Latest news with #honey
Health Line
a day ago
- Health
- Health Line
What Are the Most Effective Natural Antibiotics?
Certain plant extracts, essential oils, and even foods have antibiotic properties. For example, some food and vegetable extracts can prevent the growth of bacteria in food. This includes garlic, honey, and certain herbs. Antibiotics are used to kill or inhibit bacteria growth. Although you might think of antibiotics as modern medicine, they've actually been around for centuries. Like many of today's antibiotics, the original antibiotics are derived from natural sources. Sometimes, the properties of these natural sources extend beyond the food and can aid in your personal hygiene. Cranberry extract contains antibacterial and antioxidant compounds, making it a home remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs). Herbs can be antibiotics, too. A small sampling study of 58 Chinese plants found that 23 had antibacterial properties and 15 had antifungal properties. A 2014 study found that an herbal therapy was just as effective as a chemical antibiotic in treating a small intestine bacterial overgrowth disorder. Keep reading to learn about five natural remedies with antibiotic effects you can try at home. Honey Honey is one of the oldest known antibiotics, dating to ancient times. Egyptians frequently used honey as a natural antibiotic and skin protectant. Honey contains hydrogen peroxide, which may account for some of its antibacterial properties. It also has a high sugar content, which can help stop the growth of certain bacteria. Additionally, honey has a low pH level. This works to pull moisture away from bacteria, causing them to become dehydrated and die off. To use honey as an antibiotic, apply it directly to the wound or infected area. The honey can help kill off the bacteria and aid in the healing process. If possible, opt for raw Manuka honey. This form of honey offers the most health benefits. You can also ingest honey to aid in the treatment of internal infections. For a soothing treat, simply swallow a whole tablespoon or stir it into a warm cup of herbal tea. Honey is generally safe to use on the skin or in the body, though you should never give honey to an infant under a year old. Instead, consult your healthcare professional for an appropriate alternative. Garlic extract Garlic has long been thought to have antimicrobial properties. A 2021 review concluded that the organosulfur compounds in garlic are effective against a wide variety of bacteria. You can purchase garlic concentrate or extract at your local health food store. You may also be able to make your own by soaking a few garlic cloves in olive oil. Garlic is generally safe to ingest, but large doses might cause internal bleeding. Up to two cloves per day is considered an acceptable dosage. If you're taking a garlic supplement, be sure to follow the dosage directions as provided. If you're taking blood-thinning medication, consult your healthcare provider before using garlic as an antibiotic. Large doses of garlic can amplify the effects of this medication. You can also apply garlic concentrate directly to a wound or blemish. Myrrh extract Many people are familiar with myrrh, but its ability to ward off harmful germs is less well-known. Researchers in a 2000 study concluded that an extract of myrrh could kill off several everyday pathogens. This includes: E. coli Staphylococcus aureus Pseudomonas aeruginosa Candida albicans A 2020 in vitro study found that myrrh oil preferentially kills nongrowing bacteria without the organisms building any resistance. Typically, nongrowing bacteria tend to be more antibiotic-resistant than growing bacteria. Myrrh is generally well-tolerated, but ingesting it may cause diarrhea. If myrrh is applied to the skin, it's possible to experience a minor skin rash. If consumed in large doses, myrrh may cause heart problems. Myrrh is typically prepackaged, so be sure to follow the dosage instructions on the label. Thyme essential oil Many all-natural household cleaners use thyme essential oil. This oil has been shown to be especially helpful against antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In a 2011 study, researchers tested the effectiveness of both lavender and thyme essential oils. Both oils were tested in a pool of over 120 strains of bacteria. The researchers found thyme essential oil to be more effective at killing bacteria than lavender essential oil. Thyme essential oil is for external use only. You shouldn't take thyme oil by mouth. Before applying to the affected area, be sure to dilute the essential oil with equal parts carrier oil. Common carrier oils include coconut and olive oils. Applying undiluted essential oil to the skin may cause inflammation and irritation. People with high blood pressure or hyperthyroid problems shouldn't use thyme essential oil. Oregano essential oil Carvacrol is an ingredient found in oregano essential oil. It has important therapeutic properties that further activate healing in the body when inhaled. Carvacrol in oregano oil has been found to help heal gastric ulcers and reduce inflammation. To treat fungal infections on your skin, add one drop of oregano essential oil per teaspoon of a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil. Apply the mixture to the affected area. You can also diffuse oregano oil in the air to help clear sinus infections. You shouldn't ingest oregano essential oil or use undiluted essential oil on the skin. You may also be able to eradicate bacteria in the home with a homemade cleaning agent made of: oregano essential oil vinegar water lemon The bottom line Be sure to discuss your interest in natural antibiotics with your healthcare professional. They can help you explore your options and help you weigh the potential benefits and risks of each regimen. You shouldn't take antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. Taking antibiotics for the sake of taking antibiotics can lead your body to build up a resistance to the medication. You can learn ways to help prevent antibiotic resistance here.
