It’s suggested that honey may stimulate the CYP3A enzyme, and this might alter the metabolism of drugs.

Researchers in Germany studied the effect of repeated honey administration on human CYP3A enzyme activity using the benzodiazepine drug midazolam (Versed). (more…)

Cough is a major cause of doctor visits among children and adults. It can impact quality of life, cause anxiety, and affect sleep for parents and their children.

Here’s a Cochrane review of the evidence supporting the use of honey to treat acute cough in children. (more…)

Researchers from Germany and New Zealand have reviewed Medihoney — a medically certified honey licensed for professional wound care in Europe and Australia. (more…)

 Apitherapy is the use of bee products such as honey to prevent or treat illness and promote healing.

Researchers at Justus-Liebig-University in Giessen, Germany conducted a survey of beekeepers. (more…)

 In some cases, it might speed healing, according to this review from The Cochrane Library. (more…)

In this time of MRSA (methacillin-resistant Staph aureus) skin infections, Medscape reviews 3 CAM wound treatment options.

Here are the highlights. (more…)

The evidence confirms its antibacterial properties and additional beneficial effects of medical honey on wound healing, according to this article published in Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

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Is it a good as dextromethorphan — the cough-suppressant found in many over-the-counter cold and cough medicines?

Researchers from the College of Medicine at Pennsylvania State University Hershey show that it is. (more…)

? The media regularly reminds us of the dangers and difficulties in treating infections caused by microorganisms that are resistant to antibiotics.

For example, the Washington Post reports that in 2005, MRSA (methacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) infections killed nearly 19,000 people in the US, compared to 17,000 HIV/AIDS deaths. (more…)

MayoClinic.com has reviewed cold remedies that work and don’t.

Here’s a summary of useful CAM options.

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In a previous post, the use of honey to treat wounds was discussed. Here is a good review of the antibacterial effects of honey.

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Historically, a poultice was a soft moist mass of bread, meal, clay, or other adhesive substance. It was usually heated, with the active ingredient spread on cloth, and applied to warm, moisten, or stimulate an aching or inflamed part of the body. The poultice has been used to reduce fever, treat rattlesnake bites, and any condition of the skin that requires direct application of medicine.

Now, the poultice is being used with honey, Medihoney to be precise, in the treatment of wounds.

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Reported earlier on the site was a study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which found that 36% of Americans use CAM ? 62% if prayer is included.

Now, here is an estimate of the use of CAM in one Central American country.

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