their initial medical evaluation by a physician, the patients were invited to anonymously complete the modified International Complementary and Alternative Medicine Questionnaire.

Results

The survey was completed by 69 patients (41 women, 27 men; mean age, 45.4 years). The most frequently seen providers for CAM treatments were physicians (71.0% of patients), spiritual healers (29.0%), and chiropractors (20.3%). CAM treatments most frequently received from a physician were massage therapy (51.0%), hijama (38.8%), spiritual healing (24.5%), and acupuncture or herbs (16.3%). The most frequently used dietary supplements were ginger (42.0%), bee products (30.4%), and garlic (27.5%). The most common self-help therapies were prayers for health (68.1%), meditation (15.9%), and relaxation techniques (11.6%). CAM therapy, including visits to CAM providers, was used by 92.8% of patients. CAM was mainly used to improve well-being and long-term health conditions rather than for acute illnesses.

Conclusion

The use of CAM was high among our patients from the Gulf region, and the CAM therapies used by this population differed from the ones used by US patients. Physicians providing care to patients from the Gulf region should be aware of how the use of CAM may affect the care needs of these patients.

The Isorhamnetin-Containing Fraction of Philippine Honey Produced by the Stingless Bee Tetragonula biroi Is an Antibiotic against Multidrug-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

Honey exhibits antibacterial and antioxidant activities that are ascribed to its diverse secondary metabolites. In the Philippines, the antibacterial and antioxidant activities, as well as the bioactive metabolite contents of the honey, have not been thoroughly described. In this report, we investigated the in vitro antibacterial and antioxidant activities of honey from Apis mellifera and Tetragonula biroi, identified the compound responsible for the antibacterial activity, and compared the observed bioactivities and metabolite profiles to that of Manuka honey, which is recognized for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties. The secondary metabolite contents of honey were extracted using a nonionic polymeric resin followed by antibacterial and antioxidant assays, and then spectroscopic analyses of the phenolic and flavonoid contents. Results showed that honey extracts produced by T. biroi exhibits antibiotic activity against Staphylococcal pathogens as well as high antioxidant activity, which are correlated to its high flavonoid and phenolic content as compared to honey produced by A. mellifera. The bioassay-guided fractionation paired with Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LCMS) and tandem MS analyses found the presence of the flavonoid isorhamnetin (3-methylquercetin) in T. biroi honey extract, which was demonstrated as one of the compounds with inhibitory activity against multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus ATCC BAA-44. Our findings suggest that Philippine honey produced by T. biroi is a potential nutraceutical that possesses antibiotic and antioxidant activities.

Honey authenticity: analytical techniques, state of the art and challenges

Honey is a high-value, globally consumed, food product featuring a high market price strictly related to its origin. Moreover, honey origin has to be clearly stated on the label, and quality schemes are prescribed based on its geographical and botanical origin. Therefore, to enhance food quality, it is of utmost importance to develop analytical methods able to accurately and precisely discriminate honey origin. In this study, an all-time scientometric evaluation of the field is provided for the first time using a structured keyword on the Scopus database. The bibliometric analysis pinpoints that the botanical origin discrimination was the most studied authenticity issue, and chromatographic methods were the most frequently used for its assessment. Based on these results, we comprehensively reviewed analytical techniques that have been used in honey authenticity studies. Analytical breakthroughs and bottlenecks on methodologies to assess honey quality parameters using separation, bioanalytical, spectroscopic, elemental and isotopic techniques are presented. Emphasis is given to authenticity markers, and the necessity to apply chemometric tools to reveal them. Altogether, honey authenticity is an ever-growing field, and more advances are expected that will further secure honey quality.

Improving Reproductive Performance and Health of Mammals Using Honeybee Products

Honeybee products have positive effects on the reproductive performance of mammals. Many honeybee product constituents are biologically active, with antioxidant, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antifungal, wound-healing, and cardio-protective properties. Honeybee products also improve male and female fertility rates by enhancing gamete cryopreservation, in vitro maturation and fertilization, and embryo development. Previously published studies confirmed their efficacy for alleviating reproductive toxicity caused by contaminants and lifestyle habits that impair overall health and well-being. However, high-dose oral administration of honeybee products may adversely affect the reproductive system, and unfavorable effects were alleviated by treatment cessation. For this reason, this review proposes that bioactive components from bee products can be used as a strategy for improving the reproductive performance and health of mammals.

COVID-19 prevalence and predictors in United States adults during peak stay-at-home orders

Background

Early recognition of COVID-19 cases is essential for effective public health measures aimed at isolation of individuals infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS–COV-2). The objective of this study was to describe characteristics, self-reported symptoms, and predictors of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection in a community-based sample.

Methods and findings

This was a cross-sectional nationwide survey of adults in the US conducted between April 24 through May 13, 2020. The survey targeted a representative sample of approximately 5,000 respondents. The rate of COVID-19 cases and testing, most frequently reported symptoms, symptom severity, treatment received, impact of COVID-19 on mental and physical health, and factors predictive of testing positive were assessed. Most of the 5,203 participants (85.6%) reported no COVID-19-like symptoms. Of the 747 (14.5%) participants reporting COVID-19-like symptoms, 367 (49.1%) obtained a diagnostic test. Eighty-nine participants (24.3%) reported a positive COVID-19 test result, representing 1.7% of the total sample. For those testing positive, the most common symptoms were dry cough, fever, and shortness of breath/difficulty breathing. Those who tested positive were more likely to report greater symptom severity versus those who tested negative. Severe dry cough, new loss of taste or smell, trouble waking up, living with someone experiencing symptoms, recent international travel, respiratory issues, and reporting ethnicity of Black or African American were predictive of testing positive.

