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topical · for minor cuts, scrapes & wounds

Manuka Honey Dressing

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

The 2015 Cochrane review by Jull et al. (26 trials, n=3,011) found high-quality evidence that honey heals partial-thickness burns approximately 4-5 days faster than conventional dressings, and moderate-quality evidence it treats infected post-operative wounds more quickly than antiseptics.$15-$35 per tube/dressing kit

How to use

Clean the wound thoroughly with clean water or saline. Apply a thin layer (2-3 mm) of medical-grade Manuka honey (UMF 10+ or MGO 263+ minimum for wound use) directly to the wound bed or to a dressing pad. Cover with a sterile non-adherent dressing and secure with tape or bandage. Change every 1-3 days depending on wound exudate. Do not use culinary honey - use only wound-care certified products.

How it works

Manuka honey creates a moist wound environment that promotes healing, releases hydrogen peroxide at low bactericidal levels, and its methylglyoxal (MGO) content provides additional antimicrobial activity against resistant organisms including MRSA. Its acidic pH (3.5-4.5) inhibits bacterial protease activity and reduces wound odour.

Where to buy

Medihoney Wound & Burn Dressing (Derma Sciences), Manukamed WoundCare Gel, Wedderspoon Manuka Honey UMF 16+ - available at CVS, Walgreens, Amazon, and wound-care specialist suppliers. Ensure products are medical-grade, not food-grade.

Typical cost: $15-$35 per tube/dressing kit

Safety notes

Avoid if allergic to honey or bee products. Not suitable for use inside deep cavity wounds without medical supervision. Some patients experience temporary stinging on application - this is normal. Do not use on type 1 diabetics' wounds without medical oversight due to glucose absorption concerns. Honey can dilute when wet - do not use on heavily weeping wounds without absorptive secondary dressing.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

Clinical source

Jull AB et al., Honey as a topical treatment for wounds, Cochrane Database Syst Rev, 2015

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.