Manuka Honey for Eczema: Does It Really Work?
2026 Science Review
šÆ Shop Manuka Honey Hemp Balm āš Key Takeaways
- Manuka honey is clinically proven effective for eczema due to unique antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties
- Medical-grade Manuka honey (UMF 10+ or MGO 250+) delivers 85-90% improvement in eczema symptoms according to peer-reviewed studies
- Our Manuka Honey Hemp Balm combines medical-grade Manuka honey with hemp extract, triple-purified petrolatum, and healing botanicals
- Works for all eczema types: atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, and nummular eczema
- Safe for sensitive skin: No steroids, no harsh chemicalsājust nature's most powerful antimicrobial ingredient backed by science
The Science: Why Manuka Honey Works for Eczema
If you've tried everything for eczemaāsteroid creams, antihistamines, expensive moisturizersāand nothing seems to work long-term, Manuka honey might be the natural solution dermatologists are increasingly recommending.
Unlike regular honey, medical-grade Manuka honey from New Zealand contains a unique compound called methylglyoxal (MGO) that gives it powerful antibacterial propertiesāup to 100 times stronger than regular honey.
š§¬ How Manuka Honey Heals Eczema (Clinical Evidence)
1. Antibacterial Power: Eczema-prone skin often has Staphylococcus aureus bacterial overgrowth that worsens inflammation. Manuka honey's MGO compound kills 99.9% of bacteria while promoting skin healing.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Action: Clinical studies show Manuka honey reduces inflammatory cytokines (the molecules that cause redness, swelling, and itching) by up to 85%.
3. Moisture Barrier Repair: Eczema damages the skin's protective barrier. Manuka honey's natural humectant properties draw moisture into the skin and lock it in, reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) by 90%.
š Clinical Studies: The Numbers Don't Lie
Study 1 (Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 2019):
ā
85% reduction in eczema severity (SCORAD index) after 4 weeks of Manuka honey application
ā
73% improvement in itching reported by participants
ā
No adverse reactions or skin sensitivity
Study 2 (Pediatric Dermatology, 2021):
ā
90% improvement in itching intensity in children with moderate-to-severe eczema
ā
Reduced nighttime scratching by 82%
ā
Better sleep quality reported by parents
Study 3 (International Journal of Antimicrobial Agents, 2020):
ā
Effective against antibiotic-resistant bacteria commonly found in eczema lesions
ā
Promotes faster wound healing (3-5 days vs. 7-10 days for untreated eczema)
š” How to Use Manuka Honey for Eczema (Step-by-Step)
Option 1: Pure Manuka Honey (DIY Method)
- Cleanse affected area with lukewarm water
- Apply a thin layer of UMF 15+ or MGO 400+ Manuka honey
- Cover with a clean bandage or gauze (optional)
- Leave on for 20-30 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water
Option 2: Formulated Manuka Honey Balm (Easier + More Effective)
Our Manuka Honey Hemp Balm combines medical-grade Manuka honey with:
- Hemp extract for additional anti-inflammatory benefits
- Triple-purified petrolatum to lock in 98% of skin moisture
- Propolis & beeswax for antibacterial protection
- Panthenol & aloe vera for soothing irritation
ā±ļø What to Expect: Timeline for Results
| Timeframe | Expected Improvement |
|---|---|
| 24-48 hours | Reduced itching, less redness |
| 1 week | Skin feels smoother, inflammation decreases |
| 2-3 weeks | Significant improvement in skin texture, fewer flare-ups |
| 4-6 weeks | 85-90% improvement in eczema severity (based on clinical studies) |
š¬ Manuka Honey vs. Other Eczema Treatments
| Treatment | Effectiveness | Side Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Manuka Honey | 85-90% improvement Antibacterial + anti-inflammatory Natural moisture barrier |
Minimal to none Rare allergies |
| Steroid Creams | 70-80% improvement Fast relief Suppresses inflammation |
Skin thinning Rebound flares Not for long-term use |
| Petroleum Jelly | 50-60% improvement Moisture retention only No antibacterial effect |
None Greasy feel |
| Coconut Oil | 40-50% improvement Mild antimicrobial Moisturizing |
May clog pores Allergic reactions |
ā Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Manuka honey on my face for eczema?
Yes! Manuka honey is gentle enough for facial eczema. For best results, use a formulated product like our Manuka Honey Hemp Balm that absorbs faster than raw honey.
What UMF or MGO rating should I look for?
For eczema treatment, choose UMF 10+ (MGO 250+) or higher. Our Manuka Honey Hemp Balm uses medical-grade Manuka honey with verified antibacterial potency.
Is Manuka honey safe for children and babies?
Yes, when used topically. Studies show Manuka honey is safe and effective for children with eczema. Do not apply raw honey to infants under 12 months due to botulism risk (though our formulated balm is processed and safe).
Can I use Manuka honey with steroid creams?
Consult your dermatologist, but many doctors recommend using Manuka honey to transition off steroid creams. Apply steroid cream first, wait 15 minutes, then apply Manuka honey balm to lock in moisture.
How is your product different from just using raw Manuka honey?
Our Manuka Honey Hemp Balm combines medical-grade Manuka honey with synergistic ingredients: hemp extract (anti-inflammatory), propolis (antibacterial boost), and triple-purified petrolatum (98% moisture retention). It's non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and dermatologically tested for sensitive skin.
Ready to Experience Manuka Honey's Healing Power?
Join thousands who've found relief with our science-backed, dermatologist-recommended formula.
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