The efficacy of stingless bee honey for the treatment of bacteria-induced conjunctivitis in guinea pigs

Abstract

Alex Azuka Ilechie,1 Peter Kofi Kwapong,2 Edwin Mate-Kole,1 Samuel Kyei,1 Charles Darko-Takyi,11Department of Optometry, 2Department of Entomology and Wildlife, University of Cape Coast, GhanaAbstract: The efficacy of the conjunctival application of a crude concentration of stingless bee honey (SBH) for the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis was investigated in an animal model. Bacterial conjunctivitis caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa was induced in Hartley guinea pigs. The conjunctival application of SBH or gentamicin was used for treatment, and the results of this treatment were compared with control values. Inflammatory signs, duration of infection (ie, positive culture), and time for the complete resolution of infection with S. aureus or P. aeruginosa were shortened by the conjunctival application of 1 drop (70 µL) of crude SBH twice daily. The potency of SBH was comparable with that of gentamicin. SBH may be a rational agent for the treatment of infective conjunctivitis in humans; it is inexpensive and commonly available to the rural population.Keywords: stingless bee honey, efficacy, bacteria, conjunctivitis, inflammation, infection