Sweet Relief: Determining the Antimicrobial Activity of Medical Grade Honey Against Vaginal Isolates of Candida albicans

Abstract

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC) is predicted to increase to almost 158 million cases annually by 2030. Extensive self-diagnosis and easily accessible over-the-counter (OTC) fungistatic drugs contribute to antifungal-resistance, illustrating the need for novel therapies. Honey possesses multiple antimicrobial mechanisms, and there is no antimicrobial resistance towards honey reported. We evaluated the susceptibility of five clinical isolates of Candida albicans and a control strain to regular honey and a medical grade honey (MGH) gel formulation (L-Mesitran, containing 40% honey and vitamins C and E) using an adapted version of the EUCAST protocol at pH 5.2, 4.6, and 4.0. 40% regular honey did not kill or inhibit C. albicans. In contrast, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of L-Mesitran was 25%–50%, while fungicidal effects occurred at a 50% concentration (MBC) of the MGH formulation, except for one strain which was not killed at pH 4.0. Overall, pH had little effect on antimicrobial activity. MGH formulation L-Mesitran has antimicrobial activity against C. albicans over a relevant pH range. The vitamin supplements or other components of L-Mesitran may enhance the antifungal activity of the honey. This study supports performing clinical trials for conditions, such as RVVC, to find an alternative to available OTC fungistatic drugs.

Treating severe wounds in pediatrics with medical grade honey: A case series

“…This honey‐based wound care product contains 48% medical grade honey, hypoallergenic lanolin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc oxide, and essential oils. Several studies have demonstrated that the supplements in L‐Mesitran enhance the antimicrobial properties of its raw honey and is more potent than Manuka‐based Medihoney …”

Medical-Grade Honey Kills Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Prevents Amputation in Diabetics with Infected Ulcers: A Prospective Case Series

“…Since the antimicrobial activity of MGH is based on multiple mechanisms, microorganisms are not capable of developing resistance toward MGH [ 10 ]. Interestingly, smart honey formulations have added supplements such as vitamins C and E to further enhance the antimicrobial activity of raw honey [ 11 , 12 , 13 ]. MGH decreases the bacterial load, while it additionally prevents the invasion of new pathogens by forming a physical barrier when applied to the wound.…”

In vitro antimicrobial efficacy of two medical grade honey formulations against common high‐risk meticillin‐resistant staphylococci and Pseudomonas spp. pathogens

“…MGH1 has been reported to show antifungal activity against Candida albicans, compared with raw honey, suggesting that supplemented vitamins may enhance antimicrobial properties. 42 In a randomized controlled trial with 127 horses having lacerations, MGH1 was able to prevent infections and improve complete healing and veterinarian satisfaction. 43 Infected wounds often contain polymicrobial pathogens 44,45 and therefore an antimicrobial agent active against a wide spectrum of pathogens is warranted.…”

“…46,47 The addition of supplements to MGH formulations may further enhance the pro-healing effects of MGH while possibly improving its antimicrobial properties. 42,47 MGH1 is supplemented with vitamins C and E that act synergistically and enhance wound repair [10][11][12] and its antimicrobial activity. 42,48 Vitamin C is a cofactor in the biosynthesis of collagen and improves angiogenesis and tensile strength in the skin.…”

“…42,47 MGH1 is supplemented with vitamins C and E that act synergistically and enhance wound repair [10][11][12] and its antimicrobial activity. 42,48 Vitamin C is a cofactor in the biosynthesis of collagen and improves angiogenesis and tensile strength in the skin. 49,50 Vitamin E protects cells from lipid peroxidation, is anti-inflammatory and reduces scar formation.…”