Manuka Honey Ringworm Treatment

The commonly occurring skin condition ringworm (tineas) is a fungal infection characterized by red circles or oval shapes on the skin. In contrary to what some people think ringworm is not caused by a worm. The fungal lesions typically have the shape of ring, hence the name ringworm. Other fungal infections are nail fungus, jock itch and athlete's foot.

Superficial dermal infections such as ringworm are very difficult to treat. Antibiotics are used relatively successful at treating bacteria but are less useful in destroying fungi.

Is Manuka honey an effective ringworm treatment?
One study compared the effects of different types of honey on certain types of fungi (dermatophytes)generally causing skin conditions such as ringworm and athletes foot.

Conclusion of this study: It could be that Manuka honey may be more effective [...] Which type of honey is most effective, and the practical usefulness of honey as a topical antifungal salve, will only be known if comparative clinical trials are conducted.

So this particular study did not show the unique properties of Manuka honey to be responsible for treating ringworm. Although more studies have to be conducted to get a better sight for now normal honey seems to be an equally effective ringworm treatment.

How To Use Honey as a Ringworm Treatment?
The Waikato Honey Unit recommends, as a guideline, to apply 20 ml of honey (1 ounce, about 25g) on a 10 cm by 10 cm (4 inch by 4 inch) pad. When bigger pads are used the amount should be adjusted accordingly. Another (waterproof) occlusive dressing should be added to keep the honey in contact with the ringworm infection and from oozing through the pad. Attach the dressings with silk tape or bandages.

This way you will prevent the honey from dripping. Since honey is sticky this might look like a downside. Why not buy a non-sticky ringworm lotion with Manuka honey? Well many, if not most, of these products contain other, sometimes harmful, ingredients as well. These can result in skin irritations. The beauty of using Manuka honey only is that this natural product shows no side effects at all.

How To Use Manuka Honey Internally

Manuka honey is used both as a skin care product and as a natural treatment for stomach and throat conditions. When using it for heartburn, acid reflux, to calm down an upset stomach, stomach ulcers, stomach flu (gastroenteritis), IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), diarrhea or other internal complaints there are some things to take into consideration which will add to the efficacy of the honey. Here are a few directions on how to optimally use Manuka honey for digestive purposes.

The honey should be kept as concentrated as possible to optimally coat the gastrointestinal tract when taken. This can be done by:

1. putting a teaspoon of honey on a small piece of bread, cracker or something alike
   
2. taking it on an empty stomach (e.g just after waking up)
3. not eating or drinking for about 20 minutes after eating the honey (to avoid dilution)
4. doing this at least 3 times a day
   

By eating the honey with a piece of bread or fruit you'll guarantee it will reach the stomach. If you would just eat it of the teaspoon there is a chance it will dissolve quickly into the bloodstream. But this might be variable depending on the person. Some people report taking the honey of a spoon works for them. These are just directions to make best use of its soothing, antiseptic properties which are known to protect and heal damaged tissue. For stomach ulcer treatment eating more honey and bread is recommended.

How to Use Manuka honey on a Sore Throat
These directions can also be applied when treating mouth ulcers, gum disease, dental plaque and tonsil infection. Obviously in these treatments it is best to keep the honey as long as possible in the mouth. You can do this by taking a teaspoon en just nibble a little from it and keep it a while in your mouth before swallowing. Rinse and repeat.

Have any questions? Don't hesitate to comment or e-mail me. For information on which brands to buy click here.