A stomach ulcer treatment using Manuka honey can be among the most effective of natural remedies for stomach ulcers and the most tasty! The reason has to do with the root cause of most stomach ulcers.
Not so long ago it was thought that stomach ulcers (also called peptic ulcers or gastric ulcers) were mostly caused by lifestyle choices, like eating the wrong kinds of food, eating too much spicy food, enduring a stressful lifestyle routine, etc. Although they can make it worse, we now know otherwise.
Medical science has learned that most stomach ulcers are actually caused by a bacterial infection. In fact, most stomach ulcers are caused by one particularly nasty little bacterium called Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori).
Though there are other causes such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and regular use of NSAIDs (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen etc), more often than not, Helicobacter pylori is the cause.
The reason Manuka honey can potentially aid in healing peptic ulcers lies in its high concentration of Methylglyoxal (MGO), an ingredient that is known for its strong antibacterial properties and some other amazing healing properties too.
It is important to seek medical care if you think you may have a gastric ulcer and before using Manuka Honey as treatment for your ulcer, as each medical case is unique and ulcers can create serious medical complications.
Why Manuka Honey?
Manuka honey isn’t your average kind of honey. It’s like the superhero of the honey world! It comes from the nectar of the special Manuka tree flowers, which grow only in New Zealand and a small area in Australia. This tree is a relative of the Tea Tree.
What really makes Manuka honey stand out is its super high level of Methylglyoxal (MGO). MGO is a compound that gives Manuka honey strong antibacterial properties. In fact, Manuka honey has over 100 times more MGO than regular honey! This is part of what makes it so useful for treating all kinds of health issues.
This unique honey also has a much lower pH than other types of honey, which helps it promote wound healing.
Manuka honey also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. This helps with managing the discomfort and complications associated with stomach ulcers. By reducing inflammation, you alleviate irritation and soreness around the affected area, creating a more favorable environment for the healing process to take place.
When you eat or apply Manuka honey, you’re benefiting from this amazing natural defense system.
Clinical Evidence for This Treatment
Research has shown that Manuka honey inhibits the growth of Helicobacter pylori, the bacterium that causes peptic ulcers.
Moreover, these studies have indicated that Manuka honey’s anti-inflammatory effects contribute significantly to reducing tissue inflammation and promoting cell regeneration in the stomach lining.
Another study featured in “BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies” explored the potential therapeutic impact of Manuka honey on stomach ulcers. It suggested that the honey could help in treating stomach ulcers by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are crucial factors for the healing process.
Research at the University of Auckland found that the higher the UMF the more likely it was to inhibit growth and kill the H. pylori . Honey with UMF25+ had 4 times the ability than UMF5.
The U.S. FDA has approved Manuka Honey for wound treatment, due to its antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
Studies have indicated that incorporating Manuka honey into treatment plans for stomach ulcers may offer a natural complement to conventional therapies, potentially enhancing efficacy while mitigating side effects commonly associated with pharmaceutical interventions.
Beyond scientific research there are countless anecdotal accounts of Manuka helping to heal peptic ulcers. The potent antibacterial and healing properties makes Manuka honey a sought after natural remedy for stomach ulcers.
This super-honey has gained traction for its reported effectiveness in treating various health conditions, infections, speeding up the healing process, and promoting general well-being.
Practical Guide: Manuka Honey Treatment for Ulcers
If you’re considering using Manuka honey to help with your stomach ulcers, then it’s essential to get the basics right. Quality matters—a lot.
When you’re dealing with something as serious as ulcers, you need to make sure that the honey you’re using is genuine and effective.
First off, make sure the label says “packed in New Zealand” or has a Fernmark Seal (stamp of authenticity), which guarantees your honey is authentic, has been tested before it was exported and meets global MPI Manuka Honey standards.
Then look for products with a certified UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) rating or high KFactor. This rating indicates your honey’s potency. The higher the UMF rating the more MGO and anti-bacterial activity in your honey.
How to Use Manuka Honey for Stomach Ulcers
When it comes to actually using Manuka honey for stomach ulcers, you need to be consistent and ensure that you consume it the right way to maximize its potential benefits.
Experts recommend taking a small dose of Manuka honey at least 30 minutes before meals on an empty stomach. The typical dosage ranges from 1 teaspoon before meals up to 1-2 tablespoons per day. It can be consumed directly or mixed with warm water or herbal tea.
