Harnessing Manuka Honey: A Natural Remedy for Accelerated Burn Wound Healing in a Porcine Model

Burn injuries present significant medical challenges due to their complexity in healing and potential for severe scarring. This study evaluates the efficacy of Manuka honey in accelerating burn wound healing and minimizing scar formation compared to conven-tional antibiotic ointments. Using a porcine model resembling human skin, nine Landrace breed female pigs with standardized deep dermal burns were treated with either Manuka honey in alginate or a combination of antibiotic ointment.Wound healing was assessed through macroscopic evaluation, histopathological analysis, and immuno-histochemical staining over a 60-day period. Our findings reveal that Manuka honey significantly accelerates reepithelialization, enhances epidermal regeneration, and re-duces the time to complete wound closure. Histopathological evaluation showed superior dermal reconstruction with Manuka honey, increased collagen density, and horizontally oriented fibres, indicating better-quality scar tissue. Immunohistochemical analysis showed lower macrophage activity and higher cell proliferative activity (Ki67 staining) in the Manuka honey group, contributing to faster healing.The control group exhibited delayed epithelialization, higher inflammation, and less organized collagen structure, leading to poorer healing outcomes. This study highlights Manuka honey as a promising treatment for burns, offering accelerated healing and improved scar aesthetics. Integration into clinical practice could enhance patient recovery and reduce the burden of burn injuries.