Medical-Grade Honey (Manuka)

How it works

Its wound effects are attributed to high osmolarity, low pH and hydrogen peroxide generation, together with non-peroxide antibacterial activity, which create an environment unfavourable to bacteria and support autolytic debridement.

Prescribing in practice

• Use only sterilised, medical-grade honey products, not culinary honey, to avoid introducing contaminants into the wound.
• Application may cause a transient drawing or stinging sensation, and honey is generally avoided in patients with a known sensitivity to bee products.
• Select dressings and assess wound suitability in line with tissue-viability guidance and current prescribing references.

Monitoring

Review the wound regularly for progress, exudate level and any signs of irritation or infection, adjusting the dressing regimen accordingly.

Counselling the patient

• Explain that this is a sterile medical honey dressing, not food-grade honey.
• Warn that a temporary stinging or drawing sensation can occur after application.
• Advise the patient to report increasing pain, spreading redness or discharge.

Evidence & guidelines

Medical-grade honey is an established option within wound care; selection should follow tissue-viability and current prescribing references rather than substituting culinary honey.