Honey is a natural sweetener that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. In recent years, it has gained popularity as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments in dogs as well. Here are some potential benefits of honey for dogs, supported by scientific research:
Wound Healing: Honey has antimicrobial properties that can help to kill bacteria and promote the healing of wounds (Molan, 1999). It can be applied topically to cuts, scrapes, and burns to help speed up the healing process. In a study involving dogs with open wounds, honey treatment significantly reduced healing time and improved overall wound appearance (Bischofberger et al., 2016).
Allergy Relief: Some dog owners have reported that giving their pets honey has helped to alleviate allergy symptoms such as itching and sneezing (Jenkins & Vickers, 2012). This may be due to the fact that honey contains small amounts of pollen, which can help to build up a dog's tolerance to allergens.
Digestive Aid: Honey is a natural prebiotic, which means it can help to stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut (Eteraf-Oskouei & Najafi, 2013). This can be helpful for dogs with digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation.
Boosting the Immune System: Honey is a rich source of antioxidants, which can help to boost the immune system and protect against infections (Alvarez-Suarez et al., 2010).
References:
Alvarez-Suarez, J. M., Tulipani, S., Díaz, D., Estevez, Y., Romandini, S., Giampieri, F., ... & Battino, M. (2010). Antioxidant and antimicrobial capacity of several monofloral Cuban honeys and their correlation with color, polyphenol content and other chemical compounds. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 48(8-9), 2490-2499.
Bischofberger, A. S., Dart, C. M., Horadagoda, N., Perkins, N. R., Jeffcott, L. B., Little, C. B., ... & Dart, A. J. (2016). The effect of short- and long-term treatment with manuka honey on second intention healing of contaminated and noncontaminated wounds on the distal aspect of the forelimbs in horses. Veterinary Surgery, 45(2), 154-160.
Eteraf-Oskouei, T., & Najafi, M. (2013). Traditional and modern uses of natural honey in human diseases: A review. Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences, 16(6), 731-742.
Jenkins, R. E., & Vickers, A. (2012). Honey for the symptomatic relief of cough in children with upper respiratory tract infections. Evidence-Based Child Health: A Cochrane Review Journal, 7(4), 1075-1076.
Molan, P. C. (1999). Why honey is effective as a medicine. 1. Its use in modern medicine. Bee World, 80(2), 80-92.
