Scientific Research - Manuka Honey for Cold sores

Lady up close looking at coldsore on lip

If you are a cold sore sufferer, you know the discomfort and inconvenience that these pesky blisters can bring. While there are various over-the-counter creams and medications available, some people prefer a more natural remedy. 

Manuka honey stands out thanks to its exceptional concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a potent antibacterial compound. This natural goodness can help combat the herpes simplex virus responsible for cold sores when applied topically. But its benefits don't stop there. Manuka honey's anti-inflammatory and soothing qualities can also alleviate the pain and discomfort that often accompanies cold sores.

The Research

A survey was performed on patients who were experiencing recurrent episodes of coldsores of up to 4 times a year. They were required to apply Medical Grade Honey (MGH) to the coldsore at the onset of their symptoms. 2 interesting statements in the results are: 

  • 'The average absolute healing time was 72.4% slower with conventional treatment (10.0 days) compared to MGH (5.8 days)'
  • 'If the patients normally experience pain and itching during their cold sores, these levels were lower with MGH therapy compared to conventional treatment'

The conclusion

"100% of the patients prefer MGH treatment over conventional treatment and will use it again on future cold sores. MGH is a promising alternative treatment for cold sores, likely by combining both increased antiviral and wound healing activities while alleviating pain and itching."

How to use: 

To use Manuka honey for cold sores, simply apply a small amount directly onto the affected area. Ensure that you're using a high-quality, certified Manuka honey with a high MGO rating for maximum effectiveness

While Manuka honey isn't a guaranteed cure, it's a natural and safe option that many people have found helpful in managing and speeding up the recovery from cold sores. So, the next time you feel that familiar tingle or see a cold sore forming, consider giving Manuka honey a try to harness its remarkable healing powers. Your lips will thank you!

SHOP HIGH STRENGTH MANUKA HONEY

Links to research

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

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