Revolutionizing non-conventional wound healing using honey by simultaneously targeting multiple molecular mechanisms

Area of Science:

• * Integrative medicine and natural product research.
• * Exploration of honey's therapeutic applications beyond conventional wound care.

Background:

• * Rising multidrug-resistant pathogens increase the burden of hospital-acquired infections and wound complications.
• * Honey is primarily used topically for its antibacterial and wound healing properties.
• * Limited research exists on honey's therapeutic use via non-conventional administration routes.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To review studies on honey's efficacy in non-conventional applications.
• * To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying honey's therapeutic effects.
• * To highlight honey as a potential alternative to conventional antimicrobial therapies.

Main Methods:

• * Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating honey's use in subcutaneous, intra-socket, abdominal, and oral administration.
• * Analysis of clinical outcomes in novel indications like post-colon surgery and mucositis.
• * Examination of molecular pathways involved in honey's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial actions.

Main Results:

• * Honey demonstrated beneficial effects in novel applications, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activities.
• * Molecular mechanisms involve TLR4 signaling for pro-inflammatory effects and NRF2 pathways for anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions.
• * Honey promotes healing, epithelialization, and reduces wound dehiscence.

Conclusions:

• * Honey offers a valuable alternative to conventional therapies for reducing nosocomial infections.
• * Standardized medical-grade honey may provide optimized and safe treatment options.
• * Further research into non-conventional honey applications is warranted.