Honey can heal small burns

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The Claim: Honey Can Soothe a Burn.

By ANAHAD O’CONNOR

Published: February 19, 2008

THE FACTS

Times Health Guide: Burns

Home remedies for soothing mild burns run the gamut, from aloe vera gel to butter. Most that have been around for ages are clearly bad ideas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that applying butter or various popular ointments, for example, can increase the risk of infection. But at least one remedy, honey, has held up well.

In studies of quick and easy treatments to soothe mild burns, scientists have found that honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may promote healing. One study in 2006, examining results of more than a dozen previous studies, found that small, nonserious burns healed faster when treated with gauze and a dash of honey, on average, than those treated with antibiotic creams and other dressings. A separate report published earlier found similar results.

Medical doctors say the tried and true method for healing small burns remains applying a wet compress, immersing it in cool water and then covering the area with a sterile, nonadhesive bandage. But for those who prefer using natural remedies to soothe discomfort, honey may be a decent option.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Many home remedies for burns are unproved, but honey seems to soothe small burns.

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