Conclusions

This study assessed the impact of COVID-19 using community-level self-reported data across the US during the peak of most stay at home’ orders. Self-reported symptoms and risk factors identified in this study are consistent with the clinical profile emerging for COVID-19. In the absence of widespread testing, this study demonstrates the utility of a representative US community-based sample to provide direct-reported symptoms and outcomes to quickly identify high-risk individuals who are likely to test positive and should consider taking greater precautions.

Randomised assessormasked trial evaluating topical manuka honey (Optimel) in treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of manuka honey eye-drops in the treatment of meibomian gland dysfunction.

METHODS

This is an assessor-masked (single-blind), randomised controlled trial comparing conventional treatment group with interventional group using Optimel 16% manuka honey topical eye-drops. 59 patients were recruited to the study and randomised into two groups: one given regular lubricants and the other given Optimel 16% manuka honey eye-drops. The Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness (SPEED) score was measured at baseline and on follow-up. 4 patients were lost to follow-up. Multiple ocular surface parameters were graded from slit lamp examination by a masked assessor. Results were compared from baseline to follow-up date 3 weeks later.

RESULTS

Patients in the conventional treatment group demonstrated minimal difference in SPEED score at 3-week follow-up (mean difference 1.087, p=0.183), which was not statistically significant. However, measurements of tear film break-up time, corneal surface stain (Oxford), lid margin, conjunctival redness, as well as meibum quality and expressibility showed significant improvements at 3 weeks (p<0.01). Patients in the manuka honey eye-drops group showed significant difference after 3 weeks in SPEED score (mean difference 2.53, p=0.006), as well as in lid margin redness, conjunctival redness, corneal surface stain (Oxford), and meibum quality and expressibility (p=0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Optimel 16% manuka honey eye-drops showed significant improvement in symptoms and objective signs in meibomian gland dysfunction and are an effective alternative treatment for meibomian gland dysfunction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT04457648.

A Sustainable Niche Market: How Does Honey Behave?

The global honey market has witnessed constant growth over recent decades, especially in Asian regions. In recent years, the increase in export flows of this product throughout the world has raised the issue of the lack of international import standards and regulations, making trade susceptible to variables that are not only economic, but also social or political. The objective of this study is therefore to explore, using the econometric methodology of gravity models, what the determinants of the international honey trade are, both economic and socio-cultural, and to verify whether a niche market, such as the one being examined, is influenced by these covariates, in a similar manner to the main commodities of the agri-food sector, or if honey displays a unique behavior. The results show that honey market behavior is not statistically different from that of the main agri-food products already studied and that the cultural distance, introduced as a covariate, does not have a significant influence.

Antiviral and Immunomodulatory Effects of Phytochemicals from Honey against COVID-19: Potential Mechanisms of Action and Future Directions

The new coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has recently put the world under stress, resulting in a global pandemic. Currently, there are no approved treatments or vaccines, and this severe respiratory illness has cost many lives. Despite the established antimicrobial and immune-boosting potency described for honey, to date there is still a lack of evidence about its potential role amid COVID-19 outbreak. Based on the previously explored antiviral effects and phytochemical components of honey, we review here evidence for its role as a potentially effective natural product against COVID-19. Although some bioactive compounds in honey have shown potential antiviral effects (i.e., methylglyoxal, chrysin, caffeic acid, galangin and hesperidinin) or enhancing antiviral immune responses (i.e., levan and ascorbic acid), the mechanisms of action for these compounds are still ambiguous. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work exclusively summarizing all these bioactive compounds with their probable mechanisms of action as antiviral agents, specifically against SARS-CoV-2.

Multi-element composition, physicochemical and pollen attributes of honeys from the Paraguaçu River (Bahia, Brazil) by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES)

Honey is a food of nutritional, medicinal and commercial importance. The physicochemical characteristics, pollen spectrum and mineral composition of eighteen honey samples obtained from regions (Cachoeira, Coqueiros, Maragojipe and Santiago do Iguape) near the Paraguaçu River, Bahia, Brazil were evaluated. Botanical families Asteraceae, Leguminosae, Malvaceae, Myrtaceae and Palmae were most frequently found. Five samples had water contents above the maximum limit established by the Brazilian legislation (> 20%). The mineral composition was determined by ICP OES, after microwave digestion. Ca, K, Mg and Na were measured (mg Kg-1) in the range from: 18.85 to 79.61; 366.74 to 1214.98; 12.46 to 44.59 and 11.56 to 85.39, respectively. Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn had variable concentration ranges, between 0.05 and 6.13 mg Kg-1. Al, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Ni, Pb, Se and V showed values below the LOD. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) demonstrated that there are no similarities of mineral composition among honey samples.