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Antimicrobial effect of different types of honey on Staphylococcus aureus

Saad B Almasaudi1, Alaa A M Al-Nahari1, El Sayed M Abd El-Ghany2

  • 1Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences
|September 1, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Manuka honey demonstrated potent bactericidal effects against Staphylococcus aureus, including antibiotic-resistant strains. Other honey types like Sidr and Nigella sativa showed bacteriostatic properties, highlighting honey

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

  • Honey possesses known antimicrobial properties effective against various bacteria.
  • Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA), is a significant human pathogen.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare the antimicrobial efficacy of five distinct honey types against Staphylococcus aureus.
  • To determine if honey exhibits bactericidal or bacteriostatic activity against sensitive and resistant S. aureus strains.

Main Methods:

  • Five honey types (Manuka UMF +20, Manuka UMF +16, Active +10 Manuka, Sidr, Nigella sativa) were tested.
  • Bactericidal/bacteriostatic activity was assessed against methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistant S. aureus.
  • Honey concentrations of 20% and 10% (v/v) were evaluated for inhibitory effects.

Main Results:

  • Manuka honey exhibited the strongest antimicrobial activity.
  • Manuka Honey UMF +20 demonstrated bactericidal effects against both sensitive and resistant S. aureus.
  • Sidr and Nigella sativa honey displayed bacteriostatic activity, inhibiting bacterial growth but not killing the bacteria.

Conclusions:

  • The antimicrobial efficacy of honey against S. aureus is dependent on honey type and concentration.
  • Manuka honey, particularly UMF +20, is highly effective as a bactericidal agent against S. aureus.
  • Further research is warranted to investigate honey's potential in combating bacterial resistance.
Keywords:
Manuka HoneyMethicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)Nigella sativa honeySaudi ArabiaSidr honey

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