Wound Care in the Wilderness: Is There Evidence for Honey?

Stewart JA, McGrane OL, Wedmore IS · Wilderness & Environmental Medicine · 2014 March

DOI 10.1016/j.wem.2013.08.006

Objective

We found no clinical trials exploring the use of honey in prehospital or wilderness environments; however, it may be a safe and effective provisional wound treatment, especially in situations in which antibiotics are indicated but not available. Therefore, honey can be used as an improvised treatment for multiple austere medical problems, and, if needed, provide a food source.

Conclusions

Although honey has not been shown to be a definitively superior wound treatment, it has proven its effectiveness, safety, and utility. Because of its potential as both a multiuse therapy and as a nonperishable food source, and owing to its low risk profile, honey may be superior to other single-use items when building a medical kit or planning for expeditions. In resource-poor environments, honey may be a viable, renewable, local resource available for treatment of wounds.

Critical Appraisal

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Insights

Honey has shown to be a safe and occasionally superior treatment for various wounds compared to current treatments, even in wilderness environments.

The research was based on a review of existing literature on the physiological properties of honey, focusing on its uses in wound care. Documents showing the efficacy and safety of honey as a treatment for several wounds were examined. Comparisons with traditional wound treatment procedures were also made, presenting honey as a viable alternative. This evaluation even considered the use of honey in challenging environments, such as the wilderness. The results showed that honey is not only a safe but sometimes a superior alternative to current wound treatments. Its unique physiological properties make it a valuable wound care resource. The versatility of honey, as indicated in the results, also suggests potential usability in unique or difficult environments like wilderness scenarios. Even with the variability in wounds and wound environments considered, honey was consistently shown thanks to its inherent antiseptic and healing properties.