The benefits of Manuka honey for cancer support: Exploring its role in modern integrative care

Manuka honey has long been valued for its antibacterial and healing properties, and growing research is now exploring the potential benefits of Manuka honey for cancer. While not a cure, it may offer complementary support during treatment and play a role in cancer prevention.

In this article, we explore what the science says about the connection between Manuka honey and cancer, particularly how this golden remedy may help ease certain treatment side effects and support overall wellbeing.

What makes Manuka honey unique?

Manuka honey is a monofloral honey produced by bees that pollinate the Leptospermum scoparium plant, commonly known as the Manuka bush, native to Australia and New Zealand. What sets it apart from regular honey is its high concentration of methylglyoxal (MGO), a naturally occurring compound linked to antibacterial and wound-healing activity.

Certified high-grade Manuka honey, has been tested and verified for its non-peroxide activity (NPA), making it a sought-after natural health product for those looking to support their immune systems or manage inflammatory conditions. It also contains other bioactive compounds like leptosperin, which contribute to its unique chemical fingerprint.

Unlike many processed honeys, Biosota’s Manuka honey is raw and harvested with minimal human interference to retain its naturally occurring enzymes, amino acids, and phenolic compounds. This contributes to its therapeutic potential and is one reason why it's often used in wellness protocols.

Manuka honey and cancer: What the research shows

1. May help mitigate treatment side effects

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can lead to a range of side effects, particularly oral mucositis - painful inflammation and ulceration in the mouth. Several studies have explored whether honey, and Manuka honey specifically, can help reduce these symptoms. 

Notably, research published in ScienceDirect and the National Library of Medicine suggests that consuming honey orally during radiotherapy can reduce the severity of oral mucositis. These findings indicate that, under medical supervision, Manuka honey could offer relief from some of the painful side effects of cancer treatment.

2. Antioxidant properties

Manuka honey is naturally rich in antioxidants, including phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which play a vital role in protecting the body from oxidative stress. 

Oxidative stress occurs when harmful free radicals outnumber the antioxidants in our system, creating an imbalance that can damage cells, proteins, and DNA. Over time, this damage contributes to chronic inflammation and increases the risk of serious health conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular, neurological, and respiratory diseases.

The antioxidants in Manuka honey—such as flavonoids and phenolic acids—help neutralise free radicals, reducing cellular damage and supporting overall health.

Because oxidative stress is known to contribute to the development and progression of cancer, incorporating natural antioxidants into your diet, like those found in Manuka honey, is considered an important part of broader cancer prevention strategies.

Building on this, emerging laboratory research suggests that Manuka honey’s antioxidant compounds may do more than just prevent damage—they may also play an active role in slowing cancer growth. Lab studies have shown that the polyphenols in Manuka honey can suppress the proliferation of various cancer cells in vitro, including breast, colorectal, and melanoma cells.

In one recent animal study, oral administration of Manuka honey led to an 84% reduction in tumour growth in mice with ER+ breast cancer, with no harm to healthy tissue or significant side effects.

Furthermore, a scientific review published in the National Library of Medicine suggests that honey may help fight cancer by affecting several important processes in the body—like stopping the growth of cancer cells, reducing inflammation, preventing cell damage, and triggering cancer cells to die naturally. 

3. Anti-inflammatory activity

In addition to its antioxidant effects, Manuka honey also offers powerful anti-inflammatory support. Chronic inflammation - a prolonged immune response triggered by factors such as infections, environmental toxins, autoimmune conditions, or poor diet - is increasingly being recognised as a contributor to cancer development and progression.

The flavonoids and other bioactive compounds found in Manuka honey are known to reduce inflammation by neutralising harmful molecules like superoxide radicals. In one study, daily supplementation with Manuka honey protected animals from oxidative damage over a 30-day period, highlighting its potential to reduce inflammation at the cellular level. 

By helping to regulate inflammation and reduce oxidative stress, Manuka honey may support the body’s natural defences during cancer treatment. While more research is needed, its anti-inflammatory properties may play a complementary role in managing treatment-related side effects and supporting overall resilience.

4. Supporting immunity and gut health

Manuka honey exhibits immunomodulatory and immunoprotective properties, supporting the immune system in multiple ways. It encourages the production of germ-fighting cytokines, promotes the movement of white blood cells to sites of infection or injury, and enhances antibody production to strengthen the body’s defences. 

These actions contribute to a more robust immune response, helping the body better combat infections and inflammation. This immune-boosting potential can be particularly valuable during cancer treatment and recovery, when the immune system is often under pressure.

In addition to its direct immune-supporting effects, Manuka honey may also support immunity indirectly by promoting gut health. A healthy gut microbiome plays a crucial role in immune function, but cancer treatments can often disrupt microbial balance. Known for its prebiotic properties, Manuka honey can help nourish beneficial gut bacteria and aid digestion.

Studies have shown that Manuka honey can stimulate the growth of probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium - bacteria known to support immune health. Maintaining a balanced microbiome can also help reduce inflammation, improve nutrient absorption, and support immune resilience throughout cancer care.

Manuka honey also exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, offering added protection when the immune system is weakened. It has been shown to inhibit harmful pathogens like Clostridium difficile and Escherichia coli (E. coli), which can become problematic during or after cancer treatment. These effects are driven by several complementary mechanisms:

• Methylglyoxal (MGO): A naturally occurring compound in Manuka honey that disrupts bacterial cell function and growth.
  

• Low pH and high osmolarity: The acidic environment and high sugar concentration in Manuka honey create conditions unfavourable for bacterial survival.
  

• Hydrogen peroxide production: Enzymatic activity in the honey generates hydrogen peroxide, contributing to its antimicrobial effects.
  