It’s important that you stay on top of your daily dosage, as consistency will play a big part in its effectiveness.
For chronic conditions, like gastric ulcers, the length of time it will take to help alleviate symptoms will vary. It’s best to work with a healthcare professional, like a gastroenterologist or a naturopathic doctor who can assess your condition, give you personalized treatment and monitor your progress.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes to Make
Along with taking Manuka Honey, you’ll want to avoid foods and drinks that irritate your ulcer. Common foods and drinks include; alcohol, coffee, soda, fatty foods, spicy foods, chocolate, friend and greasy foods. It’s also advised that you avoid eating 3 hours before you go to bed.
Lowering your stress level will also help with your body’s healing process as stress weakens your immune system and increases your stomach acid.
By avoiding irritants and improving your stress while taking high-quality Manuka Honey consistently on an empty 30 minutes before meals and working with a trusted healthcare practitioner, you’ll hopefully find relief from your pain and discomfort soon.
When it comes to stomach ulcers, it’s not just about finding relief from symptoms; it’s also about addressing the root cause and promoting healing. This is where the potential benefits of Manuka honey come into play.
Cautionary Advice When Using Manuka Honey as Treatment
Stomach ulcers are common and treatable but can develop into a serious medical condition as they can lead to internal bleeding, anemia, scarring, stomach cancer, or a complete hole in the stomach tissue, causing significant gastrointestinal complications. For this reason they should be taken seriously.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms please seek immediate medical treatment:
- Vomiting blood (can be bright red or dark brown/grainy like coffee grounds)
- Passing dark, sticky tar-like stools
- Have sudden, sharp abdominal pain
- Have a hard, rigid abdomen that is tender to touch
- Have any symptoms of shock (fainting, confusion, excessive sweating)
You should also contact your GP or medical provider if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
First and foremost, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment regimen involving Manuka honey, especially if you are currently taking medication or have pre-existing health conditions.
A healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance, taking into account your medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. They can advise on the appropriate dosage of Manuka honey and provide insights into potential interactions with other treatments or medications you may be using. This tailored approach ensures that Manuka honey complements your existing healthcare journey.
Fortunately, with honey you don’t have to worry about nasty side effects!
Additionally, individuals with known allergies to bee products should exercise caution when consuming Manuka honey. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may require immediate medical attention. It’s advisable for individuals with bee product allergies to undergo allergy testing before incorporating Manuka honey into their ulcer treatment plan.
Making informed decisions under expert guidance paves the way for a balanced and holistic approach to wellness.
Understanding Stomach Ulcers
Stomach ulcers can be quite painful and disruptive. They are essentially sores that develop on the lining of the stomach, causing discomfort, pain in the abdominal region, and potential complications if left untreated. They’re most likely caused by an infection of H. pylori bacteria.
The symptoms of stomach ulcers can vary among individuals; some may experience no symptoms at all while others may have severe discomfort, including the following symptoms:
- Burning pain in the abdomen (between your breastbone and belly button)
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Heartburn
- Feeling full quickly after eating
- Indigestion (especially after eating fatty foods)
- Pain may feel worse between meals or at night
- No appetite or desire to eat
If your ulcer is bleeding, you may not experience pain but the first signs are also signs of anemia. These include weakness, fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, bloody vomit, or blood in your stools. As I mentioned earlier, if you experience these symptoms please seek immediate medical attention.
Through a medical history and diagnostic testing (including endoscopy, imaging, blood and stool testse for an H. Pylori infection) your doctor can diagnose a stomach ulcer, ruling out other medical issues so you can begin treatment and start feeling better.
Preventative Measures for Future Ulcers
Not only is Manuka Honey an effective treatment for stomach ulcers and a great addition for health promotion, it’s also something you can use to prevent ulcers from recurring. Some ulcers follow a chronic pattern where they heal temporarily and then return.
By maintaining changes to your diet, stress level, avoiding NSAIDs, reducing alcohol and cigarettes, and continuing to add Manuka Honey to ensure you don’t get another H. Pylori infection, you can reduce your chances of getting another stomach ulcer.
Medical Disclaimer: I am not a doctor, always consult with your doctor for any medical condition and treatment.
