The anticarcinogenic properties of manuka honey - a literature review

Abstract

Background: Since antiquity, honey has been recognised for its healing and antibacterial properties. Recently, Manuka honey (MH) has been identified as possessing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and anticarcinogenic effects. Objective: This review examines the potential benefits of manuka honey, its bioactive components, and their effects on cancerogenesis, cancer growth, and development. Methods: The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched, and 46 studies were identified as most relevant to the research objective. Results: The accompanying papers posit that MH may impede carcinogenesis by regulating various molecular pathways and cancer cell progression. A substantial body of scientific evidence indicates that a range of honey types, including MH, can facilitate the release of reactive oxygen species and cytokines (predominantly IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) by innate immune system cells. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that honey can stimulate T lymphocytes and macrophages' proliferation and functions while also inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in cancer cells. Conclusion: The body of evidence attesting to the anticarcinogenic properties of MH continues to grow. Several studies have demonstrated the significant role of manuka honey and its properties in promoting innate and adaptive immunity, which is essential for eliminating cancer cells. Nevertheless, further research is required to provide comprehensive data regarding the active constituents of Manuka honey and their potential efficacy in cancer therapy.

Keywords

• Manuka honey
• Leptospermum scoparium
• cancer
• anticarcinogenic