Quick read:
- A study found that manuka honey significantly reduced tumor growth in mice with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer cells by 84% without harming normal breast cells or causing major side effects!
- High-quality Manuka honey can help heal and soothe painful mouth sores from chemo and radiation.
- All authentic Manuka honey will have an MGO rating on its packaging; this number is arguably the most important variable for understanding the honey’s potency and purity. For everyday wellness, look for MGO 260+, but for medicinal strength, try to buy at least MGO 500+.
Since the dawn of time, people have consumed honey for its sweetness and natural healing properties. From soothing a sore throat to healing breast cancer, honey—especially pure Manuka honey—should be on your
shelf of health.
Manuka honey stands out for its unique medicinal properties. Originating from the nectar of the Manuka bush (Leptospermum scoparium) native to New Zealand and parts of Australia, this honey has been a staple in traditional medicine, particularly for wound care and digestive ailments.
But now modern science is catching up and buzzing about Manuka honey’s potential in:
- Cancer therapy
- Anti-inflammatory powers
- Neuroprotective effects
- Immune system support
- Mood enhancement
- And many others!
Anyway you put it, it’s a sweet way to heal your body and mind, so let’s dig into the science.
Manuka Honey and Breast Cancer
A 2024 study [1] conducted by UCLA Health’s Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center revealed that manuka honey significantly reduced tumor growth in mice with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer cells by 84%, without harming normal breast cells or causing major side effects! This is incredibly promising news, and here are more specifics reported directly from the study:
- Significantly reduced tumor growth in mice with ER-positive breast cancer cells by 84% without affecting normal breast cells or causing major side effects. About 80% of breast cancer cases are ER-positive.
- Higher concentrations of Manuka honey led to a greater reduction in cancer cell growth.
- Reduced levels of signaling pathways that are up-regulated in cancer, such as AMPK/AKT/mTOR and STAT3, which are involved in tumor cell growth and survival.
- Reduced the proliferation of cancer cells but did not affect the growth of normal human mammary epithelial cells, indicating it might target cancer cells specifically.
- Induced apoptosis or cell death in breast cancer cells.
- Enhanced the effectiveness of existing treatments such as tamoxifen, a commonly used anti-estrogen drug in ER-positive breast cancer therapy, when used together.
Another 2024 study backs up these findings; you can read it here [2].
Manuka honey can fend off mouth and throat sores caused by treatments.
Another reason integrative oncology is so powerful is that while conventional treatments (radiation and chemo) are sometimes necessary, they often come with harsh side effects. Painful mouth and throat sores are among the most difficult to endure, but it’s also where the potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial powers of Manuka honey can truly shine.
By consuming high-quality Manuka honey, you can tap into its natural healing abilities to help prevent and soothe these painful sores. The science is compelling: this 2024 study [2] highlights how Manuka honey’s unique compounds reduce inflammation and combat infection, offering much-needed relief during cancer treatment.
And YES, you can continue to THRIVE even during treatments! Our 10-week Transformation Online Program [3] and Private Coaching [4] can help you get there.
Tips For Buying High-Quality Manuka Honey For Breast Cancer Healing
So that you do not get into a sticky situation and accidentally buy a knockoff that is filled with GMOs and artificial ingredients, here’s what to look for:
[5]
- MGO (methylglyoxal) rating: All authentic Manuka honey will have an MGO rating on its packaging; this number is arguably the most important variable for understanding the honey’s potency and purity. For everyday wellness, look for MGO 260+, but for medicinal strength, try to buy at least MGO 500+.
- Darker color and richer flavor: Authentic Manuka honey tends to have a darker color and a rich, earthy flavor.
- Sourced from only New Zealand or Australia. It only grows naturally in that part of the world.
Four delightful ways to consume Manuka honey.
Now that you know how to buy, here are Breast Cancer Conqueror’s recommendations for gratifying consumption!
- Eat it straight off a spoon, and incorporate it into your daily supplement routine.
- Spread it on homemade Super Seed Crackers [6] or Grain-Free Banana Bread [7].
- Mix it into Homemade Cashew Milk [8].
- Stir it into one of Dr. V’s Favorite Healing Teas. [9]
Navigating the Sweetness: Blood Sugar Considerations
While Manuka honey is a natural product, it’s essential to approach its consumption with mindfulness, especially concerning blood sugar levels. Manuka honey has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars, meaning it causes a slower rise in blood glucose.
However, it still contains natural sugars and can impact blood sugar levels—something every Wellness Warrior should be aware of. This is because blood sugar imbalances are a key factor in the development of cancer, and you can learn more via this blog post. [10] You can also learn how to easily test your blood sugar by reading this blog post. [11]
Interestingly, some studies [12] suggest that it may offer benefits in blood sugar regulation. The research found that it can stimulate insulin production and improve pancreatic function, potentially aiding in better blood sugar control. However, these findings are preliminary, and more extensive human studies are needed to confirm these effects. Stay tuned!
Conclusion: More Manuka!
Ancient wisdom and modern science both agree that Manuka is a powerful and natural resource for health and healing. Its rich antibacterial, antiinflammatory, and anticancer properties offer both hope and practical support.
From helping prevent painful treatment side effects, enhancing the power of conventional therapies, or simply nourishing your body with nature’s sweetness, make sure to add Manuka to your integrative wellness plan.
Long story short—it’s definitely a “superfood,” not just sweet talk!
Your next read: Simplified: What to eat during breast cancer chemotherapy [13]