Effects of Three Types of Honey on Cutaneous Wound Healing

Abstract

Aim. To evaluate the effects of three types of honey (chestnut, blossom, and rhododendron) on the healing of full-thickness wounds. Methods. Twenty-four (24) New Zealand White female rabbits were used. Four 1.5 cm x 1.5 cm full-thickness skin wounds were created on the back of each animal and treated with pure honey or sterile saline, respectively. Wounds were assessed by wound measurements and collection of samples at 7, 14, and 21 days post wounding to evaluate the healing process. Variables of interest were hydroxyproline concentration and gross and microscopic morphological characteristics reflective of wound healing. Wounds of the honey-treated groups healed much faster than the control group. Results. On day 7, the formation of granulation tissue, epithelization, angiogenesis, and fibroplasia levels increased in the honey-treated groups (P < 0.05). A statistical difference between the honeys was not detected. Conclusion. The present results suggest that honey accelerates the inflammatory reaction and initiates healing early on in the treatment process.