Times of Oman
7 days ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman's Wilayat of Manah yields 3 tonnes of honey in current season
Manah: The production of honey, including both Sidr (jujube tree) honey and Samar (Acacia tree) varieties, in the Wilayat of Manah in A'Dakhiliyah Governorate for this season reached approximately 3 tonnes. The number of beekeepers in the wilayat exceeds 100, managing around 1,400 beehives. Mohammed bin Hareb Al Bahlani, Director of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources in the Wilayat of Manah, stated that honeybee gathering is a profession of great interest to broad segments of society in the wilayat and serves as a vital source of income for many families engaged in this profession. It contributes to supporting the national economy by meeting the local market's demand for various types of honey and promoting it both within and outside the Sultanate of Oman through participation in specialised festivals and events, he said. He added that this year's production, particularly of Samar (Acacia tree) honey, saw better yields compared to the previous year due to the availability of pasture and the absence of pests and diseases in the hives. This led to increased availability and a noticeable drop in prices for consumers. Reflecting on his experience in local honey production, beekeeper Nasser bin Hamoud Al Busaidi noted that his journey with Omani honey gathering began 40 years ago, highlighting the challenges of collecting honey while traversing valleys and mountains. He explained that transporting hives outside the wilayat is costly, though some beekeepers prefer it due to drought and high temperatures. This year, however, favourable conditions—such as limited rainfall and abundant Samar tree blossoms—resulted in good production. He further noted variations in the taste and quality of honey across Oman's governorates due to higher coastal humidity compared to inland areas, despite bees requiring minimal humidity. Additionally, he emphasised that beekeeping provides a stable and rewarding income for many, with prices remaining affordable, thereby adding value to the local economy. Effective marketing efforts, particularly among youth and through various communication channels, as well as participation in ongoing festivals and events, further contribute to this sector. It is worth noting that the number of beekeepers in A'Dakhiliyah Governorate stands at approximately 1,639, with honey production last year (2024) reaching around 168 tonnes of Sidr (jujube tree) and Samar (Acacia tree) honey. This figure is expected to increase by the end of the current season.
ABC News
27-05-2025
- General
- ABC News
Bee the change: How a young Samoan beekeeper is fighting to protect these precious pollinators
World Bee Day is a chance to recognise the tiny but mighty workers that keep our ecosystems thriving. In Samoa, one young woman is doing her part to protect these buzzing heroes. Three years ago, what started as a hobby for electrical engineer Luna-Rossa Lomitusi-Ape has grown into a thriving bee farm, where she now manages nine full beehives, two 'baby hives', and helps care for other hives in rural villages across Apia. Initially, the 24-year-old told Nesia Daily she was torn between "bees or fashion" when deciding on a small business, but it was her father's advice that helped her choose: "it's better to choose the bees because at least you get the honey." Luna-Rossa's trick to reducing the amount of times she gets stung by her bees is "inner peace" as bees will see you as a threat if you are feeling anxious or stressed. ( ) Apiaries like Luna-Rossa's are now part of a growing movement to protect Samoa's declining bee population — an issue that's becoming more prevalent with each season. "We have really bad rain patterns now," the young beekeeper explained. "This is the longest rainy season we've had. You make less honey because of course the honey is for the bees during times of shortage." Alongside threats like habitat destruction and climate change, Luna-Rossa says bees in Samoa are often destroyed simply because people want to avoid getting bitten or stung - something she believes comes down to a "lack of awareness of the importance of bees." As well as tending to her own bees, Luna-Rossa also removes them from residential properties. ( ) Despite the challenges, Luna-Rossa remains passionate about bees and the critical role they play in our food systems and environment. If you want to foster a more bee-friendly environment, she suggests an easy way to start is by growing "pollinator-friendly plants in front of your houses, on your little balconies in the city, because bees are literally everywhere."
