Anti‐Microbial Activity and Composition of Manuka and Portobello Honey

Abstract

Recently renewed interest in the therapeutic properties of honey has led to the search for new antimicrobial honeys. This study was undertaken to assess the antimicrobial activity and composition of a locally produced Portobello honey (PBH) on three bacteria known to infect wounds. Manuka honey (MH) was used for comparative purposes. Broth culture and agar disc diffusion assays were used to investigate the antimicrobial properties of honey. The honeys were tested at four concentrations: 75%, 50%, 10% and 1% (v/v) and compared with an untreated control. The composition of honey was determined by measuring: polyphenol content by Folin Ciocalteau method, antioxidant capacity by ferric ion reducing power assay, hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 ) by catalase test, pH and sugar content by pH strips and refractometer, respectively. Both honeys at 75% and 50% inhibited the majority of the three bacteria tested. 10% PBH exhibited antimicrobial activity to the lesser extent than 10% MH. The difference was very significant (p ≤ 0.001). Both honeys were acidic with pH 4, and both produced H2 O2 . The sugar content of PBH was higher than MH, but the difference was not significant. The MH had significantly higher levels of the polyphenols and antioxidant activity than PBH.

Periodontal Application of Manuka Honey: Antimicrobial and Demineralising Effects In Vitro

“…Since the 1990s, research on honeys has regained momentum, with focus towards antibacterial properties particularly against bacteria associated with antibiotic-resistance and infected wounds [3–5]. This has led to approval for use of manuka honey in the treatment of infected wounds, burns, and ulcers [6–9].…”

Manuka honey: an emerging natural food with medicinal use

“…In a trial comparing the anti-oxidant activity of manuka honey with acacia honey from Germany and wild carrot honey, the former was deemed superior in its phenolic content (899.09 mg gallic acid/kg). 21 It was observed that manuka honey has significantly higher levels of the polyphenols and antioxidant activity than portbello honey (a honey made in Edinburg, UK) 1 Even though trials have been conducted on total antioxidant content of the honey, and respective clinical outcomes, further research needs to be conducted. Determination of the specific therapeutic role of the anti-oxidants and co-factors in manuka honey may reveal synergistic activities.…”

“…1,2,3,4 Manuka honey is used both internally and externally. It is marketed as a gel for topical applications (i.e.…”

Honey: A realistic antimicrobial for disorders of the skin

“…In 2013, researchers at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, Scotland reported the antimicrobial activity of a Scottish Honey called Portobello Honey 22 . Portobello Honey was produced by honey bees in an apple orchard in Portobello, Edinburgh, Scotland.…”