Some people with multiple sclerosis (MS) are interested in exploring alternative or natural therapies to manage their symptoms. A popular topic on MyMSTeam is manuka honey, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and healing properties.

If you’ve heard about manuka honey, you might wonder whether it can help with MS symptoms or if it’s just a trend. Some MyMSTeam members have tried it and shared their experiences.

Before trying any new therapies, talk to your doctor. You want to be sure that it won’t interfere with your current treatment plan. Here’s what research says about manuka honey and the real-life experiences of MyMSTeam members who use honey to try to improve their health.

What Is Manuka Honey?

Manuka honey comes from a flowering tea tree found in parts of New Zealand and Australia. It has been used in traditional healing for many years. People use manuka honey for healing wounds, preventing tooth decay, and more. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiviral, and antibacterial properties.

Is Manuka Honey Good for MS?

There isn’t much research on how manuka honey affects MS. However, medical-grade manuka honey is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in some topical treatments for wound care. It has antibacterial properties and is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties when applied to the skin, particularly for wound healing. However, it’s unclear whether these same properties would help in managing MS.

A review of studies suggests that some compounds in honey may help reduce inflammation when consumed. However, the researchers noted that larger studies are needed to determine how safe and effective it is for specific medical conditions.

While there’s limited research on manuka honey for MS, some studies have shown promising health benefits from consuming manuka honey in general.

Manuka Honey and Diabetes

There are two types of diabetes — type 1 and type 2 — both of which may be more common among people with MS than in the general population. Research shows that MS and type 1 diabetes — both autoimmune disorders — share environmental risk factors and similar genetic components. Having type 1 diabetes increases the risk of developing MS. People who have type 1 diabetes have at least a threefold higher risk of developing MS compared to those without it.

Type 2 diabetes may also pose a risk for people who already have MS. It is unclear whether disability from MS contributes to type 2 diabetes or if other factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, or environmental factors, play a role. One study found that 46 percent of people with MS also had insulin resistance (a primary marker of type 2 diabetes), which was significantly higher than in those without MS.

Managing blood sugar levels is an important aspect of living with diabetes. Honey contains fructose, a type of sugar with a lower glycemic index (GI) than refined sugars like granulated sugar. Because manuka honey contains other beneficial components and may not raise blood glucose (sugar) levels as much as other sugars, it could be a healthier choice than processed sugar. However, those with diabetes should still limit all forms of sugar, including honey, as it can still raise blood sugar levels.

How To Use Manuka Honey

Many MyMSTeam members have shown interest in manuka honey. When choosing manuka honey, look for the UMF (Unique Manuka Factor) number. This rating indicates the quality and concentration of beneficial compounds in manuka honey. The higher the UMF number, the more potent the manuka honey is.

One member eats manuka honey as part of a balanced breakfast. They shared, “I have porridge when the weather is chilly — with a bit of cinnamon and manuka honey. [It] helps stave off the nasties.”

Another wrote that they “found some manuka honey cream for the damage” to their mouth, noting that the honey, along with some Benadryl, was mostly for “psychological help.”

Manuka honey can be a sweet addition to your diet, but it’s important to talk to your doctor before increasing your intake. Members of MyMSTeam have shared other ways they use manuka honey.

One member said, “I have been drinking ginger tea with manuka honey, and it appears to help with my bladder problems. I no longer wet myself.” Another responded, “Holy cow! I drank two cups of organic ginger tea with manuka honey today … what a difference it has made in my bladder and brain!”

Other MyMSTeam members mix it into caramel coffee in the morning or drizzle it on toast with a banana. Some also swear by its antibacterial activity to soothe a sore throat.

One member prefers it straight. They said, “I get squeezable bottles and just squeeze it into my mouth! It’s the best for MS bladders … amazing!”

Talk With Your Doctor

While manuka honey shows some potential to help heal wounds and reduce inflammation, there isn’t enough data to fully understand its health benefits. Multiple sclerosis should not be treated with honey alone. Always manage the condition under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.

If you want to add honey to your MS management plan, talk to your neurologist or healthcare provider first. They can guide you on how to add honey safely, help minimize potential side effects such as allergic reactions, and offer the best chance of feeling better.

Find Your Team

MyMSTeam is the social network for people with multiple sclerosis and their loved ones. On MyMSTeam, more than 219,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with multiple sclerosis.

What do you think about the reported benefits of manuka honey? Are there any other natural products you use in your MS journey? Share your story in the comments below or by posting on your Activities page.