Medical-grade honey as an antimicrobial agent against Helicobacter pylori: A review of current evidence

Honey, a natural product of apian biology, has been recognized for its medicinal properties for centuries. The bioactive compounds present in honey, particularly those found in mono-floral varieties, exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. These properties have been demonstrated to synergistically interact, allowing honey to effectively combat a range of microorganisms, including multidrug-resistant bacteria. This review focuses on the antimicrobial properties of medical-grade honey, with a specific emphasis on its potential to inhibit the growth and gene expression of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium responsible for gastric ulcers and gastric cancer.