Um Honey: A Natural Antimicrobial in Pharmaceutical Pratice

Abstract

Honey, known for its medicinal properties in traditional medical practice, has brought a new focus in modern pharmaceutical practice as a potential natural antimicrobial. The use of honey as an antimicrobial agent is nothing new; it has always been used historically as an anti-infective and wound-healing agent, and modern research certainly does not disappoint in revealing the mechanisms of antimicrobial action. Honey is rich in phenolic compounds, which play a crucial role. In fact, these compounds have been proven to be substances responsible for honey's antibacterial activity and can prevent the growth of various pathogenic microorganisms (Cianciosi et al., 2018). Regarding the types of honey, Manuka honey is the most popular due to its high content of methylglyoxal, a compound with impressive antimicrobial properties, capable of killing even bacterial strains that are resistant to the effects of antibiotics (Johnston et al., 2018; Dahiya et al., 2024). A review by Kwakman and Zaat (2012) supported that honey contains many antibacterial compounds that together can contribute to fighting infections. Along with its bacteria-fighting qualities, honey has been shown to exhibit wound healing and treatment qualities. The use of honey to heal wounds has been established as effective for controlling inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration (Minden-Birkenmaier & Bowlin, 2018). Mandal and Mandal (2011) in one of their articles discuss the role of honey as a substitute for synthetic antimicrobials, as well as the authenticity of the pharmaceutical and clinical use of honey. Although the use of honey for pharmaceutical purposes is highly promising, there is still a need for standardization to a certain extent, since the manufacture of medicines must be safe and effective. The document instructs the authorities to strictly control and standardize the use of honey for restricted therapeutic purposes in order to achieve maximum efficacy. In a word, the literature review is clear on the indications that honey has potential antimicrobial qualities and can therefore be applied to the health field. However, much more research is needed to establish clear guidelines on how to apply them in clinical health and ensure that pharmaceutical products with honey are safe, effective and properly regulated.