Manuka honey shows potential in the treatment of dry eye

Manuka honey, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may potentially be used to treat dry eye, according to a review.

In this review, data from 5 randomized clinical trials that included changes between the point of longest follow-up and baseline subjective symptoms, tear film quality, ocular surface characteristics, adverse events, and compliance were analyzed.

There were 288 adults with dry eye were included. Patients treated with manuka honey had significant improvement compared to control groups in the following categories:

-Ocular Surface Disease Index
-Standard Patient Evaluation of Eye Dryness
-Tear evaporation rate
-Negative conversion rate of matrix metalloproteinase-9 levels
-Ocular surface staining
-Daily use frequency of lubricant

Side effects included temporary stinging and redness.

Reference
Hu J, Kong L, Zhu Set al. Efficacy and safety of manuka honey for dry eye. Clin Exp Optom. 2022 Aug 11:1-11. doi: 10.1080/08164622.2022.2106779. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 35950413.