Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition characterized by inflammation, intense itching, and dryness. This common disorder involves a damaged skin barrier, which makes the skin more vulnerable to irritants, allergens, and bacteria. Many individuals are turning to natural remedies to manage their symptoms, prompting the question of whether honey, a substance long used in traditional medicine, can provide relief for eczema. Honey’s natural composition offers several properties that may complement conventional eczema treatments.
Honey’s Key Properties for Skin Health
Honey acts as a humectant, meaning it actively draws water into the skin and helps retain moisture. This is particularly beneficial for eczema, where a compromised skin barrier leads to significant dryness and flaking.
The anti-inflammatory effects of honey can help reduce the visible symptoms of a flare-up, such as redness and swelling. Compounds within honey work to calm the skin and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with eczema. This calming action makes it a suitable topical application for irritated patches.
Furthermore, honey possesses antimicrobial properties, which are important because 70% to 90% of people with eczema have Staphylococcus aureus bacteria colonizing their skin. Honey’s high sugar concentration creates an osmotic effect that inhibits bacterial growth, and its low pH contributes to a hostile environment for microbes. The presence of hydrogen peroxide, or in the case of Manuka honey, methylglyoxal (MGO), adds a powerful antibacterial component that can help prevent secondary infections in broken skin.
Applying Honey to Eczema Patches
When considering topical application, the type of honey matters, with medical-grade or Manuka honey often being studied and recommended due to its consistent potency. Manuka honey is particularly noted for its non-peroxide antibacterial activity. However, raw, unprocessed honey may also be used, provided it is pure.
Before applying honey to a widespread area, it is advisable to perform a patch test on a small, unaffected area of skin, such as the inner elbow. After cleansing the intended area gently, a thin layer of honey can be applied directly to the eczema patch. Due to its sticky nature, some individuals may find it easier to use honey that has been diluted with a carrier oil or incorporated into a cream base.
A common application method involves covering the honey-coated area with a clean, non-stick dressing or gauze. This occlusive layer helps keep the honey in place and prevents it from being rubbed off. The honey can typically be left on for a period ranging from 20 to 30 minutes, or even overnight. Afterward, gently rinse the area off with lukewarm water. This process can be repeated one to three times daily, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the skin’s reaction.
Safety Considerations and Allergy Testing
While generally considered safe for topical use, some individuals may have an existing allergy to components in honey, such as bee pollen or bee venom residues. If an application results in increased redness, itching, or irritation, use should be discontinued immediately.
A significant safety warning concerns the use of honey on infants under the age of one year. This is because honey may contain spores of Clostridium botulinum bacteria. Health authorities recommend avoiding honey entirely for this age group to prevent infant botulism. This caution applies even to topical applications due to the potential for accidental ingestion.
Individuals with severe eczema, especially patches that are weeping, visibly infected, or cover a large area of the body, should consult a dermatologist before using honey. Although medical-grade honey is used in wound care, application of non-medical honey to severely broken skin may introduce contaminants and could potentially worsen the condition. Professional medical advice ensures that honey is used as a complementary treatment alongside an appropriate overall eczema management plan.