Telegraph
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Telegraph
Meghan shares video of herself bee-keeping with Lilibet
The Duchess of Sussex has shared a video of herself bee-keeping with her daughter Lilibet. The Instagram video showed her walking towards an apiary hand-in-hand with her three-year-old, with the pair dressed in matching bee-keeping suits. It was released after the Duchess sold jars of wildflower honey with honeycomb for $28 (£22), as part of the As Ever range she launched last month. The limited-edition honey, which has sold out, was 'inspired by Meghan's own appreciation for the art of harvesting this natural delight at her family home in Montecito, California', her website said. She has previously spoken of her interest in bee-keeping in With Love, Meghan, her Netflix series. The first episode opened with her saying, 'I've got good vibes', as she opened a hive. 'It's like also that little reminder to do something that scares you a little bit,' she told viewers. 'I think that's part of it, but I'm trying to stay in the calm of it, because it's beautiful to be this connected.' In the latest video, released on her social media account, the Duchess was seen holding her daughter's hand as they walked towards the hive, accompanied by the 1960s song Sugar, Sugar. The Duchess let go of Lilibet's hand for a brief moment when they neared the hive, leaning down to rub her daughter's back before taking her hand again. It is one of a number of intimate images of her family life the 43-year-old has shared with her 2.9 million Instagram followers in the last week. She posted a montage of photographs to mark the seven-year anniversary of her wedding to Prince Harry on May 19. Among the images were numerous pictures of the couple embracing, and one of the Duke tenderly cradling the head of one of their children as a newborn. There was also a baby scan labelled 'Archie', a photo of the Duke kissing Lili on the forehead, and a number of notes, including one in Meghan's handwriting that read: 'Our love story.' The Duchess spoke candidly about motherhood in the latest episode of her podcast, admitting it was not how she 'envisioned it' and saying she had previously planned to give speeches 'with a baby on my hip'.
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Dog owner convinced one sweet ingredient cured her pet's cancer
A dog diagnosed with an aggressive cancer has made a recovery after her owner started spreading honey on her food. Libby Basford's golden cocker spaniel, Matilda, was diagnosed with oral melanoma and the vet booked Matilda in for surgery. The painful lump in the back corner of her mouth was removed successfully. But in less than five months, the cancerous growth had returned and doubled in size, leading to her undergoing a second surgery. After being removed again, small tumours appeared all over Matilda's mouth. Vets advised Libby that a third surgery would mean that a large portion of Matilda's mouth would be removed. Libby spoke to a holistic vet, who suggested she try a natural honey, which can be squeezed onto food. READ MORE: Drivers using blue badges warned 'we cannot continue to ignore this issue' READ MORE: Tesco and Asda will offer full refunds without receipts if bring popular snack back after recall After six weeks, the tumours inside Matilda's mouth shrank and eventually disappeared. Libby said: "There is no doubt in my mind that honey is powerful stuff. Personally, I am convinced it was the honey that saved Matilda and made the melanomas in her mouth shrink and disappear completely. 'I didn't want Matilda to have chemo and declined an oral melanoma vaccine. Matilda is now walking, jumping and racing - a real testament to the power of the have had two previous dogs who succumbed to cancer, and I really wish we had known about it then.' Matilda was nine at the time she was diagnosed in 2021. Four years later, aged 13, she is a healthy dog with no signs of cancer. Libby gives her a single maintenance dose of honey every week. The honey is a natural product which is high in a potent iminosugar called Iminose A. Dr Robert Nash, owner of Dr Nash Glyco Health, said: 'Iminosugars have not been studied by many scientists as they are difficult to detect and synthesise, yet they can have potent and varied effects. 'They are in many foods and herbal medicines, but are rarely noticed and measured. Many modern food plant varieties and supplements have had the iminosugars removed." Experts say honey has been linked to better health, although there is no evidence it can 'cure cancer'. Honey contains compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress — both of which are linked to cancer development. Honey is known for promoting wound healing and preventing infections, which can be helpful in cancer patients with wounds or compromised immunity. Some studies in test tubes and animals suggest that honey might inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells (like breast, colon, or prostate cancer cells), likely due to its antioxidant and pro-apoptotic (cell-killing) effects. But these are not clinical studies in humans. Iminosugars mimic the shape and size of sugars, so they can bind to enzymes that normally process sugars, particularly glycosidases (enzymes that break down complex carbohydrates). They act as competitive inhibitors, blocking the enzyme's activity. Some iminosugars are used to treat illnesses and viruses, and have been found to reduce blood sugar spikes.
