Manuka Honey Shows Potential in Fighting Breast Cancer

UCLA researchers uncover Manuka honey’s ability to reduce tumor growth without harming healthy cells.

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Scientists may have found an unexpected ally in the fight against breast cancer: Manuka honey.

A recent study suggests that this sweet substance reduced tumor growth by 84 percent in mouse models.

“The findings provide hope for development of a natural, less toxic alternative to traditional chemotherapy,” Dr. Diana Marquez-Garban, an associate professor in the Department of Medicine, at the University of California, Los Angeles, and lead author of the study, said in a press release.

Honey Reduced Tumor Growth by 84 Percent

The study, published in the journal Nutrients, examined the effects of Manuka honey on estrogen receptor-positive and negative breast cancer. The estrogen receptor (ER)-positive subtype currently accounts for 70 to 80 percent of all breast cancer cases.  Over the last two decades, breast cancer rates have surged in women under 50, primarily driven by cases of ER-positive breast cancer.

The research demonstrated the potential of Manuka honey as a nutraceutical—a food with medical or health benefits—in preclinical experiments using mouse and human models of the disease.

“Although more research is necessary to fully understand the benefits of natural compounds in cancer therapy, this study establishes a strong foundation for further exploration in this area,” Marquez-Garban said.

Disrupting Cancer Pathways

A key observation was that higher concentrations of Manuka honey were associated with greater reductions in cancer cell growth.

Researchers identified a potential mechanism of action, Manuka honey was shown to stop cancer cells from growing and surviving by blocking key pathways they use.

Manuka honey also demonstrated an ability to induce apoptosis (cell death) specifically in breast cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.

The researchers noted that Manuka’s composition—including flavonoids, phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals—may contribute to its anticancer potential, providing a multifaceted approach to inhibiting tumor growth and spread (metastasis).

The study also highlighted a synergistic effect when Manuka honey was used in conjunction with tamoxifen, a common antiestrogen medication for ER-positive breast cancer patients. This combination could potentially enhance outcomes for those experiencing resistance to standard breast cancer treatments.

Other Benefits

Besides cancer benefits, there are several other beneficial properties of Manuka honey, Stephanie Schiff, a registered dietician nutritionist at Huntington Hospital, a part of Northwell Health in New York, told The Epoch Times:

• Wound healing
• Pain reduction from burns
• Cough soothing
• Oral bacteria inhibition

Despite being a sugar source, research with rats suggests Manuka honey may benefit people with diabetes. This is possibly due to its high content of antioxidant flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help prevent oxidative stress in our bodies. However, Schiff added that research on Type 2 diabetes and Manuka honey is limited.

Manuka honey also contains high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a naturally occurring phytochemical with antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The phytochemical gives it a slightly bitter taste, “The more MGO it contains, the more bitter the honey is.” she said.

Who Should Avoid

Given individual differences, anyone considering Manuka honey for breast cancer treatment or prevention should have their blood sugar closely monitored and managed, Schiff said, noting that a continuous glucose monitor could facilitate this process.

According to Schiff, certain groups should avoid Manuka honey:

• People allergic to honey or bees
• Children younger than one-year-old (due to the risk of botulism)
• Individuals with compromised immune systems (unpasteurized or raw honey may be contraindicated)