  
• Disruption of biofilms: Manuka honey can prevent and break down the protective biofilms that bacteria like C. difficile and E. coli form to resist antibiotics.
  
  

• Sporicidal activity: In the case of C. difficile, Manuka honey has been shown to inhibit the germination and spread of its resilient spores - adding another layer of potential support in managing infections.

These combined gut-supportive, antimicrobial, and immune-modulating properties make Manuka honey a beneficial natural ally during cancer treatment. By helping to stabilise the microbiome, reduce harmful bacteria, and strengthen immune function, it offers gentle yet meaningful support for overall well being - especially when the body is under strain.

While not a standalone treatment, incorporating high-quality Manuka honey into a broader care plan may aid in recovery, comfort, and digestive health throughout the cancer journey.

5. Chemoprotective support

Cisplatin chemotherapy can harm healthy cells, potentially causing organ damage, relapses, and drug resistance. In animal studies, Manuka honey given alongside cisplatin protected the liver and kidneys by reducing toxicity, boosting protective proteins, and combating oxidative stress.

Its wound‑healing qualities have also helped soothe radiation and chemotherapy-induced ulcers and mucositis, offering pain relief and potentially reducing opioid use - although more clinical research is needed to confirm these benefits for patients.

6. Chemosensitisation function

Manuka honey’s bioactive compounds have shown the ability to sensitise cancer cells to chemotherapy in preclinical studies - enhancing the effects of drugs like 5‑FU in colon cancer, tamoxifen in ER+ breast cancer, and chemo agents in melanoma. While promising, these findings are from lab and animal models; clinical trials are needed to confirm Manuka honey benefits for patients.

Can Manuka honey help prevent cancer?

The idea that Manuka honey could prevent cancer is based on its ability to reduce chronic inflammation and oxidative stress—two key contributors to DNA damage and tumour formation.

Manuka honey’s rich antioxidant profile, including flavonoids like pinocembrin and chrysin, may help protect cells from mutation and reduce cellular damage over time. These compounds are currently being studied for their chemopreventive potential.

While early laboratory research shows potential anti-tumour activity in Manuka honey, it’s important to emphasise that it should not be seen as a preventative treatment on its own. Instead, it may serve as one part of a broader health and wellness routine that includes a nutrient-rich diet, physical activity, stress management, and medical screening.

There is no conclusive evidence yet from long-term human studies proving that Manuka honey directly reduces cancer risk. However, incorporating it into a healthy lifestyle may offer additional antioxidant support and immune system benefits.

How to use Manuka honey during cancer care

If you or a loved one is undergoing cancer treatment, Manuka honey can be used as a nutritional and supportive aid in the following ways:

• To help soothe or prevent mouth soreness during cancer treatment: clinical studies have patients gently swish and swallow about 5 mL of Manuka honey four times a day (before meals). This has shown reduced mucositis severity compared with standard care.
  
  

• Supporting digestion: Stir a spoonful of Manuka honey into warm (not hot) water or herbal tea as a gentle, soothing way to support gut health - especially during times of nausea, reduced appetite, or digestive discomfort during cancer treatment.
  
  

• Topical healing: Apply to small radiation burns or irritated skin (always consult your oncologist before applying any substance topically).
  
  
• Daily wellness: Consume 1–2 teaspoons daily as part of a nutrient-rich diet to support immunity and energy.

Patients may also incorporate Manuka honey into smoothies, porridge, or yoghurt if you have a reduced appetite or experience difficulty eating during treatment. Its naturally sweet taste and smooth texture make it an easy and comforting addition to a cancer care nutrition plan.

* Important: Always speak to your healthcare provider before adding any supplement - including Manuka honey - to your cancer care plan.

Choosing the right Manuka honey

Not all Manuka honey is created equal. When selecting a product, look for:

• Certified MGO content: Indicates the concentration of methylglyoxal, which drives the honey’s bioactivity.

• Organic certification: Ensures it’s free from pesticides and additives, important for people with weakened immunity.

• Third-party lab testing: Confirms authenticity, potency, and safety.

Premium-grade Manuka honey, especially those above MGO 1200+, tends to have stronger therapeutic potential and is better suited for those with higher support needs.

At Biosota Organics, we proudly produce Australian Certified Organic Manuka honey in our MGO 1200+ range, offering one of the highest certified-potency organic options available.

For those seeking even greater strength, our pure, independently tested Manuka honey reaches up to MGO 2200+ - sustainably sourced and trusted by customers managing more intensive health challenges, including during cancer treatment.

While our higher MGO varieties are not certified organic, they are held to the same high standards of purity, safety, and therapeutic value.

We also maintain transparency by providing Certificates of Authenticity and detailed product information, so consumers can trust the purity and strength of what you're buying.

Where the benefits of Manuka honey fit into cancer care

While research is still ongoing, Manuka honey shows promise as a natural, supportive remedy for those navigating the challenges of cancer and its treatment. Its soothing, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties make it a gentle and nourishing addition to a wellness routine.

Whether used to relieve oral discomfort, support digestion, or simply add a boost of natural antioxidants to the diet, Manuka honey is a versatile ally during a difficult journey.

As always, any use of natural products during cancer treatment should be discussed with your healthcare provider to ensure it complements your medical plan safely.

Explore our range of Manuka honey here and discover natural wellness support from the heart of Australia.

Disclaimer: Statements made have not been evaluated by the TGA (Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration) or FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration). Products sold are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Manuka honey is not intended to be a substitute for other medicines or advice and is best used in conjunction with any existing treatment plans. Please consult your healthcare professional before beginning any treatment. For all of the science-backed and evidence-based information on the natural healing properties of medicinal-grade Manuka honey, please refer to the latest published Manuka Honey research and use at your own discretion.