Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in the world. In Australia, 1 in 7 women and 1 in 550 men are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.
Treatments for breast cancer include surgery, radiation treatment, chemotherapy and hormone therapy, depending on the type of breast cancer.
There have also been several studies that have looked into complementary therapies to help treat and manage breast cancer symptoms, including yoga, meditation, acupuncture, massage, and herbal supplements.
Recently, a new 2024 study from UCLA, published in the journal Nutrient, investigated Manuka honey as a potential natural option for breast cancer prevention and treatment, particularly for estrogen-receptor positive (ER-positive) breast cancer which accounts for 80% of breast cancer diagnoses.
Potential of Manuka to treat breast cancer
Manuka honey has long been known for its antibacterial, anti- inflammatory and antioxidant properties with a rich nutritional profile beneficial to health. It has also demonstrated anticancer properties in some studies.
Preliminary studies suggest honey may protect against cancer by reducing inflammation, inhibiting cancer cell survival (anti-cancer), and protecting against cell damage. It may also slow or stop cancer cell growth, regulate the immune system and interact with estrogen receptors, which is relevant for certain hormone-related cancers like breast cancer.
The latest 2024 UCLA study investigated the potential anticancer effects of Manuka honey on breast cancer using both laboratory cell cultures and mice. The investigators found that Manuka honey significantly reduced tumour growth by 84% without any harm to normal breast cells or causing any major side effects. It was also noted that higher concentrations of Manuka led to greater reduction in cancer cell growth.
Manuka honey was shown to slow down or stop breast cancer cell growth, particularly in ER-positive cancer cells. This is significant as ER-positive breast cancer cells have receptors that use the hormone estrogen to fuel their growth. Anti-estrogen hormone (endocrine) therapy is effectively used to block the growth of cancer cells. However, the cells can develop resistance to hormone therapy inhibitors, which is a major contributor to breast cancer.
The findings of this study suggest that Manuka honey, which has strong anti-tumour properties, has the potential to be developed into a natural supplement or an alternative treatment for ER-positive breast cancer. It could potentially be helpful to patients who experience resistance to traditional treatments.
Using Manuka honey for breast cancer
It’s important to remember that while studies show the potential benefits of Manuka honey for breast cancer, more research is necessary.
Manuka honey is not a standalone treatment for breast cancer. However, it can be used as a complementary therapy to traditional treatments, as research suggests that it may enhance the effectiveness of certain cancer treatment drugs, such as tamoxifen used in ER-positive breast cancer therapy.
Consuming 1-2 teaspoons of Manuka honey daily for general health may also offer health benefits from its antimicrobial and healing properties. It may also help reduce cancer-related inflammation because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
Manuka honey may be applied topically on wounds or ulcers caused by radiation therapy, such as radiation-induced dermatitis and oral mucositis. Manuka honey’s wound healing, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties may help with wound care.
Before using Manuka honey as part of your care plan, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider to ensure Manuka doesn’t interfere with your treatment.
At Nature’s Gold, we are known for our high-quality premium Manuka honey and honey products. Visit our online store for medical-grade Manuka honey, raw Manuka honey or Manuka honey skin repair products.
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