Medical Grade of Honey: Ecology of Production, Botanical Origin, Authenticity and Safety

Abstract

Providing medicinal honey involves a unique process based on scientific regulations and guidelines. Little attention has been paid to the integrative and comprehensive criteria for medical grade honey (MGH) production and evaluation. Because of the high importance of this valuable natural product and its use as a medicinal supplement, treatment aid, and even a therapeutic agent, the guidelines and criteria for identifying and authenticating medical grade honey (MGH) must be reviewed and analyzed. Medicinal grade honey is achieved through a continuous chain from the location of colony establishment to the production process to storage and screening. Any disruption in this chain will disrupt the entire process. Furthermore, numerous geographical zones lack the ability to produce medicinal honey. Accordingly, the production of natural honey for medicinal use requires harsh conditions so as to guarantee the health of consumers. Medical grade honey covers a limited range of naturally produced honey in the world.