Eczema is a condition that commonly leads to significant dryness and itching. This occurs because eczema affects the skin's natural protective barrier, particularly its outermost layer. Applying lotions, creams, and ointments can often alleviate these symptoms by reinforcing this protective layer. However, honey, a natural humectant found in most pantries, may offer similar benefits. A humectant is a substance that draws moisture into the skin and helps retain it. While more research is needed to definitively establish honey's efficacy for eczema, existing knowledge suggests potential advantages.
Historical and Traditional Uses of Honey
Honey has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Egyptians, utilized honey for treating wounds and burns. It is also an integral part of Ayurveda, a traditional medicine system originating in India.
Honey's Natural Properties and Potential Benefits for Eczema
Honey possesses natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some research also suggests it may have a role in cancer prevention due to the presence of compounds called flavonoids and polyphenols, which are believed to act as antioxidants that inhibit cellular damage.
While direct evidence for honey as an eczema treatment is limited, some small studies indicate it may help with the following:
- Preventing or treating skin infections
- Accelerating wound healing
- Reversing bacterial resistance
- Controlling overactive immune cells
- Easing pain and itching on the ears
Manuka Honey and Other Varieties
Manuka honey, produced by bees in Australia and New Zealand, has garnered significant scientific attention. It contains high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound thought to contribute to its potent antibacterial effects compared to other types of honey. Further research is necessary to understand its specific implications for eczema care.
Other types of honey that have been studied include:
- Kanuka honey
- Malaysian tualang honey
- Natural, unprocessed honey
It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any home remedies, including the use of honey for eczema. A doctor can discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks, helping you determine the most suitable course of action.
Understanding "Eczema Honey" and Medical-Grade Honey
Products marketed as "eczema honey" or those claiming high MGO content are often available online and in stores. However, these products are not regulated as medications, meaning their composition and efficacy are not guaranteed. For application on damaged skin, it is recommended to use medical-grade honey. This type of honey, used for wound treatment, is sterile, meaning it has undergone processing to eliminate harmful bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of infection.
How to Make a Honey Dressing at Home
If considering a honey dressing, follow these steps using medical-grade honey:
- Wash your hands thoroughly.
- Apply a layer of medical-grade honey to the affected itchy areas.
- Cover the area with sterile gauze or a bandage.
- Leave the dressing on overnight.
- Gently wash off the honey in the morning.
This regimen can be followed nightly for one week. It is essential to perform a patch test on a small area of skin first. Wait a few minutes to observe for any signs of redness, swelling, or increased itching before proceeding with a larger application.
Safety Precautions and Allergic Reactions
While honey is generally considered safe for topical use, allergic reactions are possible, especially for individuals with bee or pollen allergies.
Seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, which may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Throat tightness
- Rapid heart rate
- Hives or swelling
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fainting
Honey should not be given to children younger than 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism, a condition caused by the growth of harmful bacteria in their digestive system.
For serious cuts and burns, always seek emergency medical care or call 911.
Honey's Role in Eczema Management
Eczema encompasses a range of inflammatory skin conditions characterized by irritated and itchy skin. Emerging research suggests that honey's antimicrobial properties may effectively help manage eczema and prevent associated skin infections. The use of medical-grade honey is particularly emphasized for these applications.
A small study in 2017 indicated that applying manuka honey to atopic dermatitis lesions for seven consecutive days resulted in significant improvement. Researchers propose that honey's antibacterial properties may help combat skin inflammation. It is noted that Staphylococcus aureus bacteria commonly colonize the skin of individuals with atopic dermatitis, affecting 70-90% of cases.
A 2016 review highlighted the global recognition of honey's therapeutic skin-healing properties, particularly for wounds and burns. According to Dermatology Partners in Colorado, honey's anti-inflammatory effects can be beneficial in treating eczema. The flavonoids present in honey, a type of antioxidant, can counteract the damaging effects of free radicals and inhibit the action of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators.
Honey as an Antibacterial Agent
Individuals with eczema are more susceptible to skin infections, partly due to a higher prevalence of staphylococcus bacteria on their skin. While the exact mechanism by which honey fights bacteria is still being investigated, one theory suggests that it draws moisture away from germs, hindering their survival. Another hypothesis posits that a synergistic interaction between sugars, proteins, and lipids in honey inhibits bacterial growth.
Honey's Healing Properties
The use of honey for wound healing spans millennia, with historical accounts of its application in ancient Rome for battlefield injuries. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has even cleared the sale and marketing of honey-based wound dressings.
Scientists believe honey promotes healing through several mechanisms:
- Managing inflammation
- Stimulating the growth of new skin cells
- Facilitating tissue repair with reduced scarring
Honey as a Moisturizer
The sugars in honey function as humectants, effectively preventing skin dehydration. As moisturizing the skin is a key aspect of eczema management, honey can play a valuable role in this regard. Daniel P. states that honey is a remarkably thick emollient that aids in trapping moisture within the skin.